Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India and the world. It is a city of temples, ghats, and legends, where life and death coexist in harmony. It is a city where the sacred river Ganga flows, bringing life, purity, and salvation to millions of devotees.
One of the most amazing and unique experiences that Varanasi offers is the Ganga Aarti, a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering to the Goddess Ganga. Every evening, as the sun sets, hundreds of people gather at the banks of the river to witness this spectacular and spiritual spectacle that can transform one’s life.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, its meaning, significance, experience, benefits, and practical details. We will also give you some tips and suggestions on how to attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti, and make the most of your visit to Varanasi.
The Meaning and Significance of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
The word aarti comes from the Sanskrit word aratrika, which means a ritual that removes the darkness. It is a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering to a deity or a sacred element, such as the river Ganga. The fire symbolizes the light of knowledge, the warmth of devotion, and the power of purification.
The Ganga Aarti is performed by a group of priests who wear saffron robes and hold large brass lamps in their hands. The lamps have multiple wicks that are lit with ghee (clarified butter) or camphor. The priests also blow conch shells, ring bells, chant mantras, and offer flowers and incense to the river.
The priests move the lamps in a circular motion, creating a beautiful pattern of light and fire. The devotees also join the ceremony by lighting small lamps or candles and floating them on the river. The whole atmosphere is filled with the sound of music, the fragrance of flowers, and the sight of fire.
The Ganga Aarti is performed in a synchronized and coordinated manner, following a specific sequence of steps. The steps are:
The invocation of the deities and the Guru (spiritual teacher)
The offering of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) to the Goddess Ganga
The recitation of the Ganga Stotram (a hymn in praise of the Goddess Ganga)
The singing of the Ganga Aarti (a song that expresses gratitude, reverence, and love to the Goddess Ganga)
The distribution of the prasad (sacred food) and the blessings to the devotees
What is the spiritual significance of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
The Ganga Aarti is not just a ritual, but a way of life for the people of Varanasi. It is a way of expressing their gratitude, reverence, and love to the Goddess Ganga, who is believed to be the source of life, purity, and salvation.
The Goddess Ganga is one of the most revered and worshipped deities in Hinduism. She is considered to be the daughter of the Himalayas, the consort of Lord Shiva, and the mother of all living beings. She is also known as the bestower of boons, the remover of sins, and the liberator of souls.
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is especially significant because Varanasi is the abode of Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil, and the place where the Ganga flows from his matted hair. According to Hindu mythology, the Ganga descended from heaven to earth through the hair of Lord Shiva, who broke her fall and softened her impact. This is why the Ganga is also called Bhagirathi, meaning the one who was brought by Bhagiratha, the king who performed penance to bring the Ganga to earth.
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is also a way of connecting with the divine, cleansing one’s sins, and attaining liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is believed that by taking a dip in the Ganga, one can wash away one’s karmas and attain moksha, or freedom from suffering. It is also believed that by witnessing the Ganga Aarti, one can receive the blessings of the Goddess Ganga and the Lord Shiva, and experience a state of bliss and peace.
What can you expect to see and feel during the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a divine experience that you should not miss. It is a feast for the senses, a delight for the mind, and a joy for the soul. Here are some of the things that you can expect to see and feel during the Ganga Aarti:
The colors:
The Ganga Aarti is a colorful spectacle that showcases the rich and vibrant culture of Varanasi. You can see the saffron robes of the priests, the golden lamps, the red flowers, the white incense, and the rainbow of lights that reflect on the river.
The lights:
The Ganga Aarti is a luminous display that creates a magical and mystical ambiance. You can see the flames of the lamps, the sparks of the fire, the glow of the candles, and the stars in the sky. You can also see the silhouettes of the boats, the buildings, and the people that line the riverbank.
The sounds:
The Ganga Aarti is a musical performance that fills the air with the sound of devotion. You can hear the blowing of the conch shells, the ringing of the bells, the chanting of the mantras, and the singing of the aarti. You can also hear the clapping of the hands, the cheering of the crowd, and the splashing of the water.
The smells:
The Ganga Aarti is a fragrant ceremony that stimulates the sense of smell. You can smell the ghee or the camphor that burns in the lamps, the flowers and the incense that are offered to the river, and the aroma of the food that is sold in the nearby stalls.
