The magical Aarthi. Varanasi is special.
We were eagerly looking forward to the Ganga Aarthi which is spectacular. We had a choice of watching aarthi from the boat, for the panoramic view or from the river bank. Our escort Naik R K Singh said he had already arranged seats for us up close, so it was from the river bank.
He had suggested while on the boat that we should get there early as devotees begin to occupy seats very early. We got there early enough, but a few devotees were already there right in front in the VIP area. However, two places were reserved in the front row. Raghu gracefully let Tara take the place next to Vatsala!
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| Right in front! |
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Gives us an idea as to the number of devotees attending. It has been a long wait!  Devotees co-operated with the staff when they requested them to move on and not stand in the passage. Many would come down to get a better look and go back after a quick see.There were announcements from the mike guiding them.Time did pass fast as I watched people and the preparations being made. I noticed an old lady negotiate for a place closer to the Aarthi.They said she could sit in the passage as the aarthi was about to begin. She touched her knees to indicate that was not possible. Somehow a little bit of place was created for her to sit and watch the aarthi. I have seen this happen often in temples, An earnest devotee does get accommodated!
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Special Thanks to Vatsala for the videos!
Both Vatsala and Tara said music is divine
Blowing the conch
Doopa Arathi
Deepa Arathi
Comments
Yes, this was an important part of our trip.