Imagine witnessing thousands of devotees chanting, praying, and offering fire to the holy river Ganga as the sun sets over the Himalayas. This is the Ganga Aarti in Haridwar, one of the most spectacular and spiritual experiences in India. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Ganga Aarti in Haridwar, from its history and importance to its timings and location. We will also give you some tips and guidelines for making the most of this unforgettable experience.
What is Ganga Aarti?
Ganga Aarti is a religious ceremony of worshipping the river Ganga with fire, flowers, incense, and songs. The word “aarti” means “an act of showing reverence” and the word “Ganga” refers to the sacred river that flows through India and is considered the mother of all living beings. Ganga Aarti is performed by priests and devotees at the ghats (steps) along the river bank, where they light large fire bowls (called “aartis”) and wave them in a circular motion in front of the river. They also sing hymns and prayers (called “bhajans”) that praise and thank the river for giving life, prosperity, and happiness. The devotees also participate in the ceremony by offering diyas (small lamps), flowers, or coins to the river and by dipping their hands or feet in the water.
Ganga Aarti is a way of expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, purifying sins, and honoring ancestors. Hindus believe that the river Ganga is not just a physical entity, but a living goddess who descended from heaven to earth to wash away the sins of humanity. They also believe that by attending the Ganga Aarti, they can attain salvation (moksha) and free themselves from the cycle of birth and death.
History of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar
Haridwar is one of the seven holy cities (sapta puri) in India and one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela (the largest religious gathering in the world) takes place every 12 years. The name “Haridwar” means “the gateway to God” and it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here and that a drop of nectar (amrit) fell here from the churning of the ocean (samudra manthan). Haridwar is also where the river Ganga enters the plains after flowing through the mountains.
The tradition of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar was started by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, a freedom fighter and educationist, in 1916. He wanted to revive the glory and sanctity of the river Ganga, which was being polluted by industrialization and urbanization. He also wanted to spread awareness about Hindu culture and values among the masses. He organized a group of priests and volunteers who performed the Ganga Aarti every evening at Har ki Pauri ghat, which means “the footsteps of Lord”. He also built a temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga on the opposite bank of the river.
Since then, Ganga Aarti in Haridwar has become a popular and prestigious event that attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from India and abroad every year. It has also become a symbol of national unity and harmony, as people from different regions, religions, castes, and backgrounds come together to worship the river Ganga.
Timings and Location of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar
The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar takes place twice a day: once in the morning before sunrise and once in the evening after sunset. The timings vary according to the season and daylight saving time, but generally they are as follows:
The main location of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is Har ki Pauri ghat, which is the most popular and sacred ghat in Haridwar. It is here that Lord Vishnu is said to have left his footprint and that a drop of nectar fell during the churning of the ocean. It is also here that the Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years. Har ki Pauri ghat is located on the western bank of the river Ganga, near the Harkipauri bridge.
There are some other ghats where Ganga Aarti is performed in Haridwar, such as Birla ghat, Asthi Pravah ghat, or Subhash ghat. However, they are not as crowded or famous as Har ki Pauri ghat.
To reach Har ki Pauri ghat, you can take a bus, train, or taxi to Haridwar. The distance from Haridwar bus stand to Har ki Pauri ghat is about 3 km and the distance from Haridwar railway station to Har ki Pauri ghat is about 2 km. You can walk, take a cycle rickshaw, an auto rickshaw, or a boat to reach Har ki Pauri ghat from either of these places.
Experience and Tips for Ganga Aarti in Haridwar
Attending the Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is an experience that will stay with you forever. You will be amazed by the sight of thousands of fire bowls and diyas floating on the river, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the dark sky. You will be moved by the sound of bells and conches, the chants of priests and devotees, and the aroma of incense and flowers. You will be touched by the feeling of devotion and joy that fills the air and the hearts of everyone present.
To make the most of this experience, here are some tips and guidelines for you:
Reach early: The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is very popular and crowded, especially during festivals and weekends. To get a good spot and view, you should reach at least an hour before the aarti starts. You can also book a seat or a boat in advance through some agents or hotels.
Dress appropriately: Haridwar is a holy city and Ganga Aarti is a religious ceremony. You should dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghat area.
Avoid crowds: The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar can get very chaotic and noisy, with people pushing and shoving to get closer to the river or the priests. You should avoid getting into such situations and keep a safe distance from the crowd. You should also beware of pickpockets and scammers who may try to take advantage of you.
Respect the culture: The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is a sacred and solemn ritual that deserves your respect and attention. You should not talk loudly, take selfies, or disturb others during the aarti. You should also not touch or interfere with the fire bowls or the priests who perform the aarti.
Donate generously: The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is organized by volunteers and priests who rely on donations from devotees and visitors. You should donate generously to support their efforts and to express your gratitude for their service. You can also offer diyas, flowers, or coins to the river as a gesture of reverence.
Conclusion
The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is one of the most sacred and stunning rituals in India that you should not miss if you are visiting this country. It is a unique way of connecting with the divine and experiencing the culture and spirituality of India. Whether you are a believer or a seeker, a traveler or a pilgrim, a Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is an experience that will stay with you forever.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and witness the magic of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar.
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