Varanasi: Dev Deepawali, the festival of lights celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, transformed Varanasi into a luminous spectacle on Friday. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the chief guest, inaugurated the newly developed Namo Ghat and lit the first ceremonial lamp, marking the beginning of the celebrations. The occasion was graced by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel, and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.
With over 25 lakh lamps illuminating 84 ghats and 700 temples, and a dazzling laser show enhancing the city’s allure, Kashi truly lived up to its reputation as the spiritual and cultural capital of India.
Vice President Inaugurates Namo Ghat, Calls It a Testament to India’s Transformation
Vice President Dhankhar officially handed over the state-of-the-art Namo Ghat to the people of Varanasi, symbolizing the city’s evolution under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. During the inauguration, the Vice President humorously asked if Namo Ghat was the largest in the world. In response, CM Yogi remarked that no such ghat exists anywhere else, leaving the audience in laughter.
In his address, Vice President Dhankhar remarked:
“Namo Ghat defines that visionary leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India is undergoing an extraordinary transformation, making the impossible possible.”
Dev Deepawali Attracts Global Crowd: 15 Lakh Tourists Flock to Kashi
The festival drew an estimated 15 lakh visitors, including tourists from 40 countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and France. Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghats were packed with devotees awaiting the grand Maha Aarti, scheduled for 7 PM. Visitors marveled at the magical atmosphere, capturing the illuminated ghats and temples in their cameras.
The grandeur of Dev Deepawali this year rivals the famous Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya, cementing Kashi’s place as a premier spiritual destination.
CM Yogi Adityanath: ‘Kashi is Unique, A Blend of Tradition and Transformation’
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the city’s remarkable transformation over the last decade, attributing it to the vision of Prime Minister Modi. Speaking at the event, he said:
“Kashi has preserved its rich traditions while embracing modernity. Ten years ago, Ganga water was too polluted for bathing, but today, the river symbolizes purity and renewal.”
The Chief Minister highlighted how the ancient city has become a beacon of progress while staying true to its cultural roots.
A Night to Remember: Dev Deepawali and Namo Ghat Shine Together
This year’s Dev Deepawali is being celebrated on an unprecedented scale, symbolizing Varanasi’s fusion of ancient heritage and modern development. The inauguration of Namo Ghat, with its expansive design and cultural significance, adds a new chapter to the city’s legacy.
As the festival continues to draw global attention, Kashi stands as a testament to India’s ability to honor its past while embracing a progressive future.
