Opening times
Daily: 3.00 AM - 11.00 PM
Celebrating India's Living Heritage
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Temple
Overview
About Shri Kashi Vishwanath
Standing on the western bank of India's holiest river Ganges, Varanasi is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India. It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanath. Here gravitate the teeming millions of India to seek benediction and spiritual peace by the darshan of this Jyotirlinga which confers liberation from the bondages of maya and the inexorable entanglements of the world.
Daily Aartis at
Shri Kashi Vishwanath
Daily Aartis at
Shri Kashi Vishwanath
Mangala Aarti
The first ritual of the day, performed in the serene stillness of early morning. Priests awaken Lord Shiva with Vedic mantras, conch shells, and bells. Lamps are lit and waved in choreographed patterns, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
Bhog Aarti
An expression of gratitude through offering food. Traditional dishes are ceremoniously presented to Lord Shiva, later distributed as prasadam. The ritual connects devotion with the sacred act of nourishment.
Saptarishi Aarti
Pays homage to the seven great sages. As dusk falls, priests chant ancient hymns with drums and bells while large brass lamps are moved in sweeping circles — a deeply moving and transformative experience.
Shringar Aarti
Celebrates the beauty of Lord Shiva. The deity is elaborately decorated with flowers, jewelry, garments, and sandalwood paste. The sanctum fills with fragrance and light — the most visually enchanting ceremony of the day.
Shayan Aarti
Lord Shiva is symbolically prepared for rest with lullaby-like hymns and gentle lamp waves. The calm, meditative atmosphere signifies rest, peace, and protection — the most intimate aarti of the day.