Ganga Mahotsav is the celebration of the exquisite art and culture of the country at Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, situated in Uttar Pradesh. This five day long carnival celebrated in the month of November is one of the most cherished festivals of India which brings together the finest and vibrant manifestations of culture of India on a single platform. Sant Ravidas Ghat along the bank of sacred Ganga River in Varanasi forms the venue for this festival. The festival greatly helps in augmenting the tourism of the region as well as providing a nationwide exposure to the skilled craftsmen and artisans of the state. It also unites the art and culture of varied global communities through showcasing vast array of art, crafts, cuisine and unique rituals.
Performances at Ganga Mahotsav
Hosted by the oldest living city of the world, Ganga Mahotsav aims to promote the tradition of classical music and dance. Mesmerizing and soulful performances by the maestros create an enchanting aura rendering a memorable experience to the art lovers.
Ganga Mahotsav is a reverence to the cultural and religious beliefs related to the sacred river which has nourished the civilizations of Varanasi since long. Several exponents hailing from the cultural arena of India have rendered splendid performances at Ganga Mahotsav encasing the place in a celestial aura. Some of the prominent participants of the festival include Zakir Hussain, Zila Khan, Amjad Ali Khan, Bhimsen Joshi, Sujat Khan, Girija Devi, Birju Maharaj, Vilayat Khan, Bal Murli Krishnan, Ustad Bismillah Khan, Pundit Chhanulal Misra and many others.
Other Features of Ganga Mahotsav
The added charm of Ganga Mahotsav is the Shilp Mela held daily throughout the festival where handicrafts by various artisans are exhibited. Dev Deepawali also coincides with this festival in which numerous earthen lamps, also known as Diyas, are lit by the devotees. These earthen lamps floating over the holy Ganga River in the full moon night of Kartik is a bewitching vista during Ganga Mahotsav. It is believed that during Dev Deepawali Gods descend down to the sacred river to take bath. Ganga Mahotsav invites tourists not only from the country but also from the world to partake in the sacred rituals and cultural extravaganza of the festival. Surya Namaskar is performed by the devotees while taking bath in the river during early morning when the sun peeps out at the horizon. Taking bath at the Ganga during Ganga Mahotsav is believed to wash away the mortal sins.
