Festivals in Varanasi: Celebrating the Colours of Tradition

India is this fantastic nation with so many wonderful festivals. It’s always like a big celebration! And then there’s Varanasi, a unique city that feels like a festival. Every day since so many people travel there to celebrate. It’s not any city; it’s the greatest town on the planet, with festivities you won’t find anyplace else. Varanasi is even known as the City of Lighting, and it’s not because of the lamps—it’s a city that is sparkling with joy. So, if you’re looking for a fun experience, check your schedule. Moreover, see if you can catch one of these fantastic festivals in Varanasi. It’s like entering a secret world of fun and excitement!

Dev Deepavali

It occurs 15 days following Diwali and is one of the most capturing festivals in Varanasi. This festival is like a fantastic day for the residents of Varanasi. Moreover, they believe gods travel down to Earth to take a dip in the sacred Ganges River. The entire area turns into a fantasy world. With countless lights, particularly near the Varanasi Ghats, it creates a fascinating spectacle. The buildings and temples glow like a rainbow. Casting reflections in the river and making everything seem dreamlike. Pilgrims, like privileged visitors, rise early in the morning for a bath in the Ganges River. A ceremony known as Kartik Snan. Thus, making this occasion a one-of-a-kind and meaningful experience. Pilgrims also take part in Annadaan (food donation), a lovely practice.

• It occurs two weeks after Diwali and occurs on the full moon night known as “Kartik Purnima.”
• Throughout the festival, clay lamps are positioned. Additionally, lighted along the ghats, beginning in the morning and throughout the day.
• The oil-filled lamps represent the try to illuminate the surroundings.
• Preparations include the washing and drying of the mud diyas in holy water.
• This year’s Dev Deepawali is on November 26, 2023. Thus, promising a spectacular display of tradition and warmth from the sparkling lamps.
  

Chhath Puja

During this time, you’ll see lots of women wearing beautiful sarees. Standing in the river up to their knees, and praying to the Sun God. It’s one of the most amazing festivals in India. People from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh celebrate it. Moreover, they share things like fruits and sugarcane as part of saying thanks for the good crops they had. This festival is old and used to be all about thanking the Sun God for helping with the crops. Chhath Puja holds great significance for those who celebrate it.

For many, offering prayers to the Sun in the river is the most devoted thing you can do. Thus, folks from nearby villages come to join in the celebration in Varanasi. It’s like a colorful and spiritual celebration by the river!

• Chhath Puja is celebrated after Diwali, and the date varies each year.
• This year, it falls on Sunday, November 19, 2023.
• Women start their fasting during Chhath Puja by eating jaggery and roti. This happens between 8 AM and 10 AM, a ritual called Kharna Puja.
• The timing of this Puja depends on the sunrise.
• People believe that Chhathi Maiya fulfills the wishes of women. Especially those who observe this challenging fast. Thus, bringing happiness to their families, good health, success, and a long life.
  

Makar Sankranti

It is an important Hindu holiday, that involves believers worshipping Surya. This vibrant festival is a remarkable celebration in Varanasi. India’s spiritual capital provides a memorable experience that captures emotions. During this festive season, the town is decorated with a fascinating atmosphere. The city becomes a center of spirituality and devotion. Additionally, every year on January 14th, Makar Sankranti falls. Residents get busy cooking snacks treats, and unique meals related to the celebration.

This celebration is one of India’s sacred festivals. Moreover, a significant inclusion on the list of festivals in Varanasi. It attracts Hindu devotees and Naga Sadhus from all over the country. Those who come together for a holy experience. Thus, creating an enjoyable and beautiful atmosphere.

• Makar Sankranti in Varanasi is like a big kite party where the sky gets filled with colorful kites all day long.
• People from different parts of the country do special rituals. This happens at different ghats in Varanasi.
• Varanasi is not only a religious place. Yet, it also has unique things to do, making your stay there unforgettable.
• The city becomes super lively with an artistic kite festival. As a result, turning every street into a colorful and exciting place.
• They even have kite-flying competitions in Varanasi with different neighborhoods. Thus, adding an extra dose of fun to the celebration.
• Makar Sankranti is a big festival celebrated all over the country with lots of joy and splendor.

In Varanasi, this day is extra special, filled with grand celebrations and excitement. So, why wait? If you can, visit Varanasi this Makar Sankranti 2024 and be part of the magic!

Mahashivratri

Shiva is the supreme God. Varanasi is a city that throws a big party for Shiva during Mahashivratri. In 2024, the festival will fall on Friday, March 8th. Varanasi is a religious place, and they decorate all the Shiva temples for this special day. The most exciting part is the grand wedding procession of Shiva. It starts from the Mahamrityunjaya Temple.

• Mahashivratri is like a huge festival celebrating Shiva’s wedding.
• People in Varanasi love Shiva, and they shout “Har-Har Mahadev” to praise him.
• Late at night, Shiva’s devotees stand in line to see Lord Baba Vishwanath. Additionally, they offer Ganga water, bel leaves, and milk for a special bath.
• On Mahashivratri, Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi becomes packed with lots of devotees. Thus, creating a wonderful atmosphere of celebration and worship.
  

Holi

Holi in Varanasi is celebrated in a special way. It starts with Holika Dahan. People make a big bonfire on the night before Holi to remember the victory of good over evil. On Holi, people have loads of fun throwing colours at each other. This colorful fun goes on until the afternoon. In the evening, everyone changes into their fanciest clothes. People enjoy the celebration with family and friends. They even have a Bhang that makes the festival even more exciting. So, it’s a mix of traditions and lots of happiness.

• Holi in Banaras is one-of-a-kind, combining tradition and festivity.
• Varanasi is a must-see for tourists, and adding Holi to the list makes it even more magical.
• The festival lasts two vibrant days in the city.
• You can join the locals in enjoying Holi. Mixed colors are thrown around in a joyful manner, and you can watch the action from houses.
• Holi is more than a color festival; it’s a nationwide celebration of the end of winter.
• A trip to Varanasi contains more than Holi. It also includes breathtaking temple views and the city’s own charm. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

A quick tip

One thing to keep in mind is that Varanasi is India’s spiritual center. Dress to keep respect and avoid unwanted attention. Furthermore, it is best to arrange your vacation packages well in advance. During festivals, Varanasi can get quite busy. Thus, planning beforehand will help you avoid any needless headaches.

Conclusion

Known as one of Hinduism’s holiest cities and is known for its festivals and spirituality. It is a city where you can visit many different areas. Furthermore, this place reflects various cultures such as Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, and Islam. Similarly, festivals in Varanasi: Celebrating the Colours of Tradition is all that you must explore.

Every festival is celebrated by all with love. Since ages ago, Varanasi has been an important cultural and religious hub in India. Moreover, the city is also known as the Spiritual Capital of India, City of Knowledge, Temple City, City of Shiva, and City of Lamps, among other things. These names reflect the many sections. Thus, identities of this one-of-a-kind and treasured capital.