The atmosphere:
The Ganga Aarti is a festive and spiritual occasion that attracts people from all walks of life. You can feel the energy, the enthusiasm, and the emotion of the people who gather to witness the Ganga Aarti. You can also feel the serenity, the reverence, and the love that emanate from the river and the deities.
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is an unforgettable and transformative experience that can touch your heart and soul.
What are the benefits of attending the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is not only a wonderful experience, but also a beneficial one. It can offer you many benefits in terms of physical, mental, and spiritual health and well-being. Here are some of the benefits of attending the Ganga Aarti:
Physical benefits:
The Ganga Aarti can improve your physical health by boosting your immunity, enhancing your blood circulation, and detoxifying your body. The fire, the water, and the air that are involved in the Ganga Aarti can balance your doshas (the three energies that govern your body) and harmonize your body systems. The Ganga Aarti can also cure or prevent various diseases and ailments, such as skin problems, digestive issues, respiratory infections, and chronic pains.
Mental benefits:
The Ganga Aarti can improve your mental health by reducing your stress, anxiety, and depression, and increasing your happiness, positivity, and creativity. The sound, the light, and the fragrance that are involved in the Ganga Aarti can stimulate your brain, calm your mind, and uplift your mood. The Ganga Aarti can also enhance your memory, concentration, and intelligence, and help you overcome your fears, doubts, and worries.
Spiritual benefits:
The Ganga Aarti can improve your spiritual health by awakening your inner wisdom, enhancing your intuition, and expanding your consciousness. The Ganga Aarti can improve your spiritual health by awakening your inner wisdom, enhancing your intuition, and expanding your consciousness. The fire, the water, and the air that are involved in the Ganga Aarti can activate your chakras (the seven energy centers in your body) and align your aura (the subtle energy field around you). The Ganga Aarti can also help you connect with your higher self, your soul purpose, and your divine guidance.
The Practical Details and Tips for the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is performed at five main ghats, which are the steps that lead to the river. Each ghat has its own features and attractions, and you can choose the one that suits your preference and convenience. Here are the five main ghats where the Ganga Aarti is performed:
Dashashwamedh Ghat:
This is the most popular and crowded ghat, where the main and the grandest Ganga Aarti is performed. It is located near the Vishwanath Temple, the most sacred temple in Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is performed by seven priests, who use seven large lamps, each with a hundred wicks. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:45 pm in summer and 5:45 pm in winter, and lasts for about 45 minutes.
Assi Ghat:
This is the southernmost ghat, where the Ganga meets the Assi river. It is a quieter and cleaner ghat, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by three priests, who use three smaller lamps, each with five wicks. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:00 pm in summer and 5:00 pm in winter, and lasts for about 30 minutes.
Rajendra Prasad Ghat: This is a relatively new ghat, named after the first president of India. It is a peaceful and spacious ghat, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by five priests, who use five medium-sized lamps, each with twenty wicks. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:30 pm in summer and 5:30 pm in winter, and lasts for about 40 minutes.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is the most sacred and the oldest ghat, where the cremation of the dead takes place. It is a ghat of life and death, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by one priest, who uses one large lamp, with a hundred wicks. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 7:00 pm in summer and 6:00 pm in winter, and lasts for about 15 minutes.
Panchganga Ghat: This is the northernmost ghat, where the Ganga meets four other rivers: the Varuna, the Asi, the Dhutapapa, and the Kirana. It is a ghat of confluence and harmony, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by two priests, who use two small lamps, each with ten wicks. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:15 pm in summer and 5:15 pm in winter, and lasts for about 20 minutes.
You can find a map or a link to a map that shows the locations of the ghats and their distances from each other and from the main landmarks of the city [here].
The Ganga Aarti is performed every day, throughout the year, regardless of the weather or the season. However, there are some special occasions or festivals when the Ganga Aarti is more elaborate or festive, such as:
Ganga Dussehra: This is a festival that celebrates the descent of the Ganga from heaven to earth. It is celebrated on the tenth day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, which usually falls in May or June. On this day, the Ganga Aarti is performed with more lamps, flowers, and music, and the devotees take a holy dip in the river and offer prayers and donations to the priests.
Dev Deepawali: This is a festival that celebrates the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls in November or December. On this day, the Ganga Aarti is performed with more lamps, candles, and fireworks, and the devotees light thousands of earthen lamps and float them on the river, creating a stunning sight of illumination.
