Ganga Dussehra 2023: Date, Time, Historical Significance and Rituals

Ganga Dussehra: According to the Hindu calendar, Ganga Dussehra, an important festival worshiping Goddess Ganga, is celebrated on the tenth tithi (Dashami Tithi) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Jayeshtha. This day usually falls in May or June according to the Gregorian calendar.

This joyous celebration honors Ganga’s entry into the earth. Notably, Nirjala Ekadashi is celebrated one day after Ganga Dussehra, although sometimes both holidays fall on the same day.

Ganga Dussehra 2023: Date

Gangavataran, which signifies the descent of the Ganga, is another name for Ganga Dussehra. This year Ganga Dussehra will be celebrated on 30 May 2023 Tuesday.

Ganga Dussehra 2023: Timing (Tithi)

Commencement of Dashami Tithi – May 29, 2023 at 11:49 AM

Dashami Tithi ends – May 30, 2023 at 01:07 PM

Start of Hasta Nakshatra – May 30, 2023 at 04:29 AM

End of Hasta Nakshatra – May 31, 2023 at 06:00 AM

Ganga Dussehra: History

Hindu mythology tells that King Bhagiratha prayed to Lord Brahma and fasted fervently to send down the heavenly river Ganga to earth. His efforts were motivated by his desire to free the souls of his ancestors from the curse given by sage Kapila.
Bhagiratha’s dedication was praised by Lord Brahma, who requested Lord Shiva to take the great Ganga in his entwined hair and release her gently on earth. Thus, Ganga Dussehra commemorates the occasion when the holy river Ganges flowed from the sky to wash away the sins of mankind.

Ganga Dussehra: Rituals

Devotees rise early on Ganga Dussehra, bathe in the holy Ganga, and recite the Ganga Stotra. In the evening, they perform Ganga Aarti and offer flowers, lamps, betel leaves, fruits and sweets to the holy river. They also donate to the needy. Apart from this, devotees meditate on the banks of the river.

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