Varanasi Celebrates Makar Sankranti with Spiritual Fervor and Festive Joy
Varanasi experienced a surge of devotion as Makar Sankranti celebrations unfolded with great enthusiasm. The city's famous Ganga ghats attracted thousands of devotees who took holy dips and offered prayers to mark the auspicious occasion.
Ghats and Temples Overflow with Devotees
Major ghats like Dashashwamedh, Panchganga, and Assi were packed with eager crowds throughout the day. After completing their sacred baths in the Ganga, devotees made their way to prominent temples for darshan.
Long queues formed outside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Bada Ganesh Temple, and Durga Temple. People waited patiently for hours to catch a glimpse of the deities and seek blessings.
The streets leading to the ghats faced severe congestion, particularly near Panchganga Ghat. Narrow lanes struggled to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims, creating a vibrant but crowded atmosphere across the city.
Special Offerings and Temple Decorations
A sweet highlight of the celebrations was the special bhog offered at Baba Vishwanath Temple. Devotees enjoyed chikki and kite shringar, creating a perfect blend of taste and festive spirit.
Baba Masannath Temple at Manikarnika Ghat received a beautiful festive makeover for the occasion. The Baba Masannath Seva Samiti decorated the temple premises with fragrant flowers and colorful kites.
After worship ceremonies, the deity received traditional treats including dhundha, lai, patti, and various sweets. This added to the devotional atmosphere that permeated the ancient city.
Kite Flying Creates Colorful Sky Spectacle
Kite flying frenzy gripped Varanasi as homes transformed into mini celebration spots. Many residents set up DJ systems on their rooftops, playing music while flying kites.
Kites soared high above roads, open grounds, and rooftops throughout the city. The sky turned into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors as kites of different shapes and sizes danced in the breeze.
This playful display added an artistic dimension to the celebrations, blending traditional devotion with contemporary festive enjoyment.
Pilgrims Arrive from Nearby Districts
Devotees from surrounding districts traveled to Varanasi specifically for Makar Sankranti observances. Many arrived at Cantt railway station on Thursday to participate in the rituals.
These pilgrims joined local residents in bathing in the holy Ganga waters and performing darshan and worship at Kashi's numerous temples. The combined Makar Sankranti and Magh Mela celebrations created a reverse flow of pilgrims into the city.
This influx contributed to what locals described as a joyful jam, with the city's spiritual energy becoming palpable through the massive gatherings and collective devotion.
