My glittering night walk at diya lit Ganga ghats on Dev Deepawali in Varanasi.
I had planned my Varanasi Ganga walks in November 2023 coinciding with Dev Deepawali. This is the most picturesque festival of Varanasi. Thousands of earthen lamps illuminate the ghats of the holy river Ganga. Devotees and tourists from all over the world arrive in Varanasi to be a part of this divine occasion.
Dev Deepawali is celebrated as the Gods’ festival of lights on the full moon of Kartik Purnima, fifteen days after the Deepawali festival. It is believed, the Gods descend on earth to bathe in the sacred Ganga, on this auspicious day. The festival also commemorates Lord Shiva’s triumph over three demons, Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha, and Viryavana, collectively called as Tripurasura.
I began my Dev Deepawali walk at 4 pm. Placing of diyas on the ghat steps had already begun. Then the process of pouring oil and putting wick in diyas. At dusk began the lighting of diyas. I too lighted a row of diyas. Ghats decorations were laid with rangoli and theme based creations.
Glittering Ganga ghats mesmerized everyone. Then the heavenly aura of evening arti. At 7.30 pm, a light and sound show followed by a grand laser spectacle enthralled the jam packed audience at Kashi Vishwanath corridor.
By 10 pm diya flames went out but devotional programs continued till late ight.
There were ample security arrangements at ghats. I wasn’t worried at all for my safety. Sipping tea while watching a performance at around midnight, I was all absorbed in the mystical feel of Dev Deepawali.
What an amazing evening! I love all the colors, and the energy feels so electric in these photos.
Truly electric.
Wow, the lights and all those diyas that have been lit up too makes it all look very magical along the way.
Truly magical experience.
Wow! This place looks very alive at night. I love to walk around in this place.
Absolutely alive at night on Dev Deepawali.
Looks like a beautiful festivity to take part in. Thanks for sharing the lovely photos of this.
Indeed a beautiful festival.
What a captivating description of your night walk at the Diya-lit Ganga ghats during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi! Your choice to experience this enchanting festival in November 2023 sounds truly magical. The imagery of thousands of earthen lamps illuminating the holy river Ganga paints a vivid picture. It’s evident that Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is a truly divine experience. Thanks for sharing your wonderful journey!
Truly magical experience.
Wow very cool! What a beautiful night time display…looks like you had a marvelous time!
Marvelous time absolutely.
I think the light/sound/laser show would be incredible to see. I do love this time of year.
Awesome show.
What a serendipitous evening to be a part of! The divine evening arti is truly a sight to behold.
Absolutely so.
Your account of lighting diyas, the artistry of rangoli, and the heavenly evening aarti creates such a captivating picture.
Thank you Lavanda. That was an amazing feel.
This is a phenomenal post with an amazing cultural experience. I really appreciate your amazing pictures.
Thank you.
Wow how amazing ! What a stunning night time display. It looks like you had the most wonderful time !
Wonderful time absolutely.