Dev Deepawali Mahotsav (Kartik Purnima)

Dev Deepawali, celebrated on Kartik Purnima, is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant festivals of Kashi (Varanasi). It is believed that on this auspicious day, all Gods and Goddesses descend to Earth to take a holy dip in Maa Ganga and to witness the divine illumination of Kashi.

 

Several revered legends are associated with Dev Deepawali:

1.Victory of Lord Shiva over Tripurasura

2.Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya

3.Legend of King Divodasa of Kashi

Spiritual Importance

Dev Deepawali represents:

• The removal of ignorance and negativity
• The victory of divine knowledge and purity
• The presence of celestial energies in Kashi

According to legends:

• The Gods celebrated their victory after Lord Shiva destroyed the demon Tripurasura
• Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after victory over Lanka
• Gods and goddesses illuminated Kashi after King Divodasa lifted the ban on their entry

Since ancient times, this day has been marked by the lighting of lamps to symbolize the removal of darkness and the triumph of light over ignorance.

Gangotri Seva Samiti organizes Dev Deepawali Mahotsav on a grand scale every year at Dashashwamedh Ghat, featuring:

• Maha Ganga Aarti by 21 Brahmins

On this sacred occasion, Gangotri Seva Samiti performs special worship (Puja) of Maa Ganga. A 108-kilogram idol of Maa Ganga, exquisitely crafted from Ashtadhatu (eight sacred metals), is ceremonially worshipped with Vedic rituals, symbolizing reverence, purification, and divine grace. The number 108 holds deep spiritual significance in Sanatan Dharma, further enhancing the sanctity of the worship.

• Decoration of Ghats with innumerable earthen lamps, creating a heavenly.

This unique celebration reflects national integrity, spirituality, and cultural pride, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from around the world.