DAINIK NATION BUREAU/KEDARNATH DHAM
The Divine Ganga Aarti begins at the confluence of the Mandakini and Saraswati rivers in Kedarnath on May 4. It grabs the thousands of devotees attetion, who had arrived to offer prayers at the holy shrine of Shri Kedarnath Dham.
The spiritual ceremony began at dusk in a divine setting, with the air resonating with the sound of conch shells, ringing bells, and the chanting of Vedic mantras. As priests performed the Aarti, flickering lamps were offered to the holy river, casting a golden glow across the twilight sky. The scene created a mystical and deeply moving atmosphere, stirring feelings of peace, devotion, and reverence among the gathered pilgrims.
The Ganga Aarti will now be held every evening throughout the Char Dham Yatra season. Organized by the Kedarnath Temple Committee in collaboration with local priests and volunteers, this year’s ritual features enhanced arrangements—designated viewing zones, improved sound systems, and heightened security to ensure smooth conduct amidst the growing influx of visitors.
Many pilgrims, having completed the arduous trek to Kedarnath, stood silently with folded hands, overwhelmed by the spiritual energy of the moment. The shimmering lamps reflected in the flowing waters and the sacred chants echoing through the Himalayan valley left a lasting impression on those present. Some devotees were so moved that they struggled to find words, describing the experience as touching the very peak of spiritual consciousness.
“This moment brought tears to my eyes. Watching the Aarti in such a divine setting made me feel connected to something far greater,” shared Sunita Sharma, a pilgrim from Delhi.
The Ganga Aarti at Kedarnath stands not only as a sacred daily ritual but as a living embodiment of India’s timeless spiritual heritage. Authorities have urged pilgrims to uphold discipline and help maintain the sanctity of the site throughout the pilgrimage season.