Why millions of devotees flock to Kashi to witness the ghats illuminated with a million glowing diyas on this auspicious day.
A Celebration of Light and Devotion
Dev Deepawali, celebrated 15 days after Diwali on Kartik Poornima, is the festival of the gods in Varanasi. Devotees believe that on this night, the gods descend to earth to bathe in the holy Ganges and celebrate the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura.
The Illumination of a Million Diyas
The entire stretch of ghats in Varanasi, spanning over 80 locations, is lined with millions of earthenware lamps (diyas). As dusk falls, the steps of the ghats glow with a mesmerizing golden light, reflecting on the river waters. It is an unmatched visual spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Festivities and Rituals
The evening starts with traditional Vedic prayers and a special grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The sky is filled with light shows and cultural performances. Pilgrims participate in Kartik Snan (taking a holy bath in the Ganges) and offering deepdan (floating lamps in the river).
