We all recently celebrated the most popular festival of the year “Diwali”. The festival of lights, togetherness and grandeur has been always special in itself. But when the whole of India is under the hangover of having celebrated Diwali in the recent past, Varanasi has almost geared up for its most special festival of the year and yes that is – Dev Deepavali.
I am quite sure not many people would be aware of this festival. Well, Dev Deepavali which is celebrated on the fifteenth day of Diwali is a tribute to river Ganga by the people of Varanasi. It has been a popular belief that on this day (which is also a full moon day); Gods descend on earth to bathe in the Ganges. Another legend speaks of the return of Lord Vishnu to his abode after the Vamana incarnation. Thus, it has become an old tradition in the city to lit lamps entirely as a mark to welcome Gods as they descend on the earth.
Two of the most crucial events performed as a part of this festival are Kartik Snan and Deepdaan. While, in the early morning, devotees take a holy dip in the river bowing to the Sun – God it is in the evening that they perform Deepotsav, under the full moon reflecting in the holy waters. And amidst chanting of Vedic hymns diyas are lit everywhere, literally at every corner of the city and is a wonderful sight to watch.
The Maha Ganga Aarti: This is the most important part of the evening. It is the most elaborated form of Aarti you will see anywhere else. When Ghats of Varanasi comes alive with thousands of diyas and huge lamps that are set ablaze with the vigorous chanting of hymns by the priests and the people that team up from all over the country is full of enthusiasm and immense excitement to watch on!
The Ganga Mahotsav: A cultural and food paradise
All of Varanasi comes alive with music, dance and feasting for a few days on the occasion of Dev Deepavali. Each year, a five-day carnival is held which is a perfect time to soak in the culture of the city.
“Banaras is older than history, older than traditions, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together. ” –Mark Twain
Truly said, with Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage, Dev Deepavali is the absolute time to savour the beauty of 84 Ganga Ghats of the city that are lit to their very last inch, giving the experience to connect with their spirits and culture!
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