The Ganga Aarti is a devotional ritual in which priests offer prayers to the river Ganga with large brass lamps, bells, conch shells and chanting. Held every evening on the ghats of holy cities, it draws thousands of devotees and visitors. Here is a guide.
What is aarti
Aarti is a Hindu ritual of offering light to a deity. In the Ganga Aarti, the river itself is worshipped as Goddess Ganga, seen as a mother who purifies and gives life.
Varanasi
- The best known Ganga Aarti takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening.
- A group of young priests in matching robes perform the aarti in perfect sync with multi tiered lamps.
- Assi Ghat hosts a morning aarti as part of the Subah-e-Banaras programme.
- Many visitors watch from boats on the river.
Haridwar
- The aarti at Har Ki Pauri is organised by the Ganga Sabha.
- Devotees float small leaf boats with flowers and diyas on the river.
- Har Ki Pauri is believed to carry the footprint of Lord Vishnu and is one of the four sites of the Kumbh Mela.
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Rishikesh
- Parmarth Niketan ashram holds a well known evening aarti with bhajans and chanting.
- Triveni Ghat also hosts a daily aarti.
- The setting in Rishikesh is calmer and more intimate.
Timings
The evening aarti begins around sunset, so the time changes with the season. It is earlier in winter and later in summer. Arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early to get a good spot, especially on weekends and festivals.
Special occasions
- On Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, celebrated on Kartik Purnima, the ghats are lit with lakhs of diyas.
- During Ganga Dussehra and Kumbh, crowds are very large.
Tips for visitors
- Dress modestly and respect the rituals.
- Keep your belongings safe in crowds.
- Book boats only from authorised operators and wear life jackets.
- Do not throw plastic or waste into the river.
- Follow police and administration guidance during heavy crowds.
Clean Ganga
The Namami Gange programme of the central government works to reduce pollution in the river. Visitors can help by avoiding plastic and using dustbins on the ghats.
Bottom line
Whether in Varanasi, Haridwar or Rishikesh, the Ganga Aarti offers a deep sense of devotion. Plan around sunset, arrive early and respect the river.
Source / स्रोत: Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, Incredible India, Ministry of Tourism
