Prayagraj/Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Devotees in large numbers gathered at the banks of the Ganga River in Prayagraj and Varanasi on Wednesday to mark the holy festival of Ganga Dussehra, a significant occasion in the Hindu calendar that commemorates the descent of the sacred river to Earth.
In Prayagraj, thousands of pilgrims arrived at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, from early morning. Devotees offered prayers, performed rituals, and took the traditional holy dip, believed to purify the soul and absolve sins. Religious hymns and chants echoed along the ghats, while priests conducted special aarti ceremonies. Several NGOs and local administration volunteers were seen assisting the pilgrims in maintaining order and cleanliness.
Simultaneously, Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a major center of Hindu spirituality, witnessed a sea of devotees at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Worshippers took ritualistic dips and participated in prayers, offering flowers and lamps to the river. The Ganga Aarti, held in the evening, was a highlight of the day, drawing both locals and tourists to the ghats. Local authorities deployed police and sanitation workers to manage the crowd and ensure the smooth conduct of events.
Ganga Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. According to Hindu belief, it marks the day when the River Ganga descended from heaven to earth. Taking a dip in the Ganga on this day is said to wash away ten types of sins. In addition to religious significance, the day also emphasizes the importance of river conservation and ecological responsibility.
Religious scholars and temple authorities highlighted the spiritual importance of the festival and called upon the public to preserve the sanctity of the river. “This is not only a religious celebration but also a reminder of our responsibility to keep the Ganga clean,” said Acharya Ram Narayan, a local priest in Varanasi.
Local vendors set up stalls selling offerings, sweets, and devotional items, adding to the festive atmosphere. Many pilgrims also visited nearby temples, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Hanuman Temple in Prayagraj, as part of their spiritual journey.
The state government had made elaborate arrangements to accommodate the large crowds, including health camps, water kiosks, mobile toilets, and first-aid services. No untoward incidents were reported, and the event remained peaceful throughout the day.
The twin celebrations in Prayagraj and Varanasi not only demonstrated the deep-rooted cultural reverence for the Ganga but also brought communities together in a collective expression of faith and devotion.
