The Ganges Aarti is without any doubt the biggest Attraction in Varanasi. The Aarti begins around 6.45 pm in the evening on the very famous Dashashwamedh Ghat surrounded by thousands of pilgrims busy trying to grab a seat to get the best view of Aarti, and there’s also an interesting way to pay your presence and witness the Aarti is by taking a boat ride on The Holy River Ganges.
Before the Aarti starts A set of students learning Vedas and Upanishads- the young priests take their positions at a given wooden platform
Then the first thing they do is use the Incense Sticks- Which helps to purify your soul from outer to its core. It gives fragrant smoke when burned- symbolically let’s just take it like burning the devils around and appraising the presence of pure souls. So, basically its a procedure to purify everything before the start of Aart.
After that the main lamps are lit. The fire plays a significant role here as the fire is used as an offering to the river.
Below are the Picture I took of Priests performing Aarti.
Aarti- It has derived from a sanskrit word- ARATRIKA which means something which helps to remove the darkness and let the light of hope enter into your Lives.
Significance of Ganga Aarti
Aarti is a Hindu religious ritual of worship, a part of puja. This ceremony includes fire, songs sung in praise of the worshiped, flowers, incense, music, etc. The purpose of aarti is to show humility and gratitude to God’s divine form.
Ganga aarti is a devotional offering to the River Goddess. Lit lamps and flowers are floated down the river. This offering is made to the Goddess Ganga, also affectionately referred to as Maa, the Mother Goddess of the most holy river in India.
After the main lamps the other oil lamps are used to perform the Aarti. now I don't know why they use two lamps nor could I find something online. So, if anyone of you know do let me know in the comments.
After the Aarti all the priests take a fistful of Flowers (The symbol of Solidity and Gratitude) and shower them on themselves.
Then the Peacock feathers are used which represents the pureness and immortality of the soul.
Then all of them blow Shankhs - a symbol of fame and fortune- helps to set you free from your Sins.
Then they use the Yak-Tail Fan- A ceremonial fly-whisk to pay honor and respect.
And with that the Aarti is finished all the devotees get themselves to the ghats and give their offering to the Goddess Ganga in form of little Lit lamps and flowers which are then floated down the river.
Even though I witnessed the whole ceremony as a Photographer. Still the vibe of the place got to me. The chanting of prayers brings Goosebumps and tears in your eyes, reviving your soul and accepting your brighter side. The whole experience is nothing but Enlightening. Needless to stay next time you visit Varanasi make sure to get a nice place to witness the Aarti.