Kashi Vishwanath, Ganga, ghats and Ganga Aarti are famous attractions of the city of ‘Dharma’ and spirituality – Varanasi. As the sun sets and the ghats
come alive with the glow of myriad lamps, a series of preparatory activities set the stage for the enchanting spectacle of Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The preparation for the Varanasi Ganga Aarti is woven into the fabric of tradition and devotion. The spiritual journey commences hours before the actual ceremony, with the meticulous cleaning and purifying of the Ghat premises. The devoted caretakers, often belonging to ancient priestly lineages, engage in the cleansing of the steps, the surrounding areas, and the sacred platform where the Aarti will unfold. Simultaneously, the gathering of materials for the Aarti begins. Brass lamps are arranged in perfect symmetry. The fragrance of incense permeates the air. Marigold flowers are strung together to create elaborate garlands that will adorn the sacred space. These preparations, conducted with unwavering precision, infuse a sense of anticipation and sanctity into the atmosphere. The dais is decorated colorfully.
Ganga Aarti is conducted on a dais facing river Ganga by seven young priests under the tutelage of Gangotri Seva Samiti. As the day progresses, the priests, donned in traditional attire, undertake the intricate task of adorning the deity idols that will preside over the Aarti. Each idol is treated with utmost reverence, bathed in sanctified water, anointed with fragrant oils, and adorned with resplendent garments and jewelry. The meticulousness with which these rituals are performed reflects the deep spiritual significance attached to the Ganga Aarti, elevating it from a mere spectacle to a divine communion. The sound of bells, resonating through the air, announces the approaching commencement of the Ganga Aarti. The priests, now fully immersed in a state of spiritual readiness, gather for a collective prayer. This sacred assembly serves as a unifying force, harmonizing the energies of the participants and creating a spiritual synergy that will permeate the entire ceremony.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the Ganges, the lamps are lit with a ceremonial precision. The flickering flames, mirrored in the sacred waters, create an ethereal dance of light that symbolizes the cosmic dance of the divine. The priests utter holy hymns of the Vedas and Upanishads along with billowing conch shells. Fragrance sticks, oil lamps and camphor are burnt following centuries old traditional rituals. The priests wear religiously sanctioned traditional dress. The rhythmic chanting of mantras, accompanied by the soul-stirring music of traditional instruments, forms a celestial symphony that resonates with the collective heartbeat of the participants. The Ganga Aarti, now in full bloom, transcends the physical realm, transporting both participants and spectators into a realm of spiritual ecstasy. The preparatory activities serve as the foundation for this divine spectacle.
The viewers sit on the stone-steps and the boats, knotted together. The worship of Ganga is basically showing reverence by performing religious rituals along with chanting of ‘mantras’. Thousands of faithful and tourists gather to watch Ganga Aarti daily. Though the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi performed 365 days a year but the grandest aarti takes place during Kartik Purnima (in October/ November). Viewing evening Ganga Aarti is an essential attraction of all Varanasi tour packages.