Bhagirathi Jayanthi

🌊 What is Bhagirathi Jayanti?

Bhagirathi Jayanti marks the descent of Ganga Devi to Earth, due to the severe penance of King Bhagiratha.

This divine event is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya (3rd day of waxing moon) in the Jyeshtha month, also known as Jyeshtha Shuddha Tritiya.

It usually falls in May or June.

🛕 Observance in the Madhwa Community:

1. Worship of Ganga Devi:

Devotees offer prayers to Ganga Devi, recognizing her as a sacred river and divine energy, who purifies and uplifts all souls by her touch.

In some homes, water is symbolically worshipped, especially if living far from the actual Ganga river.

2. Vishnu Sarvottamatva Emphasis:

As per Madhwa philosophy, all devatas, including Ganga Devi, are servants of Lord Vishnu.

So, Lord Vishnu is worshipped first, and then homage is paid to Ganga Devi.

3. Reading or listening to Bhagiratha’s story:

The story of King Bhagiratha’s tapasya and Ganga’s descent to liberate his ancestors is read or recalled.

This aligns with the importance of shraddha and pitru seva, core values in Tatvavada.

4. Special Snana (Holy Bath) and Dana:

Devotees perform snana (ritual bath) in rivers, wells, or at home using sanctified water.

Giving charity (daan) – especially of water, clothes, and food – is considered meritorious.

5. Fasting and Satvika Bhojana:

Some observe upavasa (fasting) or consume simple food.

Meals offered on this day are pure, sattvic, and dedicated to the deities.

📝 Madhwa View on Ganga Devi:

According to Madhwa philosophy, Ganga Devi is a jiva with guna-bheda (qualitative difference) from the Supreme.

She is not equal to Vishnu, but is a powerful, divine servant of the Lord, carrying His blessings.