Dev Deepavali

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The festival of Dev Deepavali brings the famous Ghats of Vananasi come to life as thousands of Diyas (earthen lamps) are floated on the waters. Celebrated on the fifteenth day of Diwali, this festival symbolizes the respect for the holy river Ganges, serving as a ritual of tribute. Also known as Kartik Purnima as it is held on the full moon day in the month of Kartik, the celebrations involves great fanfare and feasts. According to local belief, the gods descend on earth during this day which also coincides with the Jain light festival and Guru Nanak Jayanti.

With a view to showcase and promote the cultural heritage of Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism department organizes a four-day Ganga Mahotsav around this period. Although a large number of devotees start assembling from the eleventh day of Prabodhini Ekadasi itself, the official celebration is celebrated on the final day only. Reputed artists and performers from all parts of the country come and perform on the occasion of the Ganga Mahotsava, resulting in unforgettable celebrations.

Hundreds of pilgrims camp by riverside decorating the entire riverbank with tiny earthen lamps to serves as a mark of welcome to the Gods descending from above. Almost all of the Ghats at Varanasi witness evening arti ritual with the multitude chanting the hymns.