Ganga Mahotsav 2024: Thousands Gather in Varanasi for Five-Day Festival

Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), November 13 – Thousands of people gathered at Varanasi’s Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti during the vibrant five-day Ganga Mahotsav 2024. The festival, an annual celebration of the cultural and spiritual heritage of the River Ganges, takes place from November 11 to November 15 this year, according to Kashi's official portal.

On Tuesday evening, renowned Kathak dancer Yasmin Singh and her team presented a mesmerizing performance based on ‘Ardhanarishvara’ – the half-and-half form of Shiva, symbolizing unity of Shiva and Parvati. Singh shared her excitement with ANI, saying, “I first performed in Varanasi in 2012 at Meri Ganga Mahotsav, and returning to perform here again in 2024 is truly special. Today, we depicted Shiva’s half form as Ardhanarishvara, followed by Parvati’s Sadhana in a bhajan dedicated to Om Hari Om. The energy, the cheering, and the devotion here make us feel incredibly fortunate.”

As per Kashi's official portal, the Ganga Mahotsav is a grand, five-day festival in Varanasi dedicated to honoring the sacred Ganges and its deep spiritual significance. It draws visitors from around the world, with cultural performances ranging from classical dance and music to captivating art exhibits, boat races, and the Ganga Aarti, a traditional ceremony held at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The Aarti is performed by priests in elaborate rituals, accompanied by hymns and the symbolic release of lamps onto the river, creating a breathtaking scene for onlookers.