Sunrise on the Ganges

Whilst in Varanasi Cheryl and I took a sunrise tour of the Ganges river where we ewre witness to an amazing Hindu ritual of bathing in the Ganges. We awoke at 5 am and made our way down to the shore of the Ganges. The shore consisted of steps leading to the water for this particular stretch of shore is lined with ghats; religious temple-like structures from which people bath to wash their spirits and bodies clean.

We loaded the boat and took off at a slow rowers pace. The morning was languid in speed and feeling. It felt as if we were slowly moving through a dream as we glided along the spiritual river said to be the life blood of India. As the began to rise we witnessed a particularly boisterous group of young men charge into the water and swim out to the centre. The rest of the people along the steps began their descent in to the water. Many were muttering prayers, or singing softly as they ritualistically bathed, washed, drank, and prayed within the water. Some began to do laundry and beat their clothes upon rocks. The whole experience seemed to move together in a pious and sincere manner.

We were fortunate enough to witness a funeral pyre as well. Varanasi is said to be a place where a Hindu may pass away and become free of the cycle of life in reincarnation. Therefore, many people make a final pilgrimage there to die and be released. Part of that release is in the form of being cremated at one of the many ghats along the Ganges river, and to then be added to the Ganges.

The next day Cheryl and I also witnessed a funeral procession leading down to the Ganges. The body was carried by four men. There were many following behind. Leading the procession were a handful of drummers leading with a festive beat such as a celebration. The whole tableau appeared to be a happy send off for the departed. It was very warm and heartening to witness.

To see all of these aspects of life, death, and spiritual cleansing all within 24 hours of each other was incredible. Varanasi is considered the most holy city in India. It is definitely a place to behold for it is truly observed as the life line of India.

Editors note:
*The first picture is masterfully snapped by Cheryl realizing its symbolic importance of what we witnessed that morning.
*The second picture is of our boatman steering us along the Ganges (c/o Jay)
*The third picture is of many people bathing along the steps of one of the many ghats along the river.
*The fourth picture is a man performing a ritual with fire for the morning sun.
*The final picture is a funeral pyre sending the person's spirit to the next life (assumed).