International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160   •   Impact Factor: 9.24

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Ritual Transformation On The Ghats Of Varanasi: Changing Patterns Of Ganga Aarti, Sacred Bathing And Pilgrimage Practices

Author(s) Ms. Smita Priyadarshini, Dr. Anita Samal
Country India
Abstract The ghats of Varanasi have for centuries been important spaces where religion, culture and everyday life come together along the banks of the Ganga river. Over time, these spaces have not remained unchanged. In recent years, urban development, government initiatives, tourism and media exposure have significantly influenced how rituals are performed and experienced. These practices have long shaped the cultural identity of the city and the experience of Pilgrim who come from different parts of India.
The Ganga aarti has become more organized and publicly staged, sacred bathing areas have been better structured and the movement and activities of pilgrims are increasingly shaped by infrastructure and tourism management. This paper explores how key religious practices- especially Ganga aarti, sacred bathing and pilgrimage are gradually transforming. It focuses on three main aspects: The changing form of the Ganga aarti, evolving patterns of the sacred bathing and the experience of pilgrims visiting the ghats. The study uses qualitative methods, including field observations, along with the review of relevant literature and policy documents.
The study shows that rituals have become more organized and publicly visible, often taking on performative character. Understanding these changes is important for preserving the cultural and religious significance of the ghats while adapting to contemporary needs.
Keywords Cultural transformation; ritual change; sacred spaces; pilgrimage; urban development; Varanasi ghats
Field Sociology > Politics
Published In Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On 2026-04-12
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.74456
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