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Varanasi, the city of light and learning, is gearing up for a celestial spectacle as it prepares to celebrate Dev Deepawali. In a breathtaking fusion of tradition and technology, over 10 lakh diyas and a 3D laser show are set to illuminate the Varanasi ghats, promising an unforgettable experience for all.
A Grand Celebration: The Diwali of the Gods
Celebrated on the full moon of the Hindu month of Kartika (Kartika Purnima), Dev Deepawali is a festival steeped in mythology and spiritual reverence. It is believed that on this auspicious day, the gods descend from the heavens to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganga. To welcome them, the entire stretch of Varanasi’s 84 ghats is transformed into a shimmering river of light, a sight that has drawn pilgrims and tourists from across the globe for centuries.
Record-Breaking Illumination: 10 Lakh Diyas on the Ganga
This year, the scale of the celebration is set to create a new benchmark. The lighting of over 10 lakh (one million) earthen lamps is a monumental undertaking, involving thousands of volunteers, local residents, and city workers. From Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat, every stone step will flicker with the warm glow of these traditional diyas, creating a breathtaking visual connecting the earth to the starry heavens. The reflection of these countless flames on the serene waters of the Ganga promises a moment of pure, unadulterated magic.
A Modern Twist: 3D Laser Show on Varanasi Ghats
Adding a futuristic dimension to this ancient ritual is the introduction of a state-of-the-art 3D projection mapping and laser show. This modern marvel will use the historic buildings along the ghats as its canvas, narrating the timeless tales associated with Kashi (Varanasi’s ancient name). Spectators will witness vibrant depictions of Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura—the event Dev Deepawali commemorates—along with chronicles of the Ganga’s descent to Earth. This fusion of tradition with cutting-edge technology highlights Varanasi’s unique ability to embrace the new while holding its ancient soul intact.
Elaborate Arrangements for a Divine Spectacle
The district administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the event is both grand and safe. Elaborate arrangements are being made for crowd management, security, and traffic regulation to handle the massive influx of visitors. Cleanliness drives are in full swing, and special boat services are being organised for those who wish to witness the spectacle from the river.
The experience will be multi-sensory, with the air thick with the fragrance of incense, the sound of temple bells echoing across the water, and the unforgettable sight of a million lights. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is more than a festival; it is a spiritual experience that encapsulates the essence of India.
