Dev Deepawali, a magnificent event of Varanasi, takes place on Kartik Purnima every year. The city of Varanasi looks like a Jewel on this very night. Almost no corner of the city darkened this evening. The day starts with taking a dip in the holy waters of Ganga in Varanasi and offering Puja. It is believed that the Gods come down from heaven on this day in the Ghats of Varanasi to celebrate the festival.
Devotees decorate the ghats of Varanasi with thousands of oil lamps (Diyas), creating a spectacular sight. Children from the ashrams come out to lighten Diyas on the ghats. There is no division of classes on this day while decorating the banks of the Ganges.
During the festival, not only are the ghats of Varanasi adorned with an array of Diyas, but homes too come alive with vibrant Rangoli and Diyas, creating an atmosphere of joy and devotion. Yet the true highlight, however, is the breathtaking sight of the ghats themselves, where thousands of Diyas illuminate the riverbanks.
Many vendors offer beautiful floating Diyas, delicately adorned with vibrant flowers. These Diyas are often set afloat in the Ganges, carrying prayers of those who believe that by doing so, their wishes will be granted.
It looks like a fair with thousands of devotees and tourists. This grand celebration nowadays is attracting a lot of tourists from abroad too. No doubt that the celebration of Dev Deepawali is a larger than spiritual & religious event. Everyone should experience this festival at some point in life if possible. Being on this day in Varanasi is truly a one-time experience.
