Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights. The city’s street food reflects its cultural diversity and historical depth, offering a variety of flavors and textures that are a treat to the senses. Varanasi’s street food scene is a vibrant mix of flavors, textures, and traditions. From the spicy and tangy Tamatar Chaat to the creamy, dreamy Malaiyo, the city offers a culinary journey that is as rich and diverse as its history. Each dish tells a story of the city’s cultural heritage, making every bite a unique experience. Whether you are a food connoisseur or a curious traveler, the street foods of Varanasi promise a gastronomic adventure that is both satisfying and unforgettable.

Kachori Sabzi: Kachori Sabzi is a quintessential Varanasi breakfast, loved by locals and tourists alike. This dish consists of round, flaky pastries called kachoris, stuffed with a spicy mixture of lentils or urad dal. These are deep-fried until golden and crispy. The kachoris are served with a piping hot, tangy, and spicy potato curry (sabzi) that perfectly complements the rich, flaky pastry. A variant called choti kachori, smaller in size, is also popular. The dish is often garnished with green chilies and coriander, making it a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Chena Dahi Vada: A unique twist on the traditional dahi vada, the Chena Dahi Vada of Varanasi is made from chena (paneer or fresh cottage cheese). These soft, fluffy vadas are soaked in chilled, creamy yogurt and topped with a drizzle of sweet tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and a sprinkle of chaat masala and roasted cumin powder. The result is a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, combined with the melt-in-the-mouth texture of the vadas.

Tamatar Chaat: Tamatar Chaat is a spicy and tangy street food unique to Varanasi. Made from mashed tomatoes cooked with boiled potatoes, spices, and green chilies, this chaat is a burst of flavors. The mixture is garnished with sev (crunchy chickpea noodles), chopped onions, fresh coriander, and sometimes pomegranate seeds. It's served hot, making it a perfect snack for any time of the day. The combination of soft tomatoes, crispy sev, and aromatic spices makes Tamatar Chaat an irresistible treat.

Baati Chokha: Baati Chokha is a traditional dish from the region, often associated with rustic, village-style cooking. Baati are round wheat flour dough balls, baked or roasted until they are crisp on the outside and soft inside. They are typically served with chokha, a mashed vegetable preparation made from roasted eggplant (baingan), tomatoes, and potatoes, flavored with mustard oil, garlic, and green chilies. This dish is usually enjoyed with a dollop of ghee (clarified butter) on the baati, enhancing its rich flavor and making it a wholesome meal.

Malaiyo: A seasonal delicacy available only during the winter months, Malaiyo is a light and airy dessert that captures the essence of Varanasi. It is made by churning milk and cream overnight and letting it sit under the open sky to collect dew. The next morning, it is flavored with saffron, cardamom, and a hint of sugar, resulting in a frothy, creamy concoction that melts in the mouth. Often garnished with pistachios and almonds, Malaiyo is a testament to the culinary artistry and tradition of the city.

Chura Matar: Chura Matar is a simple yet flavorful dish made from flattened rice (poha) and fresh green peas. The poha is lightly sautéed with peas, mustard seeds, cumin, green chilies, ginger, and a dash of lemon juice. This dish is often enjoyed during the winter season when fresh peas are abundant. It's garnished with coriander leaves and sometimes grated coconut, offering a refreshing, light, and healthy snack that's both filling and delicious.

Banarasi Paan: While not a food in the traditional sense, Banarasi Paan is an integral part of Varanasi's street food culture. A betel leaf filled with a mixture of areca nut, slaked lime, and various sweet and savory condiments, Banarasi Paan is a post-meal treat that aids digestion and leaves a refreshing taste in the mouth. There are many variations, including meetha (sweet) and sada (plain), each offering a unique experience. The art of making and serving paan is a skill passed down through generations, making it a cultural as well as a culinary delight.

Thandai: Thandai is a traditional cooling beverage that holds a special place in Varanasi’s food culture, especially during festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri. This drink is made from a mixture of milk, sugar, almonds, fennel seeds, watermelon seeds, rose petals, pepper, cardamom, saffron, and poppy seeds. The ingredients are ground into a fine paste and mixed with milk to create a rich, aromatic drink. Sometimes, bhang (cannabis) is added during certain festivals, making it a unique and celebratory beverage. Served chilled, Thandai is both refreshing and nourishing.

Lassi: Varanasi's lassi is a rich, creamy yogurt-based drink, often enjoyed as a refreshment on hot days. This thick, frothy beverage is sweetened with sugar and flavored with rose water or cardamom. It’s usually topped with a generous dollop of malai (cream) and sometimes garnished with dry fruits like almonds and pistachios. Served in traditional earthenware cups, lassi in Varanasi is not just a drink but an experience that reflects the city’s culinary heritage.

