Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Ghat of Ten Sacrificed Horses

Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi is a sacred site known for its Ganga Aarti. It has priests dressed in matching attire, devotees chanting, bells ringing, and brass lamps moving mesmerisingly. The ghat got its name from the Sanskrit word Dashashwamedh, meaning the sacrifice of ten horses by Lord Brahma. It is very close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is a go-to place for devotees. 

Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Heart of Varanasi

Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi is not just known for its enchanting Ganga Aarti but holds a deep religious and spiritual significance in Hindu mythology. It has stories associated with the Hindu God, Lord Brahma, making it one of Banaras’s holiest Ghats. It is the main ghat located near the sacred river Ganga. 

Moreover, it was built by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in 1748 and later reconstructed by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore, in 1774. However, as per Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma is believed to have built the Dashashwamedh Ghat to welcome Lord Shiva. 

Also Read: Kashi Manikarnika Ghat: The Holiest Site For Moksha Prapti!

The Energies of Dashashwamedh Ghat: Why you must visit? 

You might wonder how a crowded place like this can be so peaceful. Well, this is what makes this place sacred and offers soul-soothing experiences. Despite devotees filling the ghat, it still feels peaceful because of the constant hum of chants, the sound of bells, and the sight of Ganga Aarti, which lightens up the ghat’s energies. 

Moreover, Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi blends spiritual peace, religious practices, and mythological stories, making it a sacred pilgrimage site. From Ganga Aarti, boat rides, vibrant markets, bathing rituals, and holy offerings, it has it all, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking to connect with the divine.

Dashashwamedh Ghat Story: The Yagshala Of Lord Brahma 

An interesting story associated with myths and legends in Hindu mythology makes this ancient city exceptionally sacred. When Lord Shiva used to reside in Mandrachal or Mount Mandara, King Divodasa was the ruler of Kashi, previously known as Rudrasaras/ Rudra Sarovar. 

King Divodasa was a wise man who is also mentioned in the Rigveda for performing various rituals. He initiated the establishment of the city of Kashi as a sacred and spiritual centre. He told Lord Brahma not to let other Gods interfere during his rule in Kashi. 

Moreover, King Divodasa vowed to protect Kashi, especially Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi and maintain its religious significance, making it a holy place for devotees. 

Lord Shiva’s Trick to Cause Trouble For King Divodasa 

Why did Lord Shiva try to create trouble for King Divodasa? So, King Divodasa didn’t want any Gods to visit Kashi or interfere during his reign. This saddened Lord Shiva, trying to break the vow of Divodasa by making him commit a mistake. Shiva sends 69 Yoginis to create chaos in Kashi. 

However, when the Yoginis reached Kashi, they were so enchanted by its beauty that they planned to stay there forever. This angered Shiva, and he again sent Lord Surya. He tried to create trouble by disguising himself as a scholar and Brahmin. Lord Surga also couldn’t find any flaws in King Divodasa, and Shiva feared him, so he decided to settle down in Kashi.

Not only that, Shiva now sends Lord Brahma to complete the task, and Brahma disguise himself as a Brahmin. He visits King Divodasa and shares his desire to perform Ashwamedh Yagna, and King agrees to it, offering him all the materials required to perform. Finally, Lord Brahma performed the Dashashwamedh Yanga (sacrifice of 10 horses) and built two shivlings there.

Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi: Where the Ganga Aarti Touches Your Soul 

Have you ever witnessed the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat? It’s a breathtaking ritual performed every evening to honour Maa Ganga, the sacred river Goddess. The priests offer prayers with fire, incense sticks, and light, seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual cleansing. 

Moreover, devotees believe worshipping Maa Ganga during the aarti purifies the soul and washes away sins. The atmosphere is so soothing, filled with chants, the glow of lamps, and the soft sound of the river. The vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere makes it a must-see experience, connecting you to the divine energy of Varanasi.

Rituals of Dashashwamedh Ganga Ghat Aarti

Every evening, priests follow a particular ritual to perform the world-famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi. Here’s a complete guide on how it’s performed.

• As the sun sets, the Ghat is lit with hundreds of oil lamps, and the priests set up large brass lamps. 
• The devotees start to gather eagerly, waiting for the aarti to begin. The dashashwamedh ghat aarti time is 6 pm in Winter and 7 pm in summer. 
• The Ganga Aarti starts with bells ringing and blowing Sankh (conch shell). 
• The priests move the line circularly, showing the diya to Maa Gang, a symbol of removing darkness. 
• As the priest moves the lamps, they chant sacred mantras and hymns praising the Goddess Ganga.  
• All the priests match the movement of the brass lamps towards the river as a sign of respect. 
• Devotees perform the Aarti daily to attain calmness in chaos, wash away sins, and purify themselves spiritually.
• As the Ganga Aarti as Dashashwamedh ghat ends, devotees silently absorb the spiritual energy, feeling connected to Maa Ganga. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Also Read: Assi Ghat Varanasi: Varanasi’s Most Popular Spiritual Spot

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