Your Guide to Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepavali Festival

The lanes of one of the oldest cities in the world are busy with the preparations for Ganga Mahotsav; the confluence of music, art, culture and spiritual festivities. The festival is celebrated on a huge scale, with utmost splendour for the whole five days. The festivities begin on Prabodhani Ekadashi and continue until the end of Kartik Poornima which is Dev Deepavali; famous as Diwali of the Gods. During this time, in particular, the stairs at the Varanasi Ghats look so mesmerising that they appear just like a shining stairway to heaven. If the aforementioned details have excited you to the core, learn everything about attending Ganga Mahotsav in 2022 below.

What is the Significance of Ganga Mahotsav?

This goes without saying that the river Ganga has been viewed as a sacred life source ever since the existence of humankind. Thus, the festival celebrates the importance and spiritual significance of the holy river. This is also why the festival is celebrated in the Ghats of Benares. Ganga Mahotsav also reveres the cultural, religious and traditional capital of India which is Varanasi. Locals, tourists and spiritual seekers flock to the place to witness the unique cultural and spiritual fervour.

Furthermore, the day also holds patriotic importance. On Ganga Mahotsav, the entire army of brave soldiers in Indian forces, died fighting for India. Martyrs are remembered and paid tribute as the whole atmosphere reverberates with the tune of patriotic songs.

What are the Legends Associated With Ganga Mahotsav?

Though there are many legends and folklore associated with the festival, the most popular one is linked to Mahadev; Lord Shiva. The Ganges is believed to have its origins inside the tresses of Lord Shiva and in Varanasi, it expands to the most powerful and revered river that everyone looks towards in awe. In fact, the last day of Ganga Mahotsav; Dev Deepavali, is celebrated to honour Lord Shiva who won over three demons, i.e. Tripurasura together. Some say that Gods come together to rejoice over this victory on the occasion of Dev Deepavali.

How are Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepavali Celebrated?

You will be mesmerised to see the rows of ghats of Varanasi decorated with lamps or diyas illuminating the surroundings and reflecting magically in the pious Ganga River! Elaborative aartis take place at the river ghats and thousands of oil lamps are lit and set afloat on the river amidst the chanting of Vedic hymns. Then there is a spectacular show of fireworks that light up the dark night sky. The view is rather enchanting and magical.

Many devotees take a holy dip (Karthik Snan) in Ganga Maiya on Dev Deepavali because of the belief that crores of Gods and Goddesses also take bath in the river on the same day. It is also believed that taking a dip in Ganga attracts prosperity and washes away all the sins & bad karma of a person. You will also see many Hindu pilgrims offering a cup made of leaves comprising fresh flowers, fruits, incense sticks and earthen lamps.

What's more, you can witness the classical and folk performances alongside a series of rituals & grand festivities that continue till late at night.