Jalebi: No exploration of Varanasi’s street food is complete without indulging in the syrupy sweetness of Jalebi. Made from a batter of fermented flour, these spirals are deep-fried until crispy and then soaked in sugar syrup flavored with saffron or cardamom. Jalebis are best enjoyed hot and fresh, offering a delightful contrast of textures with a crispy exterior and a juicy, syrupy interior. Often paired with Rabri (thickened sweetened milk) for an extra indulgence, Jalebis are a popular treat enjoyed by people of all ages.

In order to explore culinary variety and taste popular dishes, opt for Varanasi Food Tour by Optima Travels. Culinary tours of Varanasi are conducted either in the morning or in the evening. Both the time, different dishes are prepared for the foodies. For example, Malayyio is available only in the morning, that too in wee hours of the winter season. Similarly, Chaat is prepared in the evening. On the contrary, Paan is available every time.

The Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage held periodically at four riverbank sites in India (Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain), is the largest congregation of faith in the world. Of these, the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela is particularly renowned, drawing millions of devotees and tourists. A central and highly anticipated aspect of the Kumbh Mela is the procession of  Akharas which showcases a unique blend of spirituality, martial prowess, and ancient traditions. This article delves into the activities, rituals, and significance of these processions, while also highlighting their attractions for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Historical Context and Significance of the Kumbh Mela

The Kumbh Mela's origins are rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the story of the churning of the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan). According to legend, during the churning, the gods and demons fought over a pot (kumbh) of nectar that grants immortality. Drops of this nectar fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar Nashik, and Ujjain — sanctifying them. Consequently, these sites host the Kumbh Mela, a gathering held every twelve years, with the Prayagraj event being the most significant due to its location at the confluence (Sangam) of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

The Prayagraj Kumbh Mela is distinguished by various rituals, the most significant being the Shahi Snan (royal bath), where ascetics, sadhus, and pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy waters, believing it to cleanse their sins and grant them spiritual merit.

The Akharas: Guardians of Tradition and Spirituality

Akharas are monastic orders of ascetics who play a pivotal role in the Kumbh Mela. These groups, traditionally involved in the protection of Hinduism and its practices, are classified broadly into three major sects: Shaiva (followers of Shiva), Vaishnava (followers of Vishnu), and Udasi (followers of Guru Nanak and the Sikh tradition). Each sect is further divided into several sub-groups, with a total of 13 prominent Akharas recognized by the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, the apex body of these monastic orders.

The major Akharas include:

1.      Juna Akhara

2.      Niranjani Akhara

3.      Mahanirvani Akhara

4.      Atal Akhara

5.      Nirvani Akhara

6.      Awahan Akhara

7.      Anand Akhara

8.      Agni Akhara

9.      Digambar Akhara

10. Nirmohi Akhara

11. Naya Udasi Akhara

12. Bada Udasi Akhara

13. Nirmal Akhara

These Akharas not only uphold religious and spiritual traditions but also serve as centers for learning and martial training. The processions of these Akharas during the Kumbh Mela are a spectacle, blending piety with grandeur.

The Procession of Akharas: A Grand Spectacle

The Akhara processions, also known as Peshwai, are elaborate and vibrant, marking the arrival of these ascetic orders at the Kumbh Mela. Each procession is a demonstration of the Akhara's strength, devotion, and rich heritage, often resembling royal processions with their grandeur and pageantry.

1.      Ritualistic Preparations: Before the procession begins, elaborate rituals are conducted at the Akhara camps. These include prayers, chanting of hymns, and ceremonial offerings to deities. The sadhus and mahants (heads of Akharas) adorn themselves with traditional attire and sacred ash (vibhuti), symbolizing their renunciation and spiritual commitment.

2.      Formation of the Procession: The procession typically includes chariots (rathas) carrying the idols of the presiding deities of the Akharas, followed by rows of ascetics displaying various yogic and martial arts skills. Elephants, horses, and camels are often part of the entourage, adding to the regality of the event.

3.      Naga Sadhus: A distinctive feature of the Akhara processions is the presence of Naga sadhus, naked ascetics smeared in ash, carrying tridents and swords. These warriors of spirituality are known for their austere lifestyles and physical prowess. Their participation is symbolic of the Akharas' historical role in defending the faith.

4.      Music and Dance: Traditional music, including the sound of conch shells, drums, and bells, accompanies the procession, creating an aura of divinity. Devotional songs and dances by the ascetics and devotees add to the festive atmosphere.

5.      Public Participation: The processions attract large crowds of pilgrims and tourists who line the streets to witness the spectacle. Devotees seek blessings from the sadhus, who often distribute prasad (consecrated food) and sacred ash.

