Dev Deepawali 2024: The Festival That Lights Up the Ganges

Dev Deepawali, is a beautiful celebration in Varanasi, India. Thousands of lights on the ghats create an otherworldly and spiritual atmosphere. For an authentic cultural experience, there's no better time to visit Varanasi than during Dev Deepawali. 

History & Significance of Dev Deepawali

The most important festival in this regard is Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. Its story is associated with the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. Dev Deepawali is celebrated on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima, fifteen days after Diwali. It is believed that the gods (Devas) descend from heaven on this day to bathe in the holy river Ganges and rejoice with humans. This is why it is called 'Dev Deepawali,' or the Festival of Lights of the Gods.

For centuries the festival has been performed and forms an integral part of Varanasi's spiritual and religious activity. It has taken over the years to become something massive where pilgrims, visitors, and agencies bring along thousands of tourists. People come to see the beautiful view of the ghats that glow because of millions of diyas creating a magical view.

Dev Deepawali Rituals

The festival includes quite a few rituals and practices that make the festival special.

Diyas or Lamps: The entire stretch of the Ganges at Varanasi is lit up with millions of diyas (earthen lamps) as offerings to the gods. Thousands of tourists come to witness the grand view.

Ganga Aarti: There is a beautiful Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and all the other ghats. Here priests chant hymns, blow conch shells, and offer their prayers to the Ganges River. The entire riverfront comes alive with light and devotion.

Holy Bathing: Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges with the notion that it will wash away their sins and bring them closer to salvation.

Puja and Offerings: Depending on the local temples in the city, special pujas, elaborately decorated, are offered to deities such as Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, among others.

Floating Lamps: People place diyas in tiny lamps in the Ganges. These float with the river and create a mesmerising, glistening impact.

Events to Check Out

1. Millions of Earthen Lamps Lighting Up All 84 Ghats

One of the most beautiful sights during Dev Diwali is the millions of small diyas (earthen lamps) lighting up all 84 ghats in Varanasi. The soft light reflects on the Ganges River, creating a magical and spiritual atmosphere. From Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat, every ghat is decorated with lamps, turning the city into a glowing sea of light and devotion. Walking along the ghats or seeing this view from the river is an experience you won’t forget.

2. Laser Light Show at Chet Singh Ghat

Dev Diwali is rich in rituals and steeped in tradition, but the fabulous display of colourful laser lights and projection shows at Chet Singh Fort adds a modern touch. This location holds significant spiritual importance for Varanasi, beautifully set against the historic backdrop of Chet Singh Fort. The lasers blend seamlessly with traditional music and chants, creating a memorable and engaging experience for the audience.

3. Projection Show at Kashi Vishwanath Corridor

During Dev Diwali, one of the main attractions is a light show at the New Kashi Vishwanath Corridor that brings to life the history and myths surrounding the city and its connection with Lord Shiva. The massive walls of the corridor are vibrantly illuminated, reminding visitors of Varanasi’s ancient customs and enduring faith. It's a beautiful blend of modern technology and timeless spiritual tales.

4. Panchganga Aarti

The Panchganga Ghat Aarti on Dev Diwali is something you should experience. It is one of the ancient ghats, where five holy rivers are said to converge. The Ganga Aarti here is special, wherein it invokes all the spiritual energies. Devotees, priests, and tourists converge during this biggest ritual while praying and lighting lamps in reverence for the River Ganges. The rhythmic singing, incense, and shining lamps create a special atmosphere that will remain long after the festival.

5. Cultural Performances at the Ghats

Dev Diwali is equally a religious occasion and a major cultural event. In the evening, culture-related performances occur at various ghats. There are performances of classical music and dance, folk drama, and traditional theatre, which turn the ghats alive with the Varanasi culture. Artists from all parts of the nation throng the ghats to exhibit their talents and delight the eyes and ears.

6. Fireworks Display on the Opposite Side of the River

Another big attraction of Dev Diwali is the spectacular fireworks show across the river, offering a tremendous view from the ghats. The colours brighten the sky with fireworks explosions, which shine appreciatively on the still waters of the Ganges. Watching fireworks amidst thousands of glowing lamps is an experience that stays with you forever.

The Best Locations to Experience Dev Diwali

If you're planning to see the beautiful Dev Diwali festival in Varanasi, here are some must-visit places.

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, where the largest Diwali ceremonies are held. Thousands of lights illuminate the steps, and the Ganga Aarti, a ritual prayer ceremony, is a captivating experience.

• Assi Ghat: Assi Ghat is one of the prominent ghats in Varanasi. This ghat does not have a long line, but it is quite crowded. The place is pretty comfortable to just sit and relax amidst cultural shows and light presentations.

• Manikarnika Ghat: This ghat holds deep spiritual significance, as it is specifically used for cremation rites, and on Dev Diwali, the entire area glows with lights symbolising both life and death.

• Harishchandra Ghat: Like Manikarnika, it serves as a place for cremation; but on festival days, it is filled with lights and prayers honoring those who have passed away.

• Kedar Ghat: A favourite ghat among South Indians; it appears very quiet and gorgeously decorated on Dev Diwali, silent and serene.

• Chet Singh Fort: The old fort offers a great view of the vibrant ghat and the city. A bit of history mixes with the festival when lights decorate the fort.

• Kashi Vishwanath Corridor: This newly developed road connecting the temple and ghats is nicely illuminated for Dev Diwali, providing a great religious experience.

• Raj Ghat: Raj Ghat is located at the northern end of Varanasi. It is less crowded than most of the ghats but it is colourful enough and offers fine views to the lit-up ghats.

• Tulsi Ghat: Tulsi Ghat is named after the poet Tulsidas. It has such an interesting history. During Dev Diwali, many people show their love for God, and there are beautiful light shows.

• Bhadaini Ghat: This is a quiet residential ghat that offers a secluded view of the riverbank, with few people around.

• Scindia Ghat: There is a temple here that is partially submerged underwater. It appears especially mysterious during Dev Diwali when it is fully illuminated.

• Lalita Ghat: Lalita Ghat features a Nepalese-style temple. It is rich in culture and celebration, and the lights are beautiful during Dev Diwali.

• Ganga Mahal: It is located parallel to a palace and has a royal appearance. The entire place radiates brightness and reflects the ancient tale of Varanasi.

• Kshameshwar Ghat: It appears to be a place of prayer during Dev Diwali, where lights and rituals symbolise forgiveness and the power of purification through the Ganga.

The best way to experience the magic of Dev Diwali in Varanasi is from the waters. As you float on a boat along the Ganges at night, you’ll see glowing ghats, stunning aartis, and fireworks lighting up the sky. Picture yourself drifting on the river, surrounded by millions of shining lamps as the city celebrates. The real experience is far more incredible than any photo. This ‘Festival of Lights for the Gods’ is something everyone should experience at least once in their life.