Makar Sankranti: This is a festival that marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is celebrated on the 14th or 15th of January every year. On this day, the Ganga Aarti is performed with more lamps, kites, and sweets, and the devotees fly colorful kites and offer sesame seeds and jaggery to the river, symbolizing prosperity and happiness.
How can you attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
There are many ways to attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, depending on your budget, preference, and convenience. Here are some of the options and tips that you can consider:
By boat: This is one of the best and the most popular ways to attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti, as you can get a close and clear view of the ceremony from the water. You can hire a boat from any of the ghats, or book a boat tour online or through a travel agent. The boat ride The Ganga Aarti can improve your spiritual health by awakening your inner wisdom, enhancing your intuition, and expanding your consciousness. The fire, the water, and the air that are involved in the Ganga Aarti can activate your chakras (the energy centers in your body) and align your aura (the energy field around your body). The Ganga Aarti can also help you connect with your higher self, your soul purpose, and your divine guidance.
The Practical Details and Tips for the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Where and when is the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi performed?
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is performed at five main ghats, which are the steps that lead to the river. Each ghat has its own features and attractions, and you can choose the one that suits your preference and convenience. Here are the five main ghats where the Ganga Aarti is performed:
Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is the most popular and crowded ghat, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by the Ganga Seva Nidhi, a non-profit organization that aims to preserve and promote the culture and heritage of Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is the most elaborate and grand, with seven priests performing the ceremony with seven lamps each. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:45 pm in summer and 5:45 pm in winter, and lasts for about 45 minutes. This ghat is also close to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the main temple of Lord Shiva in Varanasi.
Assi Ghat: This is the southernmost ghat, where the Ganga Aarti is performed by the Subah-e-Banaras, a cultural initiative that aims to revive and celebrate the morning glory of Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is the only one that is performed in the morning, before sunrise, and is accompanied by yoga, meditation, and music. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 5:30 am in summer and 6:15 am in winter, and lasts for about 30 minutes. This ghat is also a hub for art, literature, and education, and hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
Rajendra Prasad Ghat: This is the ghat named after the first president of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who visited Varanasi in 1953 and performed the Ganga Aarti here. The Ganga Aarti here is performed by the Ganga Mahasabha, a social organization that works for the welfare of the people and the environment of Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is similar to the one at Dashashwamedh Ghat, but less crowded and more peaceful. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 6:30 pm in summer and 5:30 pm in winter, and lasts for about 30 minutes. This ghat is also a good spot to enjoy the view of the river and the city.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is the ghat where the cremation of the dead takes place, and is considered to be the most sacred and auspicious ghat in Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is performed by the Dom Raja, the king of the Doms, the caste that handles the cremation rites. The Ganga Aarti here is a solemn and respectful ceremony, where the fire of the lamps is offered to the fire of the pyres, and the ashes of the dead are offered to the river. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 7:00 pm in summer and 6:00 pm in winter, and lasts for about 15 minutes. This ghat is also a place where you can witness the reality of life and death, and the cycle of karma and rebirth.
Panchganga Ghat: This is the ghat where five rivers, namely the Ganga, the Yamuna, the Saraswati, the Kirana, and the Dhupapapa, are believed to meet and form a confluence. The Ganga Aarti here is performed by the priests of the Adi Keshava Temple, the oldest temple of Lord Vishnu in Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti here is a simple and elegant ceremony, where the lamps are offered to the five rivers, and the prayers are offered to the five forms of Lord Vishnu. The Ganga Aarti here starts at 7:15 pm in summer and 6:15 pm in winter, and lasts for about 15 minutes. This ghat is also a place where you can admire the architecture and the history of the temple and the ghat.
Here is a map or a link to a map that shows the locations of the ghats and their distances from each other and from the main landmarks of the city: [Varanasi Ghats Map].
How can you attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
There are many ways to attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, depending on your budget, preference, and availability. Here are some of the options and tips on how to reach and view the Ganga Aarti:
By boat: This is the best way to get a panoramic and uninterrupted view of the Ganga Aarti, as well as the river and the city. You can hire a boat from any of the ghats, and cruise along the river, stopping at the ghat of your choice to watch the Ganga Aarti. The boat ride will cost you around 200 to 500 rupees per person, depending on the duration, the size, and the type of the boat. You can also book a boat in advance through a travel agent or an online platform, such as [Kashi Boat Booking]. The boat ride will also give you an opportunity to see the other ghats, the temples, and the activities that take place on the riverbank.
