In Hinduism, the Ganges River is revered as Mother Ganga, symbolizing life and purity, far beyond its status as a mere river. Ganga Dussehra is a highly significant Hindu festival celebrating the auspicious descent of Mother Ganga to Earth. Bathing in and making charitable donations to the Ganges River on this day holds special importance, as it is believed that every act of piety performed is doubled in merit, washing away all sins.
Ganga Dussehra 2025: Date and Time
Ganga Dussehra is celebrated annually on the Dashami Tithi (tenth day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Jyeshtha month. This marks the day of Mother Ganga's arrival on Earth. According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), in 2025, this date falls on June 5th. The Dashami Tithi begins at 11:54 PM on June 4th and concludes at 2:15 AM on June 6th. Therefore, Ganga Dussehra will be observed on June 5th this year with full religious rituals.
The timing of bathing and charitable giving on this day is also crucial. Brahma Muhurta, the auspicious pre-dawn time, is considered ideal for Ganga Dussehra rituals, lasting until 4:07 AM. Additionally, the Siddhi Yoga, auspicious for all religious activities, prevails until 9:14 AM.
Religious Significance of Ganga Dussehra
Mother Ganga's descent to Earth is recorded in our religion as a divine tale. Legend says that the river flowed from heaven to Earth due to King Bhagiratha's intense penance and faith. To bear the immense force of the Ganga's current, Lord Shiva himself held the river in his matted locks. This is why the Ganges is also known as Shiva's river.
Ganga Dussehra commemorates the collaborative efforts of Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga for humanity's salvation. Bathing in the Ganges on this day is believed to purify one's soul, eradicating sins and fostering spiritual growth. Charitable acts performed on Ganga Dussehra are believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and good health.
Importance of Bathing and Charity on Ganga Dussehra
Bathing in the Ganges River on Ganga Dussehra is considered extremely auspicious, purifying both body and soul. The Ganges water is believed to be imbued with purity and spiritual power, protecting individuals from evil spirits and negativity. This bath is considered a source of immeasurable merit.
Similarly, charity on Ganga Dussehra is highly meritorious. Giving food, clothing, money, or other necessities to the needy purifies one's karma. It is believed that charity earns the blessings of both Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga, removing obstacles from life. Charity reduces sins and promotes good fortune.
Mantras for Ganga Dussehra 2025
Chanting the following mantras while bathing in the Ganges on this sacred day is considered auspicious:
Mantra for bathing in the Ganges:
'Om Namo Gangayai Vishvarupini Narayanai Namo Namah'
Mantra for the blessings of all rivers:
'Gange cha Yamune chaiva Godavari Saraswati |
Narmade Sindhu Kaveri Jalasmin Sanidhim Kuru||'
Special mantra for purifying and focusing the mind:
'Om Namo Bhagavati Hili Hili Mili Mili Gange Maa Pavaya Pavaya Swaha'
Ganga Dussehra Puja Vidhi (Rituals)
After bathing, offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga using Ganges water.
- Begin the day with a sacred bath: Wake up early, bathe, and if possible, bathe in the Ganges or another sacred river. Meditate on Mother Ganga and mentally offer your respects.
- Worship Mother Ganga and Lord Shiva: After bathing, place an image or statue of Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga in a clean area. Offer Ganges water with flowers, akshat (unbroken rice grains), and roli (vermilion) to Mother Ganga. This water can also be poured into a river or a pot.
- Perform abhisheka (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam: Perform abhisheka of the Shiva Lingam using Ganges water, milk, honey, and Bilva leaves. Chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' during the abhisheka. This purifies the mind and brings Shiva's blessings.
- Perform bhajans (devotional songs) and stotras (hymns): After the puja, sing hymns in praise of Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga. Chant mantras like 'Om Namo Gangayai Namah' and 'Om Namah Shivaya'. Perform devotional singing to create a sacred and peaceful atmosphere.
- Give to the needy: Charity is very important on Ganga Dussehra. Donate food, clothing, water vessels, umbrellas, or money to the poor and needy. This brings merit and removes life's obstacles.
- Light a lamp and pray for blessings: Finally, light a ghee lamp and pray to Lord Shiva and Mother Ganga for happiness, peace, health, and prosperity in your life. Offer your respects and ask for blessings to fulfill your desires.
Ganga Dussehra 2025 connects us to our religion, culture, and traditions. This day is crucial for spiritual purification, sanctity, and merit. By bathing in the Ganges, performing puja, and giving charity, we can bring happiness, prosperity, and health into our lives.
