Festivals and Events in Varanasi

Varanasi also known as Benaras or Kashi in the state of Uttar Pradesh is situated in the banks of Ganges. This oldest city of India dates back to the time of Rig Veda and is the oldest continually inhabited city of the world. The city of Varanasi being rich in its cultural heritage and tradition is the cultural capital of India. The cultural life of this city of fairs, festivals and feasts is associated with river Ganges. Mainly the Festivals and Events of Varanasi is celebrated with religious fervor. Varanasi is one of the most famous pilgrimages for the Hindus. It is commonly believed that one who dies and is cremated in Varanasi gets liberated from the cycle of births and rebirths. Festivals and Events of Varanasi occurs all the year round because of its rich cultural heritage.

Dev Deepavali in Varanasi is celebrated in Varanasi with great devotion and dedication. This event is held on the full-moon day in the month of Kartik and is celebrated on the fifteenth day of Diwali. Through this festival people of Varanasi pay tribute to the river Ganges. Coinciding with Jain light festivals and Guru Nanak Jayanti on the Dev Deepavali the river Ganges is adorned beautifully with lights to welcome Gods on Earth.

Buddha Purnima in Varanasi which is celebrated on the day of full moon day of the Hindu month of Vaisakh commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautama Buddha. Sarnath in Varanasi celebrates Buddha Purnima every year with great devotion. Buddhists all over India celebrate Buddha Purnima with great fanfare and feasts.

Bharat Milap in Varanasi is an annual celebration in the month of October or November. This festival is celebrated the day after Dussehra. It is held at Nati Imli, Varanasi. This festival commemorates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. People of Varanasi gather and enjoy in the streets with great pomp and enjoyment.

Other Festivals and Events in Varanasi include Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi, Mahashivratri in Varanasi, Dhrupad Mela in Varanasi, Nakkatyya in Varanasi, Ganga Festival in Varanasi and Diwali in Varanasi among others.