By the ghat: This is the most common and economical way to watch the Ganga Aarti, as well as the most immersive and interactive one. You can walk to the ghat of your choice, and find a spot on the steps or the platform, where you can sit or stand and watch the Ganga Aarti. You can also participate in the ceremony by clapping, singing, or offering a lamp to the river. However, this option can be very crowded and chaotic, especially at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where thousands of people gather every evening. You may have to arrive at least an hour before the Ganga Aarti starts, and secure your spot. You may also have to deal with the hawkers, the beggars, and the touts, who may try to sell you something or ask for money. You should be careful of your belongings, and avoid any scams or hassles.
By a hotel balcony or rooftop: This is a comfortable and convenient way to watch the Ganga Aarti, especially if you are staying at a hotel that is located near the ghats, and has a balcony or a rooftop that overlooks the river. You can enjoy the Ganga Aarti from the comfort and privacy of your room, or from the common area of the hotel, where you can also meet other travelers and share your experiences. You can also order some food and drinks, and make it a memorable evening. However, this option can be expensive and limited, as there are not many hotels that offer this facility, and they may charge you extra for the view. You may also miss out on the ambiance and the energy of the Ganga Aarti, and the interaction with the locals and the devotees.
Here are some dos and don’ts for the Ganga Aarti:
Do respect the local customs and beliefs, and dress appropriately and modestly. Avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops, and cover your head and shoulders with a scarf or a shawl.
Do not take photos or videos of the Ganga Aarti without permission, and do not use flash or loud noises. The Ganga Aarti is a sacred and solemn ceremony, and you should not disturb or distract the priests or the devotees.
Do not touch or drink the water of the Ganga, as it may be polluted and contaminated. The Ganga is revered as a goddess, and you should not disrespect or harm her.
Do not litter or throw anything into the river, such as plastic, paper, or food. The Ganga is the source of life, and you should not pollute or damage her.
Do be mindful and attentive, and enjoy the Ganga Aarti with your heart and soul. The Ganga Aarti is a divine and blissful experience, and you should not miss or waste it.
Here are some suggestions on what to do before and after the Ganga Aarti:
Before the Ganga Aarti, you can visit the temples, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Annapurna Temple, the Sankat Mochan Temple, and the Durga Temple, and seek the blessings of the gods and goddesses. You can also explore the markets, such as the Godowlia Market, the Chowk Market, and the Vishwanath Gali, and buy some souvenirs, handicrafts, or sweets. You can also taste the food, such as the kachori, the chaat, the lassi, and the paan, and savor the flavors of Varanasi.
After the Ganga Aarti, you can experience the nightlife, such as the cultural shows, the musical concerts, and the festivals, that take place at various venues, such as the Ganga Mahotsav, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan. You can also relax and rejuvenate You can also relax and rejuvenate at the spas, the yoga centers, and the meditation camps, that offer various therapies, such as the Ayurveda, the Panchakarma, and the Reiki, that can heal your body, mind, and soul. You can also stay at the hotels, the guesthouses, or the ashrams, that provide comfortable and affordable accommodation, as well as a chance to interact with the locals and the travelers. You can also plan your next day’s itinerary, and visit the other attractions of Varanasi, such as the Ramnagar Fort, the Sarnath Museum, and the Chunar Fort.
Conclusion
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a divine experience that you should not miss. It is a spectacular and spiritual ceremony that honors the Goddess Ganga, the source of life, purity, and salvation. It is a way of expressing gratitude, reverence, and love to the river and the deities, and a way of connecting with the divine, cleansing one’s sins, and attaining liberation. It is also a feast for the senses, a delight for the mind, and a joy for the soul.
In this article, we have told you everything you need to know about the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, its meaning, significance, experience, benefits, and practical details. We have also given you some tips and suggestions on how to attend and enjoy the Ganga Aarti, and make the most of your visit to Varanasi.
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Varanasi and witness the Ganga Aarti for yourself. We assure you that it will be a memorable and transformative experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to share them with us. We would love to hear from you and help you plan your trip to Varanasi.
Thank you for reading this article, and happy travels!
