Ganga Dussehra 2026

Significance of Ganga Dussehra

Considered one of the most important snan-parvas (bathing festivals) of the year, second only to Maha Kumbh and Magh Purnima at the sangam. Bathing in the Ganga today is said to liberate the bather and seven generations of ancestors. Donations of ten items (water pots, fans, fruits, sesame, jaggery, sandal, salt, white cloth, gold and silver) are traditionally made.

History & Mythology of Ganga Dussehra

Ganga Dussehra — sometimes spelled Ganga Dasahara — commemorates the descent of the holy river Ganga from the heavens to the earth, fulfilling King Bhagiratha's centuries-long penance to liberate the souls of his ancestors. The descent occurred on the Dashami tithi of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha, with Lord Shiva catching the river in his matted hair to spare the earth from her cosmic force. The 'Dussehra' in the name refers to the ten (dasha) sins or evils — taking ten ritual dips today is said to wash them all away.

Presiding Deity: Ma Ganga, Bhagiratha

Ganga Dussehra Puja Vidhi & Rituals

1. 1

   Take ten ritual dips in the Ganga at the prescribed muhurat — chanting Ganga's name with each dip.

2. 2

   Donate the 'Dasha Daan' — ten items: water pot, fan, fruits, sesame, jaggery, sandalwood, salt, white cloth, gold and silver (in any quantity).

3. 3

   Recite the Ganga Stotra ten times or perform the Ganga Sahasranama parayana.

4. 4

   Light ten lamps (deepa daan) on the riverbank at dusk and float them on the Ganga.

5. 5

   Perform Pitru Tarpan and Pind Daan for departed ancestors — especially powerful at Haridwar and Gaya.

Frequently Asked Questions

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