The Ganga aarti in Varanasi is a beautiful view of devotion and joy that allows us to feel the presence of the divine around us. Throughout history, the holy Ganga River has been respected every single day. It’s a must-see event for every traveler.

The Aarti begin with the priests dressing in traditional attire – dhoti and kurta, well-tied with a long gamcha (towel). They arrange five elevated planks and gather ritual items such as a brass lamp, the idol of Ganga Devi, flowers, and incense sticks. The aarti is conducted by knowledgeable pundits of the Vedas and Upanishads, led by the priest of the Gangotri Seva Samiti.

The ceremony begins with the lighting of the traditional brass lamps, accompanied by rhythmic chanting of holy mantras. Some priests blow conch shells (Shanakh) to purify the atmosphere, while others wave incense sticks to honor Mother Ganga. After the initial mantras, the priests perform the aarti with the brass lamps, using camphor to light them. The mesmerizing aarti fills the air with a sense of purity and peacefulness, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.