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Ganga Dussehra
The Ganga, largest of India ’s rivers and the most sacred to Hindus, holds a unique place in Indian consciousness. Regarded as a celestial river originating in the heavens, she is worshipped as the mother who washes away all the sins of mankind. Ganga Dussehra, held over the first 10 days of the month of Jyeshtha (in June), celebrates Gangavataran - the descent of the Ganga to earth. During the festival, devotees flock to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Garh-Mukteshwar, Prayag, and Varanasi to meditate and take a holy dip. They take the river clay home to worship. In Haridwar, Uttar Pradesh, aartis (prayer songs) are performed at twilight each evening.