The sacred Ganga Dussehra was observed at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, readings, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, recital of the Ganga Chalisa and a beautiful video which extolled the grandeur, beauty, prowess and divine qualities of Mother Ganga.
Sri Swami Sivananda says the following about Ganga Dussehra in his book Mother Ganga, “Taking Her course into the interior of the Himalayas, Ganga was about to wash away Rishi Jahnu’s Ashram. Sage Jahnu was naturally more powerful than Her and simply sipped the water. Bhagiratha was much disappointed. He did severe penance again to please Rishi Jahnu. At last, the sage let Ganga through his ears. Flowing from this outlet, Ganga flowed with entire modesty and all-embracing filial love and motherly affection. By Her Divine Grace, She uplifted all the sixty thousand princes to the highest abode of immortal bliss. This day is celebrated as the most sanctifying Ganga Dussehra”.
Referring to the purity of the Ganga water, Sri Swami Sivananda said, “The water of the Ganges is extremely pure and sanctifying. No germs can flourish in it. This has been tested by various scientists in their laboratories. Rich in minerals, Ganga water cures all kinds of diseases.
“The Ganges is saturated with antiseptic minerals. Even in the West, doctors prescribe Ganges water for rubbing, in the treatment of diseases of the skin. Ganges is not merely a river, but a sacred place. It is possessed of mysterious powers which are not found in any other river in the world. Even scientists have admitted the efficacy of the water”.
The melodious Ganga Chalisa that was recited, is a revered forty-verse devotional hymn that glorifies Mother Ganga as the embodiment of purity, compassion and divine grace. It recounts the sacred descent of the heavenly river to earth through the blessings of Lord Shiva and the penance of King Bhagiratha, symbolising the triumph of devotion and spiritual perseverance. The Ganga Chalisa also teaches that Mother Ganga not only cleanses physical impurities but also purifies the mind and soul, freeing devotees from negative Karma and worldly suffering. Its recitation brings peace, protection, spiritual upliftment, and ultimately Moksha — liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The Chalisa also conveys a timeless message of reverence for nature, reminding humanity to honour rivers and the environment as sacred manifestations of the Divine.
Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message focused on faith and self-surrender as the bases of spiritual development. He said, “…we in the Divine Life Society who are the disciples of Gurudev should never live in the sense of fear or insecurity, because we have God by our sides, and we have our Master by our sides…”. Examples of how Sri Gurudev protects us are clearly available. He said that the Guru is a super human being. Satsang, diet and surrender are important in spiritual development. We should pay off our past Karma and not create new Karma. The Guru can ward off one’s Karma. We should surrender and have absolute faith in the Guru. Satsang and Sadhana are paramount.
Ganga Dussehra reminds modern humanity of the importance of spiritual purity, moral living and harmony with nature. The festival symbolises the descent of Divine Grace through the sacred River Ganga, teaching that true cleansing is both inner and outer. In today’s stressful and materialistic world, it encourages people to overcome anger, greed and selfishness through prayer, devotion and selfless service. Ultimately, Ganga Dussehra teaches that Sadhana, spiritual wisdom, compassion and self-transformation are essential for lasting peace and enlightenment.
