The Aarti is always done after sunset, during winter it is around 6 PM, and during summer it is around 7 PM. This meticulously synchronized ritual, carried out by seven young Brahmin priests of Kashi, represents the revered Saptarishis of ancient tradition. hey commence the Aarti by blowing conch shells and reciting mantras while wearing traditional clothing, like as dhoti, kurta, and colorful drapes. The priests execute a series of offerings using incense, flowers, and enormous tiered brass lamps that mimic the multi-headed serpent Sheshnag, while a garlanded image of Goddess Ganga is set on the middle platform. A captivating and spiritually charged ambiance is produced by the lights’ coordinated movements, the sound of Vedic Chants, bhajans praising Lord Shiva and Vishnu, and the luminous light of flames. The ceremony takes place on a raised platform with seven umbrella-like canopies, facing the sacred river. The ceremony concludes with the offering of flowers and floating lamps into the river, believed to purify the soul and foster inner peace.
Dashashwamedh Ghat and the Ganga Aarti: A Divine Symphony of Light, Devotion, and the Sacred Ganges
One of the ancient and most revered ghats is the Dashashwamedh Ghat. As per the Hindu legends, it was created by Lord Brahma either to receive Lord Shiva or after performing ten Ashvamedha Yajnas (horse sacrifices), which is how the ghat got the name “Dashashwamedh.”
This visually stunning and deeply spiritual ritual is performed on the banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. An Aarti is held after sunset with free entrance, making it an open and inclusive spiritual experience.