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Dev Deepawali

By Niharika Rai
Dev Deepawali
Dev Deepawali celebration transforms the ancient city of Varanasi into a glowing paradise.

Just 15 days after Diwali, Varanasi is set to reverberate again with yet another Diwali - Dev Deepawali. Celebrated every year on the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartik, Dev Deepawali is the Diwali of the Gods.

Significance

Ancient texts mention Gods descending to Earth on this auspicious day to take a bath in the holy Ganges. The most famous legend associated with this festival is of Lord Shiva defeating Tripurasura, a collective name of the demon Tarakasur’s sons. They resided in 3 cities or forts granted to them as a boon for their penance and had created havoc.

Lord Shiva Tripurasura

Image Credit: http://www.mahavyoma.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tripura1.jpg

Lord Shiva upon being requested by the Gods got ready to kill them. They could only be killed when the 3 forts would align in a straight line. The moment it did, Lord Shiva pulled the bow string and with a single arrow destroyed them. The Gods celebrated this victory as Dev Deepawali.

Where to celebrate

Varanasi is the prime location if one wants to witness the grandeur of this festival. The ancient city of Kashi transforms into a heaven of lights on the night of Dev Deepawali.

❂ An elaborate and special Ganga aarti takes place at the Dasaswamedh Ghat.

❂ Rows of diyas or earthen lamps are lit up along all the ghats of Varanasi. The riverfront looks spectacular with diyas organised in various symbols like Om, Swastik.

Image

Image Credit: Pexels

❂ One can watch laser shows narrating the history of Varanasi and stories linked to this festival at Chet Singh Ghat.

❂ For an even better experience a boat ride along the ghats gives a good view at night.

❂ The highlight of this festival is the 15 minute fireshow which paints the sky of Varanasi in hues of various colors.

Dev Deepawali blends ancient traditions and modern celebrations beautifully - pilgrims following rituals regarding Kartik Purnima to youngsters trying to capture every bit of the colorful celebration. No matter the way of celebrating, all are connected by a common truth- the celebration of victory of good over evil.

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