Ganga Saptami or Ganga Pujan is a day dedicated to Goddess Ganga. This day is also known as Ganga Jayanti because it is believed that Ganga was reborn on this day.
Hindu Mythology says that Ganga was descended to the Earth on Ganga Dussehra day. When the mighty Ganga descended to the Earth, Lord Shiva kept her in His hairs to avoid Ganga wiping the entire Earth away. Later Lord Shiva released Ganga to enable her accomplish her mission to expel the cursed souls of Bhagiratha’s ancestors.
On her way to the kingdom of Bhagiratha, the mighty flow of Ganga water destroyed sage Jahnu’s Ashram. Sage Jahnu became angry and he drank up the entire water of Ganga. Then, Bhagiratha and the Gods prayed to Sage Jahnu to release Ganga so that she could complete her mission. Pleased with their prayers, the Sage released Ganga from his ear.
Legend says that Sage Jahnu released Ganga from his ear on Shukla Paksha Saptami of Vaishakha and hence this day is known as Jahnu Saptami. Ganga is also known as Jahnavi, which means the daughter of Rishi Jahnu.
On Ganga Saptami day, devotees take holy dip in river Ganges and worship Goddess Ganga. A holy bath in Ganges on Ganga Saptami day is considered highly auspicious.