In a dazzling display of cultural convergence, ambassadors and diplomats
from over 70 nations have gathered in the historic city of Varanasi to partake
in the grand celebrations of Gurupurnima.
Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, the distinguished guests
will bear witness to the lighting of earthen lamps on the auspicious occasion
of Kartik Purnima, alongside the mesmerising Ganga Arti and Dev Deepavali
festivities at Kashi.
They received a warm welcome at Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri airport.
Varanasi, a city steeped in spiritual significance, has played host to
various international events, including G20 and SCO meetings during India’s
presidency. Notably, it was designated as the first SCO cultural city earlier
this year, underscoring its global prominence.
As Varanasi gears up for the grand celebration of ‘Dev Deepawali,’ the
city is adorned with brilliant lights and decorations, setting the stage for a
breathtaking spectacle.
Dev Deepavali, often referred to as “the Diwali of the Gods,” unfolds on
the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartika, embellishing the riverfront
ghats of the Ganges from Ravidas Ghat to Rajghat with over a million earthen
lamps.
The festival promises a visual feast with a show featuring firecrackers,
lasers, and music against the backdrop of the moonlit sky. A green aerial
firecracker display is set to enhance the divine ambiance of the event,
illuminating the sand in front of the Ganga gate of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham.
The festivities, organised by the Uttar Pradesh Government, include a
laser and crackers show along with the illumination of the ghats with a
staggering 12 lakh lamps. A green aerial firecracker show, lasting
approximately 13 minutes, will captivate the audience, showcasing the grandeur
of Dev Diwali in Varanasi.
With over 7 to 8 lakh devotees expected to attend this year’s
celebration, stringent security arrangements are in place to ensure a safe and
joyous experience.
The Deputy Director of the Tourism Department, Rajendra Kumar Rawat,
emphasised the meticulous preparations for the Green Aerial Fire Crackers Show,
promising a breathtaking spectacle that will leave a lasting impression.
As the city resonates with hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, including “Har-Har
Shambhu” and “Shiv Tandav Stotra,” Varanasi is poised to offer a truly
enchanting and spiritually uplifting experience.
Under the vision of Prime Minister Modi and the UP Government, Dev Diwali
has transcended local boundaries, captivating a global audience and cementing
Varanasi’s status as a beacon of cultural and spiritual vibrancy.
Earlier this month, the MEA orchestrated the visit of ambassadors and
diplomats from 50 countries to Ayodhya for the enchanting Deepotsav celebration
on the eve of Diwali, further showcasing India’s rich cultural tapestry.
ANI
