October 9 - Seeing the Aorti Ceremony on the Ganges

We boarded the bus for a short ride to the old part of the city. We couldn't get too close to the Ganges, so had to go on rickshaws. These rickshaws are much smaller than others we've been on. Sanjay said it's always good to have someone to ride with so you can share what you see along the way. It was a very tight fit for Steve and me, but I'm happy we rode together. So much more interesting when you have someone to talk to. The rickshaw driver worked hard as he pedaled us along the very busy streets. There's a lot of traffic but mostly other rickshaws, bicycles, and motorbikes. Many people walk along the way, too.

When we got off the rickshaws, we walked down the many steps to the shore of the Ganges. It was very crowded with people and the many boats. We boarded our boat and were rowed out into the water. We passed by the funeral ghats, watching as people brought the deceased to be placed on wood, covered with more wood, and then set on fire. Due to the warm temperatures, people are cremated as soon as possible after they die. Surprisingly, there weren't loud noises of people crying as I expected to hear. It's just a fact of life and death to Hindus that they will be taken to this location if they live in/near Varanasi.

We returned to the place where we boarded the boat and sat to watch the aorti ceremony. Every day, 365 days a year, just after sundown, the temple priests perform this sacred light ceremony on the banks of "Mother Ganga." Impressive sight and sounds as they chant.

As soon as we were back on shore, the street hawkers were trying to get us to buy something... "Miss... remember me?" "Where are you from?" "Just 100 rupees" "A bag, Mam..." "Postcards..." "I'll see you tomorrow..." Never ending no matter where we were.

Our rickshaw driver directed us back to his rickshaw and we began the ride to where our bus had parked. It was good to get back on the air-conditioned bus and be able to move easily. We had dinner at the Hotel Surya. Sanjay arranged for something different... Thalis. It's a "combination plate" with assorted Indian dishes. Very tasty, but I didn't eat too much since I wanted to take it easy. I was feeling much better than in the morning.

We didn't get back to the hotel until about 9:30 so went to bed soon after, knowing we had to be up very early for our sunrise visit to the Ganges.