Ganga Aarti

Hinduism is a religion of complex and symbolic rituals, incorporating plays of light, color, and bodily movements that represent a careful aesthetic and artistic pursuit of great cultural value.

For the Aarti ritual, a metal tray is typically used, adorned with flowers, upon which a metal or terracotta lamp is placed, filled with clarified butter, called Ghee, or oil, to fuel the flame that burns a cotton wick. In particular cases, camphor, a white waxy substance with a strong aromatic odor, is used instead of cotton. This variation holds a precise symbolic significance: camphor burns without leaving any residue, symbolizing the ego, which, once spiritual realization is attained, disappears without a trace.

The Ganga Aarti is performed on a stage by a group of young Pandits (Hindu priests) dressed in saffron-colored attire. During the ceremony, they move slowly with precise movements and gestures, offering the lamp to the deity seven times, then turning to the devotees in the same manner before returning to the deity. They then make four additional rounds toward the deity's feet, two at the navel, three at the face, and seven more rounds around the entire figure. Meanwhile, believers cup their hands over the fire, bringing the purifying force of the flame to their foreheads, while the lamp is circulated among the crowd.

The Aarti ceremony is accompanied by religious Bhajan chants, prayer texts set to simple melodies, with the constant sound of ceremonial bells, gongs, and drums reverberating in the air. Additionally, the sound of sacred conch shells, which have always held a significant place in Hindu mythology as one of Vishnu's four weapons that harnessed the primordial sound of creation, is used in the ceremony to disperse negative energies and ward off evil forces.

This perfect blend, coupled with the fragrant scent of sandalwood, creates a magical and enchanting atmosphere, imparting a sense of harmony, joy, and reassurance to visitors.

Although the Ganga Aarti is performed twice daily, it still attracts many tourists, and finding a place on the steps can be challenging. The ceremony itself lasts about half an hour, but it is advisable to arrive early to ensure participation. Alternatively, one can watch comfortably by purchasing a boat ticket and viewing it directly on the Ganges River or from the terrace of a nearby commercial establishment.