Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali is celebrated on the 15th day of the lunar month of Kartika, is one of the most spectacular and spiritually significant festivals in Varanasi. In 2024, Dev Deepawali  was on November 15th. This grand festival, which marks the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura, sees the ghats of the sacred Ganges lit up with thousands of diyas & lights , creating an enchanting, divine atmosphere that draws pilgrims, tourists, and devotees from all over the world. Luckily, I could witness it this time with my eyes and my camera lens.

Celebration at the Ghats: A Sea of Lights

The most awe-inspiring feature of Dev Deepawali in Kashi is the breathtaking sight of thousands of diyas (21lakhs this time) that illuminate the ghats along the Ganges River lined with small clay lamps, each glowing with a flickering flame. The spectacle is nothing short of magic, with the lights reflecting off the water, creating a surreal, ethereal ambiance. The ghats are usually decorated with marigold flowers and rangoli, adding to the festive spirit. 

Also, you can see the smiles on the faces of people. I've added some images I've captured.

MUST VISIT GHATS

The major ghats, especially Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat, become the center of the festivities, where special aarti (prayer rituals) are held. The Ganga Aarti, performed at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening, takes on a grander scale during Dev Deepawali, as priests and devotees offer prayers to the river goddess with fire, incense, and flowers. The aarti is accompanied by chants and bell sounds that reverberate through the air, deepening the spiritual atmosphere.

Devotees and Tourists: A Global Gathering

Dev Deepawali attracts not only locals from Varanasi and the surrounding regions but also tourists and pilgrims from across India and abroad. It is one of the few occasions when the city is as vibrant and bustling as it is serene. The local shops sell traditional items like brass lamps, puja thalis (prayer plates), and marigold garlands, adding to the festive shopping experience. Visitors can also indulge in local delicacies and explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, which are filled with energy during this time.

Dev Deepawali 2024 in Varanasi was an unforgettable experience, it is not just a festival but an immersive experience in devotion, tradition, and spiritual beauty which make people come together. Whether you are a devout follower or a first-time visitor, the atmosphere of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart . It was a moment of spiritual renewal and a visual feast that will linger in my heart and the people of all who witnessed it.

HAR HAR MAHADEV 🕉️ 

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