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Celebration Months : Months of October and November

Religion : Hindu

Importance : Worship of Ganges River

An important occasion for people of Varanasi, Ganga Festival is celebrated every year on the banks of the sacred Hindu river called Ganges. The river is of paramount importance and relevance to Indians who worship it in many ways. The river forms integral part of the lives of those who live on its banks. Since time immemorial, Ganges has been considered a holy water body and its status is considered equivalent to Hindu deities.

Celebrated on full moon in the month of Kartik, Ganga festival is believed to be the day when deities descent for heaven to earth in order to bath in this extremely pious river. The festival is celebrated by burning "diyas" or the earthen lamps on the banks of the river. As the entire atmosphere reverberates with the chanting of hymns, one feels the spiritual aura taking over him. The mystic look of thousands of people tasking a holy dip, in the sacred waters in wee hours reflects the inherent belief of devotees in the sanctity of Ganges.

A number of cultural programs are organized on this special day; people take part in competitions of marital arts and boat races. The banks are occupied by thousands of people belonging to different caste, creed and communities. Dance and music are the inherent part of Ganga festival. The place has earned the distinction of being visited by a number of music exponents like Bhimsen Joshi, Bismillah Kahn, Amjad Ali Khan, Zakir Hussein, and Bal Murli Krishnan whose breathtaking performances add charm to the festivities.

The festival is important form the religious and cultural point of view to Hindus who take part in the festival with full zeal and faith.