Ganga Dussehra 2026 Date: The auspicious festival of Ganga Dussehra is celebrated every year on the *Dashami* (tenth day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) during the month of *Jyeshtha*. However, in years when an *Adhikmas* (intercalary month) occurs within the month of *Jyeshtha*, the *Dashami* of the *Shukla Paksha* within that *Adhikmas* is the one observed. Bathing in the holy Ganges on this day holds special significance; it is believed to wash away all sins and lead to the accumulation of spiritual merit (*Punya*). Furthermore, performing an *Abhishek* (ritual bathing) of Lord Shiva using holy Ganges water on this day is said to invoke the grace of *Mahadev* (Lord Shiva), potentially leading to the fulfillment of one's wishes. Since Ganga Dussehra falls during the month of *Jyeshtha*, it is also referred to as *Jyeshtha* or *Jeth* Dussehra. As it was on the *Jyeshtha Shukla Dashami* that Mother Ganga descended upon the Earth, this day is celebrated as *Ganga Avataran Diwas* (the Day of Ganga's Descent). Let us discover when Ganga Dussehra falls this year, and explore its auspicious timings (*Muhurat*) and significance.

When is Ganga Dussehra in 2026?
This year, an *Adhikmas* (intercalary month) is occurring within the month of *Jyeshtha*. Consequently, to determine the precise date for Ganga Dussehra, one must identify the *Dashami* of the *Shukla Paksha* within this *Jyeshtha Adhikmas*. To do this, one must consult the *Panchang* (traditional Hindu almanac). According to the Vedic *Panchang*, the *Shukla Dashami* of the *Jyeshtha Adhikmas* begins on May 25th at 04:30 AM and continues until 05:10 AM on May 26th. Since the calculation for Ganga Dussehra is based on the *Udayatithi* (the date prevailing at sunrise), Ganga Dussehra falls on Monday, May 25th.

Ganga Dussehra 2026 Auspicious Timings (*Muhurat*)

Whether it is Ganga Dussehra or any other festival involving ritual bathing, the *Brahma Muhurat* is considered the most auspicious time. On Ganga Dussehra, the *Brahma Muhurat* spans from 04:04 AM to 04:45 AM. It is highly meritorious to perform one's holy bath during this specific *Muhurat*; however, if that is not possible, one may also bathe after sunrise. On Ganga Dussehra, the time of sunrise is 05:26 AM.

The most auspicious period of the day—known as the *Abhijit Muhurat*—on Ganga Dussehra runs from 11:51 AM to 12:46 PM. On that day, the *Sandhya* (twilight) period extends from 4:24 AM to 5:26 AM. On Ganga Dussehra, in addition to ritual bathing and acts of charity, it is customary to worship Lord Shiva using holy water from the Ganges (*Gangajal*).

Furthermore, the *Amrit* (most auspicious) *Muhurat* on Ganga Dussehra falls between 5:26 AM and 7:09 AM. Additionally, the *Shubh* (auspicious) *Muhurat* of the day is observed from 8:52 AM to 10:35 AM.

**Ganga Dussehra during *Ravi Yoga***

This year, Ganga Dussehra coincides with the formation of *Ravi Yoga*. This *Yoga* will remain in effect throughout the entire day. During *Ravi Yoga*, all types of astrological afflictions (*doshas*) are nullified, as the influence of the Sun—the King of Planets—is particularly potent during this period. Consequently, the ritual bathing, charitable acts, and worship associated with Ganga Dussehra will all be performed during this auspicious *Ravi Yoga*.

On this day, *Vajra Yoga* prevails from dawn until 3:15 AM on May 26th. Similarly, the *Uttara Phalguni* *Nakshatra* (lunar mansion) is also active from dawn until 4:08 AM on May 26th.

**The Significance of Ganga Dussehra**

According to mythological legends, the 60,000 sons of King Sagara were unable to attain salvation (*Moksha*) due to a curse cast upon them by Sage Kapila. Later, King Bhagiratha—a descendant of King Sagara—resolved to bring the holy river Ganges down to Earth in order to liberate his ancestors. He believed that only through the touch of the Ganges could they be absolved of their sins and attain salvation.

Through years of rigorous penance and asceticism, King Bhagiratha pleased Lord Brahma and successfully brought the Ganges down to the mortal realm. On the tenth day (*Dashami*) of the waxing moon phase (*Shukla Paksha*) in the month of *Jyeshtha*, Mother Ganges descended upon the Earth. The mere touch of her waters washed away the sins of King Sagara's 60,000 sons, granting them eternal salvation. Since that time, bathing in the Ganges has been revered as a sacred means to attain liberation from sins and achieve salvation.

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