Uttarkashi witnessed an atmosphere of deep reverence and enthusiasm as devotees celebrated Ganga Dussehra with special prayers and rituals dedicated to Mother Ganga. The festivities extended across the district, including the revered Gangotri Dham.
Procession at Gangotri Dham
At Gangotri Dham, a beautifully crafted idol of King Bhagirath was ceremoniously placed in a decorated palanquin. On Monday, following time-honored customs, pilgrim priests led a vibrant procession through the Dham. Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional Dhol-Damau and other indigenous musical instruments, the procession saw enthusiastic participation from local residents and visiting devotees.
Rituals at the Ganga Ghat
The idol and palanquin were taken to the Ganga Ghat, where priests performed special worship of the sacred river on behalf of King Bhagirath. The rituals included chanting of the Ganga Lahari, recitation of the Sahasranama, and other traditional prayers.
Devotees Take Holy Dips
The temple premises and local markets remained bustling throughout the day as devotees took holy dips in the river, praying for happiness and prosperity. Sudhanshu Semwal and Badri Prasad Semwal, pilgrim priests at Gangotri Dham, explained: “On Ganga Dussehra, Mother Ganga descended from heaven to earth at Gangotri Dham, following severe penance by King Bhagirath to purify his ancestors’ ashes. To mark this, an idol of the king is prepared here every year, and symbolic worship of the river is performed on his behalf according to prescribed Vedic rituals.”
Celebrations Across the Region
The celebrations extended beyond Gangotri. In Barahat region, the deity Kandhar Devta was taken for a holy dip at Yamunotri Dham. Meanwhile, Hari Maharaj of Baragaddi bathed in the sacred waters of Dodital Lake, praying for the well-being and prosperity of the region.
District Headquarters Events
At the district headquarters, recitation of the Ganga Lahari was followed by a havan (sacred fire ritual) and prayers. The day culminated in a grand aarti at the Ganga Ghat, attended by pilgrims from across the country and abroad.
