In Rishikesh, the ceremonial ‘Ganga Aarti’ held at Parmarth Niketan has garnered recognition in the World Book of Records.
Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the esteemed president and spiritual leader of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, initiated the tradition of ‘Ganga Aarti’ at Parmarth Niketan Ganga Ghat in 1997. This ritual has persisted for the past 28 years, gracing the venue with its presence on a daily basis. Noteworthy personalities from both the domestic and international spheres frequent Rishikesh to partake in the profound experience of ‘Ganga Aarti,’ he emphasized.
Expressing his delight, he remarked, “We are immensely gratified by the acknowledgment of the ‘Ganga Aarti’ conducted at Parmarth Niketan Ganga Ghat being recorded in the World Book of Records. Scores of individuals converge to participate in this sacred event. Parmarth Niketan feels privileged to earn this distinction, which is a tribute to the devout visitors and the populace at large.”
He further expounded, stating, “Rivers epitomize the lifeblood of our planet, resonating with the cultural essence of India. They serve as the sustenance and sanctity of existence, bestowing tranquility and redemption. It was with the intention of propagating the significance of water that we initiated the ‘Ganga Aarti’ ritual. People from diverse corners of the globe, including India, actively engage in ‘Ganga Aarti’ virtually. Observers partake in the customary proceedings from the comfort of their homes, holding ‘aarti’ thalis aloft in reverence. The reverence for Mother Ganga runs deep within individuals, underscoring the imperative of preserving her sanctity,” he underscored.