6.      Route and Destination: The processions typically commence from the Akhara camps and proceed towards the Sangam, the confluence of the rivers, where the Akharas perform the Shahi Snan. This royal bath is the culmination of the procession, with the sadhus immersing themselves in the holy waters.

Activities and Rituals During the Kumbh Mela

Beyond the processions, the Kumbh Mela is marked by a series of activities and rituals that are integral to the spiritual experience of the pilgrims.

1.      Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): The Shahi Snan is the most significant ritual of the Kumbh Mela. The Akharas take turns to bathe in the Sangam on predetermined auspicious days. This ritual bath is believed to purify the soul and grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

2.      Discourses and Satsangs: Throughout the Kumbh Mela, spiritual discourses and satsangs (gatherings for spiritual discourse) are held by renowned saints and gurus. These sessions provide spiritual guidance and insights into Hindu philosophy and practices.

3.      Yagnas and Pujas: Various yagnas (fire rituals) and pujas (worship ceremonies) are performed by the Akharas and individual devotees. These rituals are offerings to deities, seeking their blessings for prosperity, peace, and spiritual elevation.

4.      Pilgrimage to Temples: Pilgrims often visit nearby temples and holy sites in Prayagraj, such as the Hanuman Temple, Akshayavat (immortal banyan tree), and the Allahabad Fort, which houses ancient relics and is associated with various legends.

5.      Charity and Social Service: The Kumbh Mela also witnesses extensive charitable activities. Free meals (bhandaras) are organized by various religious and social organizations, ensuring that no pilgrim goes hungry. Medical camps and aid stations provide free healthcare services to the attendees.

Significance for Pilgrims

For the millions of pilgrims who flock to the Kumbh Mela, the event holds profound spiritual significance. The journey to the Kumbh Mela is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attain moksha (liberation) and wash away sins through the holy dip in the Sangam.

1.      Spiritual Purification: The primary motive for many pilgrims is spiritual purification. The belief in the sanctity of the Sangam and the efficacy of the Shahi Snan drives them to endure long journeys and hardships to partake in the ritual bath.

2.      Seek Blessings: Pilgrims seek blessings from the sadhus and saints who are revered for their spiritual attainments and asceticism. The opportunity to interact with these holy men and receive their blessings is a significant aspect of the pilgrimage.

3.      Experience of Unity: The Kumbh Mela embodies the spirit of unity in diversity. Pilgrims from various regions, speaking different languages, and following different customs come together in a shared expression of faith, fostering a sense of collective identity and communal harmony.

4.      Fulfillment of Vows: Many pilgrims undertake the journey to fulfill vows made during times of distress or to express gratitude for blessings received. The fulfillment of these vows through rituals and offerings at the Kumbh Mela is a significant aspect of their spiritual journey.

Attractions for Tourists

While the Kumbh Mela is primarily a religious event, it also offers numerous attractions for tourists, providing a unique window into India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

1.      Cultural Extravaganza: The Kumbh Mela is a melting pot of cultural expressions. Traditional music, dance performances, and folk arts are showcased, offering tourists a glimpse into India's diverse cultural landscape.

2.      Photographic Opportunities: The vibrant processions, the ascetics in their traditional attire, and the panoramic views of the Sangam provide excellent opportunities for photography enthusiasts. The Kumbh Mela is a visual feast, capturing the essence of India's spiritual and cultural ethos.

3.      Exploration of Heritage Sites: Prayagraj, with its historical and religious significance, offers several heritage sites for exploration. The Allahabad Fort, Khusro Bagh, and Anand Bhavan are notable attractions that provide insights into the region's history and legacy.

4.      Interaction with Sadhus: Tourists have the unique opportunity to interact with sadhus and learn about their ascetic practices and philosophies. These interactions can be enlightening,

Pilgrims and visitors have several options to stay to explore Kumbh Mela. Accommodation in Prayagraj  is available in luxury tents, guest houses and city hotels. Several Kumbh Mela related Prayagraj tour packages like Spiritual Kumbh Mela Tour and Maha Kumbh Mela Tour are also available.

Dev Deepavali , also known as Dev Diwali, is one of the most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals celebrated in Varanasi, India. Occurring 15 days after the grand Diwali festival, Dev Deepavali marks the occasion when the gods are believed to descend to Earth to bathe in the holy Ganges River. This celebration is particularly special in Varanasi, the city considered the spiritual capital of India, where the festivities are marked by a display of devotion, light, and grandeur that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from around the world.

Date of Dev Deepavali in 2024: In 2024, Dev Deepavali will be celebrated on November 15. The festival falls on the full moon night (Kartik Purnima) of the Hindu month of Kartik, a month already considered auspicious due to its association with various religious activities. This timing is of great importance as it follows the lunar calendar, making the full moon night a perfect time for divine celebrations and rituals.

