We weren't sure of exact timings and we knew that its possible to 'rent' plastic chairs near the stages to watch the ceremony so we set off just before 6pm but could see that the place was already fairly packed and the plastic seats all taken. We found an elevated concrete pathway/platform which afforded a good view without being right in amongst the hordes.
Meanwhile the river frontage to the Ghat was steadily filling with boat after boat of tourists (and we would have been caught up in all that). I think we inadvertently picked a prime viewing spot as the lower levels close to the ceremonial stages got rammed with people throughout the evening.
There was lots of chanting and bell ringing for 30 minutes but no real action till 6.30 pm when the young priests started making their offerings.
They use lamps which are circled around in a clockwise manner, accompanied by chants or songs in praise of Mother Ganga. It is believed that after the ritual is complete, the Goddess showers her blessing onto each individual present there .... we should be doubly blessed with luck following the pigeon sh*t episodes on Tuesday and the ceremony tonight.
After the lamps and incense they use fire in the ceremony and this is the link between this world and the spirit world apparently
The tourist row boats beginning to gather
and a river cruise boat in the background. This had been lurking around all day and I think its far too big - I hope this isn't a sign of times to come as it doesn't 'fit in'
The conch shells
Actually, it all gets a bit repetitive for those of us who don't actually know what is happening so these are just a few of the very many photos we took
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I nicknamed this one the 'ash man' - on request (and at a price) he smeared white 'ash' on the foreheads of devotees
Absolutely fascinating and quite beautiful. You did well to find a descent view however unexpected.
ReplyDeleteIts a nightly ritual which doesn't change very much, but certainly spectacular. Yes, we were pleased with our 'perch' ... David has discovered he is borderline claustrophobic and doesn't enjoy being in the thick of the crowds (well neither do I really).
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