In the sacred city of Kasi, also known as Varanasi or Benares, religious events and temple rituals are deeply intertwined with the city's spiritual fabric. Kasi holds immense significance in Hinduism and is revered as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ghats along the banks of the holy river Ganges draw millions of pilgrims and devotees each year. Let's delve into the religious events, temple-wise rituals, aartis, their timings, and significance in Kasi.
1. Maha Shivaratri:
Celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva, Maha Shivaratri holds immense significance in Kasi.
Devotees throng to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to offer prayers and perform rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entire city reverberates with chants, hymns, and the sound of bells during this auspicious occasion.
2. Ganga Aarti:
Every evening, the Dashashwamedh Ghat in Kasi witnesses
the grand spectacle of Ganga Aarti, a ritual dedicated to the river Ganges. Priests perform
elaborate rituals with lamps, incense, and flowers, accompanied by devotional songs and prayers.
Devotees gather on the ghats to witness this mesmerizing event and offer their reverence to the holy river.
3. Pind Daan:
An important ritual for Hindus, especially for honoring
deceased ancestors, Pind Daan is performed at various ghats in Kasi. It involves offering rice balls
(pindas) and prayers to the departed souls, seeking their blessings and liberation. Pilgrims visit Kasi
specifically to perform Pind Daan and fulfill their ancestral duties.
4. Dev Deepawali:
Celebrated on the occasion of Kartik Purnima, Dev Deepawali
is a grand festival in Kasi. It marks the celebration of gods' victory over demons and the return of Lord Shiva to Kasi.
The entire city is adorned with lamps, and the ghats witness colorful processions, cultural performances, and religious rituals.
5. Panchakroshi Yatra:
A traditional pilgrimage circuit around Kasi, the Panchakroshi
Yatra covers a distance of approximately 15 kilometers and encompasses various sacred sites, temples, and ghats.
Devotees undertake this yatra to seek spiritual blessings and cleanse themselves of sins.
Places To Visit Near VARANASI, ALSO KNOWN AS KASI OR BANARAS
