Dev Deepawali (Diwali) Festival in Varanasi, India

• Overview

  Dev Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, is a grand celebration that takes place in Varanasi, one of the most sacred cities in India. This festival is unique in its celebration as it marks the arrival of gods and goddesses to the earth and is held 15 days after Diwali (usually in November or late October), coinciding with the full moon night of Kartika month in the Hindu lunar calendar.

  Celebration Details

  Dev Deepawali is a spectacular event, especially for the people of Varanasi, and takes place along the Ghats of the Ganges.

  The city is lit up with thousands of oil lamps (diyas), making it a breathtaking sight to behold, especially during the evening when the lamps reflect on the river.

  The festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness, and it is believed that on this day, the gods visit the Ganges to take a holy dip.

  Key Highlights of Dev Deepawali

  Lighting the Diyas (Oil Lamps):

  Thousands of diyas are lit along the ghats, temples, and homes, creating a stunning sea of lights, symbolizing the spiritual victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

  Ganga Aarti:

  A special Ganga Aarti is performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests chant sacred hymns and offer prayers to the river, accompanied by the lighting of numerous oil lamps.

  Cultural Performances:

  Various traditional dance and music performances take place, showcasing the cultural heritage of Varanasi.

  Fireworks Display:

  Spectacular fireworks light up the sky during the evening, adding to the festive atmosphere.

  Rituals and Devotional Offerings:

  Devotees gather to offer prayers, flowers, and incense at the riverbank. Many also take a holy dip in the river as a part of the purification process.

  Devotional Significance

  Dev Deepawali is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is believed to have killed the demon Tripurasura on this day, bringing peace and prosperity to the world.

  The festival also honors Lord Vishnu and other gods, making it a significant spiritual event for Hindus, especially in the city of Varanasi.

  How to Celebrate or Visit

  When to Visit: The festival takes place around November, usually on the full moon day of Kartika, which is the 15th day after the Diwali festival.

  Where to Visit: Key spots for experiencing Dev Deepawali include the Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi. The riverbanks are beautifully illuminated with thousands of diyas during the evening.

  Dev Deepawali Tips for Travelers

  Best Time: | The night of the festival, around 6 PM to 10 PM, when the lights are at their most vibrant.

  Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, as it gets crowded. Travel light and avoid crowded areas if you're uncomfortable.

  Local Experiences: Participate in puja ceremonies, and take part in the Ganga Aarti for an unforgettable experience of the festival’s spiritual essence.