Imagine standing by the sacred Ganges as the first rays of the sun gently kiss the waters, the air resonating with the chanting of priests, and the scent of incense swirling around you. This is not just a morning in Varanasi; it's a spiritual awakening, a connection to something far more significant than ourselves. In Varanasi, where time seems to flow like the holy river itself, the tradition of aarti in Varanasi is an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the divine.
Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, is a city where every stone and street tells a story steeped in ancient traditions. Among the many rituals that define this holy city, the aartis stand out as moments of profound devotion and reverence. These rituals, performed at different times of the day, are not just acts of worship but are immersive experiences that allow one to witness the divine in its most tangible form.
The aartis of Varanasi are as diverse as the city, each with its unique significance, timing, and rituals. From the serene pre-dawn Mangala Aarti to the evening spectacle of the Ganga Aarti, each ceremony offers a different perspective on the city's spiritual life.
The Mangala Aarti in Banaras, held in the early morning, marks the beginning of the day at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The word "Mangala" means optimistic, and this aarti is considered the most sacred of all the rituals performed at the temple. This ritual begins with the first light of dawn, signifying the awakening of Lord Shiva. Devotees gather in the inner sanctum, where priests chant Vedic hymns and offer the deity flowers, fruits, and sweets.
Attending the Mangala Aarti is a profoundly spiritual experience but requires some planning. Visitors are advised to arrive well in advance because it takes place in the early hours. Prior booking is recommended, as the aarti is in the temple's innermost sanctum, and space is limited. Many visitors find it beneficial to stay at accommodations like Stay Banaras, which offer easy access to the temple.
The Mangala Aarti, a cherished ritual in Banaras’ spiritual traditions, is rooted in the belief that the first light of the day is the most auspicious time to seek the deity's blessings. This ritual, performed for centuries, remains a vital part of daily life in Varanasi.
The Ganga Aarti is perhaps the most well-known aartis in Varanasi. This evening ritual is a grand spectacle performed at various ghats, with Dashashwamedh Ghat being the most popular. As the sun sets, the ghats come alive with the sound of bells, drums, and conch shells. Priests dressed in saffron robes perform the aarti with synchronised movements, holding large brass lamps that create a mesmerising sight. The entire riverfront is illuminated by the glow of the lights reflecting off the waters of the Ganges.
This aarti can be viewed from the ghats or the river. Several boat operators offer cruises that allow visitors to witness the aarti from the water, providing a unique vantage point. It's advisable to book these cruises in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. For staying at Stay Banaras, arranging a guided tour or a private boat ride can enhance the experience.
The Ganga aarti is a relatively modern tradition formalised in the early 20th century. However, its roots lie in the ancient practice of offering prayers to the river, which is considered a goddess in Hinduism. The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi symbolises removing darkness and ignorance, bringing light and wisdom to the world.
The Shayan Aarti, or the evening Aarti at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, is a ritual that marks the end of the day's activities and the beginning of the night. It is a time to thank Lord Shiva for his protection throughout the day and seek his blessings for a peaceful night. This aarti is performed with the same reverence as the Mangala Aarti but with a sense of calm and closure. Devotees often describe it as a time of reflection and inner peace.
The Shayan Aarti is less crowded than the Mangala Aarti, making attending more accessible. However, it still requires prior registration, especially for those who wish to be close to the inner sanctum. The aarti is a quiet, reflective experience, ideal for those looking to connect with the divine on a deeper level.
The Shayan Aarti in Varanasi is an ancient practice that symbolises the care of the deity as if putting the god to rest. It reflects the belief that the deity, like any living being, needs rest and care, underscoring the intimate relationship between the worshippers and the divine.
The Saptarishi Aarti is a unique 750-year old ritual performed at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu tradition of seven great sages (Saptarishis). This aarti is performed in the evening and is considered one of the most powerful rituals in the temple. The priests chant special mantras that invoke the blessings of the sages, believed to guide and protect humanity.
Like other aartis at Kashi Vishwanath, the Saptarishi Aarti is held in the inner sanctum and requires prior booking. Visitors staying at places like Stay Banaras can arrange for guided visits to ensure they do not miss this unique spiritual experience.
The Saptarishi Aarti originates in the Vedic traditions, where the seven sages are revered as the seers of divine knowledge. This ceremony is performed to honour their contributions to Hindu philosophy and seek their spiritual guidance.
Experiencing the aartis in Varanasi is not just about witnessing a ritual; it's about becoming a part of a living tradition passed down through generations. Whether you are an early riser
who wishes to greet the day with the Mangala Aarti or someone who prefers the grandeur of the Ganga Aarti at dusk, each aarti offers a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual essence of Varanasi.
In Varanasi, time flows differently. Here, each aarti is a reminder that life is a continuous cycle of beginnings and endings, light and darkness, the seen and the unseen. To be a part of these observances is to touch the eternal, if only for a moment, and to carry that sense of divine connection with you long after you leave this ancient city.
Staying at a place like Stay Banaras, with its proximity to sacred sites like Dashashwamedh Ghat, ensures you can fully immerse yourself in experiences such as the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The hotel's blend of traditional and contemporary comforts makes it the perfect base for exploring the spiritual heart of India.
Stay Banaras offers comprehensive services designed to enhance your stay and ensure a memorable experience in Varanasi. Our bespoke rooms have modern amenities, including air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service, providing comfort and convenience.
We take pride in our personalised service, and our soulful staff is always ready to assist you. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, featuring a selection of local and continental dishes. For those seeking relaxation, we offer in-room spa services and yoga sessions to rejuvenate your body and mind. Learn more about Stay Banaras’s magical experience here!
Additionally, we provide guided tours, including boat rides for the Ganga aarti in Varanasi, curated itineraries, and easy access to the city's most iconic sites, making Stay Banaras not just a place to stay but a gateway to experiencing the essence of Varanasi.
