Ganga Saptami 2024, also known as Ganga Jayanti, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated to mark the descent of the holy river Ganga on Earth. The day occurs in the Hindu month of Vaisakha on the seventh day, or Sattami, of the Shukla Paksha.
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The Ganga is often referred to as “Ganga Mata” (Mother Ganga) and is worshipped as a goddess in Hinduism. It is believed that the river descended from the heavens to Earth to cleanse the souls of humans. The Ganga is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and epics, further emphasizing its spiritual importance.
The Ganga River basin is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. However, pollution and unsustainable human activities pose significant threats to the health of the river and its ecosystem. Efforts are underway to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga through initiatives such as the Namami Gange project.
The water of the Ganga is believed to possess purifying properties. Bathing in the Ganges is considered highly auspicious and is believed to cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul. It is common for Hindus to immerse the ashes of their deceased loved ones in the Ganga, as it is believed to facilitate their journey to the afterlife.Here’s all you need to know about it:
Ganga Saptami 2024 Significance
Ganga Saptami falls on the seventh day (Saptami) of the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha. It is believed that on this day, the sacred river Ganga descended from the heavens to the Earth. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the Ganges on this day can wash away sins and purify the soul.
According to Drik Panchang, on Vaishakha Shukla Paksha’s Saptami, Jahnu Rishi freed Ganga from his ear. Because of this, Jahnu Saptami is another name for the day. Jahnavi, the daughter of Rishi Jahnu, is another name for Ganga. People worship Goddess Ganga on this auspicious day. This is an extremely good day to take a bath in the Ganges. In addition, special puja ceremonies are held at Triveni Sangam, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
Ganga Saptami 2024 Rituals and Observances
Devotees wake up early and take a ritual bath in the Ganges or any nearby river, if possible. This act is considered highly auspicious and is believed to cleanse the soul of impurities.Offerings are made to the river Ganga in the form of flowers, fruits, and lamps.
Many devotees observe a fast on this day and perform special prayers and rituals dedicated to the river goddess.Some people also visit temples dedicated to Goddess Ganga and participate in special puja ceremonies.Reciting Ganga Stotram or chanting the Ganga Mantra is also a common practice among devotees.
Ganga Saptami 2024 Muhurat
Drik Panchang reports that today’s Ganga Saptami Madhyahna Muhurat will last for two hours and forty-three minutes, or from 10:56 am to 1:39 pm. May 14 at 2.50 am is when the Saptami tithi started, and it ends on May 15 at 4.19 am.
The auspicious timing for performing rituals and prayers on Ganga Saptami varies depending on the location and prevailing astrological conditions. Priests and astrologers often provide specific timings for performing rituals and taking the holy dip.
The Ganga River is an integral part of Indian culture and heritage. It has inspired countless poets, artists, and musicians over the centuries. The river is often depicted in Indian art and literature as a symbol of purity, spirituality, and fertility.
Ganga Saptami is an occasion for spiritual renewal and connection with the divine. It reminds us of the sacredness of water and the importance of preserving our natural resources.
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