Importance and Religious Significance of Dev Deepavali - Dev Deepavali is not just a festival of lights but is deeply rooted in Hindu cultural ethos and religious scriptures. According to ancient beliefs, on this day, the gods (Devas) come down from the heavens to bathe in the holy Ganges, blessing the river with divine presence. The festival signifies the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura, which is why it is also known as Tripurotsav. Tripurasura was a powerful demon who conquered the three worlds and created havoc. After relentless battles and prayers from the gods, Lord Shiva was granted the power to destroy Tripurasura. He did so on Kartik Purnima, marking this day as a celebration of divine intervention and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

The festival is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, emphasizing its religious importance. The Skanda Purana and other texts describe the day as one when the gods gather to celebrate the destruction of the evil forces, making the Ganges even more sacred on this occasion. Bathing in the Ganges on Kartik Purnima is believed to absolve devotees of their sins and grant them moksha (liberation).

The Grand Celebration of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi: Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is the epicenter of Dev Deepavali celebrations. The city, already steeped in spirituality and tradition, transforms into a mystical land of lights, rituals, and cultural performances during this festival. The grandeur of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi is unparalleled, drawing both domestic and international visitors.

The most striking aspect of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi is the illumination of the ghats along the Ganges. Over a million earthen lamps (diyas) are lit by devotees, lining the steps of the ghats, the riverbanks, and the temples. This spectacle of light, reflected on the serene waters of the Ganges, creates a breathtaking view that is often described as a spiritual and visual feast.

The main ritual involves devotees lighting lamps after performing a ritual bath in the Ganges. The ghats, including the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat, are beautifully decorated, with elaborate rangolis and flowers adding to the festive atmosphere.

Ganga Aarti: A Divine Offering - One of the highlights of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi is the Ganga Aarti, a ritual that is performed every evening on the ghats, but with extra grandeur during this festival. The Aarti is a choreographed performance involving fire, incense, and rhythmic chanting of Vedic hymns, all performed by priests in traditional attire. The sight of thousands of oil lamps floating on the Ganges during the Aarti is a mesmerizing experience, symbolizing the lighting of the divine path for the deities who are believed to descend on Earth on this night.

Cultural Events and Processions: The Dev Deepavali celebrations in Varanasi are also marked by various cultural events and religious processions. Devotees and visitors can witness classical music and dance performances, recitations of holy scriptures, and traditional rituals that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi. The processions, often led by priests and involving large idols of deities, move through the narrow lanes of the old city, accompanied by the sounds of drums, conch shells, and chanting.

Pilgrimage and Devotion: For many Hindus, visiting Varanasi during Dev Deepavali is a pilgrimage of a lifetime. The opportunity to participate in the rituals, take a holy dip in the Ganges, and light a lamp at one of the sacred ghats is considered highly auspicious. The festival is a time for personal reflection, devotion, and the seeking of blessings from the divine.

What Makes Dev Deepavali in Varanasi Special for Foreign Tourists? Dev Deepavali is not just a religious festival; it is an experience that encapsulates the essence of India’s spiritual and cultural diversity. For foreign tourists, the festival offers a unique opportunity to witness and participate in one of the most visually stunning and spiritually enriching events in the world.

For many foreign tourists, Dev Deepavali provides an immersive cultural experience. The festival offers a glimpse into the deep-seated traditions of Hinduism, the rituals associated with the worship of deities, and the reverence for natural elements like the Ganges. Tourists can engage with locals, participate in the lighting of lamps, and enjoy the cultural performances that are an integral part of the celebration.

The photogenic nature of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi is one of the major attractions for foreign tourists. The city, with its ancient temples, vibrant ghats, and the stunning reflection of thousands of lamps on the Ganges, provides countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. The ethereal beauty of the city bathed in the glow of millions of lamps is a sight that lingers long in the memory.

Dev Deepavali is more than just a festival; it is a profound spiritual event that showcases the rich cultural and religious heritage of India. In Varanasi, the festival reaches its pinnacle of grandeur, with the city transforming into a luminous landscape of devotion and celebration. For those looking to experience the true essence of India, there is no better time than Dev Deepavali in Varanasi, where the divine meets the earthly in a spectacular display of light, faith, and tradition.

The 2024 celebration of Dev Diwali on December 14 promises to be a magnificent event, drawing people from all walks of life to the sacred city of Varanasi, where they can witness, and perhaps participate in, a festival that has been celebrated for centuries, and continues to captivate the hearts of millions around the world. Optima Travels offers 2 Days – Varanasi Dev Diwali Tour and 3 Days – Dev Deepawali Varanasi Tour.