It seems the biggest event in Varanasi is the Ganga Arti in the evening. I've experienced it by land, and by boat. Thursday night, Narayan and I walked over to the Dashashwamed Ghat, which is where evening Arti is held. I captured some videos of this beautiful ceremony, but they are long and I need a better internet connection to upload them. Do check back!
In the meantime, here are some pictures...
These are three of the 5 Brahmin priests that were performing Arti that night. Their ceremony takes about 45 minutes and involves waving incense, flames, fans, and peacock feathers to Mother Ganga.
Here are all five priests.
The picture above might give you an idea of the size of the crowd. Hundreds of people attend this ceremony every night. People attend on land and by boat. You can't see the people attending by boat - they're behind me.
Friday night, Narayan arranged a spot for me on a tour boat. It was a double decker boat, with chairs set up on the upper level. This picture gives you a better idea of the amount of people attending the ceremony.
To my surprise and delight, there were seven additional priests performing Arti. I couldn't see them through the crowds the night before. You can zoom in to see them above.
So much light ✨️🙏🔥
This was an offering tray they sell to the people attending the ceremony.
Jai Mata Ganga! (Hail Mother Ganges)
Astounding trip, incredible POV and kudos for facing your fears.
Amazing=you!!
Wonderful pictures! And explanations of the ceremony & crowd. The best picture is the last one of you with the offering tray. How do they do the colorful marking on your forehead?