Ganga

Ganga is the goddess of the sacred river, worshipped in Hinduism as the purifier of sins. According to the Puranas, when the river descended from heaven through the penance of Bhagiratha, its mighty force was caught in Shiva's matted locks and released gradually onto the earth; hence she is also called Bhagirathi. Bathing in the Ganga is regarded among the greatest meritorious acts of life, and Ganga water is used as a symbol of purity and cleansing. Ganga Saptami, Ganga Dussehra, and the Kumbh Mela are her principal festivals.