River & lake cities - Wave 2

Chhath Puja in Varanasi: Ghats, Rituals and Local Traditions

The Varanasi guide names Assi, Dashashwamedh, Tulsi and Rajghat, and describes local Arghya traditions along the Ganges.

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Chhath Puja greeting artwork with river prayers, sunrise, fruit baskets and marigolds.
Arghya and riverside offerings depicted in the supplied greeting artwork. Illustrative artwork, not a photograph of the named location or a current event.

Chhath Puja in Varanasi: Spiritual Grandeur on the Ganges

Varanasi (Kashi) presents a mesmerizing backdrop for Chhath Puja. The ancient city’s iconic stone steps along the Ganges fill with thousands of devotees dressed in traditional attire carrying bamboo baskets (daura).

Popular Varanasi Ghats for Chhath

  • Assi Ghat: Known for vast open space and vibrant morning Usha Arghya gatherings.
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: The heart of Kashi, illuminated with thousands of earthen diyas and brass lamps.
  • Tulsi Ghat and Rajghat: Preferred by local Purvanchali families for family setups and traditional rituals.

Unique Local Customs

In Varanasi, many families hire traditional wooden boats to float slightly offshore while offering Arghya to Surya Dev, creating an breathtaking view of lights reflecting across the Ganges riverfront.

Source: the supplied Wave 2 Chhath Puja article collection. Original article text and headings are retained. Summaries, navigation, artwork and clearly labeled editorial notes were added for this edition.

Patna

The Patna article introduces Gandhi Ghat, Digha Ghat, NIT Ghat, Collectorate Ghat and Danapur, alongside its account of community preparations.

Ranchi

The Ranchi article names Kanke Dam, Ranchi Lake, Hatia Dam and the Subarnarekha riverbanks as settings in its account of local celebrations.

Lucknow

The Lucknow guide describes the Gomti riverfront, gathering grounds and neighborhood water settings in its account of community observance.