Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat (river bank) in Varanasi, where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place every evening. The ghat is also a lively place for boat rides, shopping, photography, and witnessing the rituals of life and death.
Varanasi is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India and a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the spiritual and cultural richness of Hinduism. There are many places to visit in Varanasi, but one of the most famous and sacred ones is Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat History
The ghat has a long and rich history and has been witness to many important events and personalities. The ghat was renovated by the Maratha ruler Baji Rao I in 1735, and later by his queen Mastani. The ghat was also visited by many saints, poets, kings, and celebrities, such as Tulsidas, Kabir, Rani Lakshmibai, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Amitabh Bachchan.
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The ghat is also known for its spectacular Ganga Aarti, which is a ritual worship of the river goddess Ganga, performed every evening by several priests with lamps, incense, bells, and chants. The ghat is also a lively place for boat rides, shopping, photography, and witnessing the rituals of life and death.
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
The Ganga Aarti is one of the most amazing sights to witness in Varanasi, as it fills the air with a divine aura and a festive atmosphere. The aarti starts soon after sunset and lasts for about 45 minutes.
Every evening, the ghat is filled with people who come to watch the event, and many also participate by offering flowers, candles, and diyas (earthen lamps) to the river. The aarti is also shown live on a large LED screen at the ghat so that everyone can have a clear view of it.
Aarti Names and Timings at Dashashwamedh Ghat:
Ganga Aarti:
- This is the most famous and spectacular Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening at the ghat. It is performed by a group of young priests who offer fire, incense, flowers, and chants to the holy river Ganga.
- The Aarti starts soon after sunset and lasts for about 45 minutes. The timings vary depending on the season, but usually, it begins around 6:45 p.m. in winter and 7:00 p.m. in summer.
Shiva Aarti:
- This is another Aarti ceremony that takes place every morning at the ghat. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is believed to have visited this ghat along with Lord Brahma. The Aarti is performed by a group of priests who offer milk, water, flowers, and chants to the Shiva lingam installed on the ghat.
- The Aarti starts before sunrise and lasts for about 30 minutes. The timings vary depending on the season, but usually, it begins around 5:00 a.m. in winter and 4:30 a.m. in summer. Devotees can participate in the Aarti by offering their prayers and donations to the priests.
Bhagwan Vishnu Aarti:
- This is a special Aarti ceremony that takes place only on Tuesdays and Saturdays at the ghat. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is considered to be the preserver of the universe. The Aarti is performed by a group of priests who offer fruits, sweets, flowers, and chants to the idol of Lord Vishnu placed on the ghat. The Aarti starts after sunset and lasts for about 15 minutes.
- The timings vary depending on the season, but usually, it begins around 7:15 p.m. in winter and 7:30 p.m. in summer. Devotees can join the Aarti by offering their devotion and blessings to Lord Vishnu.
What Else to Do and See at Dashashwamedh Ghat?
Apart from the Ganga Aarti, there are many other things to do and see at Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can take a boat ride on the river and admire the sunrise or sunset, or explore the nearby temples, shrines, and markets. You can also witness the rituals of life and death that take place at the ghat, such as weddings, cremations, and holy dips. You can also interact with the locals, sadhus (holy men), pilgrims, and tourists who frequent the ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a place where you can experience the essence of Varanasi, its history, culture, and spirituality. It is a place where you can feel the presence of God in every element of nature. It is a place that will leave you mesmerized, enlightened, and blessed.
