Varanasi Celebrates Dev Deepawali with Fireworks, Laser Show, and Spiritual Splendor

Friday, 15 November 2024: The ancient city of Varanasi shone brightly as it celebrated Dev Deepawali 2024, an occasion known as the “Diwali of the Gods.” The event marked Kartik Purnima, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists to the ghats of the Ganga for a night of spiritual and cultural grandeur. Dignitaries, including UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar, were present, enhancing the significance of the celebrations.

The sky at night lit up with stunning fireworks, while a mesmerizing laser and sound show at Chet Singh Ghat captivated the audience. Moreover, devotees chanted “Har Har Mahadev” as they offered prayers, enjoyed boat rides, and soaked in the spiritual atmosphere of ghats lit with thousands of oil lamps. A majestic Ganga Aarti and a grand Aarti at Saryu Ghat in Ayodhya added to the celestial aura of the festival.

Dev Deepawali 2024: Preserving Culture Amid Transformation

Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi Adityanath praised Kashi’s unique blend of tradition and progress, highlighting its transformation over the last decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He said, “Kashi has preserved its cultural and spiritual heritage while undergoing remarkable development. Ten years ago, Ganga’s pollution deterred even bathing, but today, under the Namami Gange project, its water is clean enough to drink.”

The Chief Minister lauded Kashi as a symbol of spiritual excellence and a hub for global tourism. “Our Kashi is unique across the three worlds. With Baba Vishwanath’s blessings, the uninterrupted flow of Mother Ganga, and its sacred pilgrimages, Kashi stands as an iconic spiritual and religious center,” he added.

Take a look at some of the glimpses from Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali 2024. The videos below showcase the grandeur and spiritual energy people experienced on friday.

What is Dev Deepawali?

Dev Deepawali, celebrated fifteen days after Diwali on Kartik Purnima, is one of the most revered festivals in Varanasi. It is believed to be the night when gods descend to earth to celebrate. The ghats of the Ganga come alive with millions of oil lamps, symbolizing light dispelling darkness.

Devotees perform rituals, take holy dips in the river, and offer prayers to Baba Vishwanath. The festival is also a tribute to the city’s rich spiritual legacy, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists who witness the enchanting blend of faith, tradition, and modernity.

Highlights of Dev Deepawali 2024

1. Fireworks Display: A vibrant display of fireworks illuminated the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere.
2. Laser and Sound Show: The cutting-edge laser show at Chet Singh Ghat was a major crowd-puller, showcasing a visual narrative of Varanasi’s heritage.
3. Ganga Aarti: The ghats resonated with the chants of Har Har Mahadev during the grand Aarti, which is the spiritual highlight of the festival.
4. Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance performances added to the festive fervor, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.
5. Boat Rides: Many enjoyed boat rides on the Ganga, experiencing the glowing ghats from the water.

Plan Your Visit for 2025

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is an experience that stays with you forever. The sight of the ghats glowing with countless oil lamps, the sound of devotional chants, and the beauty of fireworks lighting up the sky create a magical atmosphere. It’s a night when the city feels alive with energy, faith, and celebration. Whether you are looking for peace, spirituality, or just something extraordinary, Dev Deepawali is the perfect time to visit Varanasi. Come and be a part of this special occasion that will leave you with memories you will treasure for a lifetime.