Festivals and special events celebrated in Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest and most spiritual cities in the world, is a hub of religious, cultural, and social festivities. Whether it is the grandeur of Hindu festivals or the local cultural events, Varanasi offers a unique blend of spirituality, art, and history. Here’s a look at some of the most significant festivals and special events celebrated in Varanasi:

1. Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali, or the "Festival of Lights of the Gods," is one of the most mesmerizing festivals celebrated in Varanasi. This festival falls fifteen days after Diwali, on the full moon night of Kartik. Dev Deepawali marks the day when Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura. The ghats of Varanasi, especially the Dashashwamedh Ghat, come alive with thousands of oil lamps and diyas (small oil lamps), creating a surreal atmosphere. The evening culminates with a grand Ganga Aarti, which is one of the city's most iconic and soul-stirring events.

2. Holi

The festival of colors, Holi, is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Varanasi. The celebrations here are unique, where people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. The ghats are decorated with flowers, and locals throw colored powders, dance to the beats of dholaks, and sing traditional folk songs. A particularly famous celebration takes place at the Tulsi Ghat, where Holi is celebrated in a grand and traditional manner, filled with cultural performances.

3. Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with immense devotion in Varanasi. On this night, temples across the city are thronged by devotees who keep a night-long vigil, offering prayers and chanting mantras in honor of Shiva. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest temples in India, witnesses a surge of pilgrims on this occasion. Devotees fast, sing bhajans (devotional songs), and offer milk, honey, and water to the Shiv Lingas (symbol of Lord Shiva). The sight of thousands of pilgrims gathered at the ghats and temples creates a mystical, spiritual aura that is unmatched.

4. Ganga Dussehra

Ganga Dussehra celebrates the descent of the holy river Ganga to the earth from heaven. Observed on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, this festival is dedicated to the river Ganga. The ghats are decorated with flowers, and devotees take ritual baths in the Ganges, believing that doing so will purify their soul and wash away sins. Special prayers are held at the ghats, and boat rides along the river are arranged to provide a serene view of the festivities. The event marks the day when Lord Vishnu sent the river Ganga to Earth, and its significance is celebrated with grandeur.

5. Buddha Jayanti

Varanasi, a city that holds deep significance in Buddhism, also celebrates Buddha Jayanti, the birth, enlightenment, and death anniversary of Lord Buddha. The event is marked by solemn prayers, processions, and rituals at the Sarnath Buddhist site, located just a few kilometers away from Varanasi.

6. Ganga Aarti

While not a festival per se, the Ganga Aarti held every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-experience event for anyone visiting Varanasi. It is one of the most beautiful and spiritual rituals, where priests perform a synchronized aarti (offering of fire) to the river Ganga. The flames, chanting, and musical instruments create a deeply moving experience for both locals and tourists. The entire event is filled with devotion, creating an atmosphere of purity and connection with the divine. 

7. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Festivals

BHU, one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions, organizes several cultural and academic events throughout the year. The most famous among them is the "BHU Youth Festival," where students participate in various competitions ranging from music, dance, drama, and literary events. This festival brings out the artistic and cultural spirit of the youth in Varanasi, adding to the city’s rich cultural diversity.

Soil2Soul Expeditions: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary 
For those who wish to explore Varanasi in a more intimate and insightful way, Soil2Soul Expeditions offers a unique opportunity to experience the city like never before. Their bespoke tours take you through Varanasi’s hidden gems, allow you to participate in local festivals, and give you a chance to interact with the people who make the city what it is. Whether you're exploring the sacred ghats, learning about ancient rituals, or experiencing the lively local festivals, Soil2Soul Expeditions offers an immersive and authentic experience that allows you to connect with the essence of Varanasi.
In conclusion, Varanasi is not just a city; it is an experience. The festivals and special events celebrated here offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural fabric, and with Soil2Soul Expeditions, travelers can engage with these traditions in a meaningful and personalized way. If you seek to truly understand and experience the soul of this timeless city, Soil2Soul Expeditions offers the perfect way to do so.