Ganga Dussehra 2025 Date and Time: Why is Ganga Dussehra celebrated?

Ganga Dussehra, also known as Gangavataran, marks the divine descent of the holy river Ganga to Earth. Celebrated on the Dashami Tithi of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha, this festival usually falls in late May or early June. In 2025, Ganga Dussehra will be observed on June 5, a day before Nirjala Ekadashi.

This sacred occasion commemorates the arrival of Goddess Ganga on Earth to purify the souls of King Bhagiratha’s ancestors, who were cursed. According to Hindu belief, before descending to Earth, Maa Ganga resided in Lord Brahma’s kamandal (holy pot), carrying the spiritual purity of the heavens with her.

Ganga Dussehra 2025 Date and Time

Why is Ganga Dussehra Celebrated?

The story of Ganga Dussehra is deeply rooted in the legend of King Bhagiratha, whose intense penance brought Ganga from heaven to Earth. The river’s holy waters washed away the sins and curses of his forefathers, granting them salvation. Hence, this festival is celebrated in honour of her purifying powers.

Ganga Dussehra Rituals 

On this auspicious day, devotees take a holy dip—Ganga Snan—in the sacred river, especially at revered locations like:

• Varanasi (Kashi)


• Haridwar


• Rishikesh


• Prayagraj (Allahabad)


• Garhmukteshwar

A bath in the Ganges on Ganga Dussehra is said to cleanse one of all sins. People also perform Dan-Punya (charitable deeds), believing it multiplies the merit of their good actions. In Varanasi, grand celebrations unfold at Dasaswamedh Ghat, where thousands gather to participate in the famous Ganga Aarti, creating a powerful and devotional atmosphere.