Masan Holi Celebrated at Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat
The sacred Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi witnessed the unique and spiritually significant ‘Masan Holi’ celebration, where devotees and Naga Sadhus played Holi using ashes from cremation pyres. This extraordinary tradition, also known as Bhasma Holi, symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and death, deeply rooted in the spiritual beliefs associated with Lord Shiva.
The festivities commenced at 10 a.m. from the revered Mahashamshan Nath Temple. Participants smeared each other with ashes, danced, and sang along to the rhythm of traditional music, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. The ghats echoed with chants of ‘Har-Har Mahadev,’ blending the spirit of celebration with the solemnity of the cremation ground.
The event drew a large number of devotees and tourists, all eager to witness and take part in this one-of-a-kind observance. This year’s Masan Holi not only upheld centuries-old traditions but also highlighted Varanasi’s profound cultural heritage and its distinctive approach to embracing both life and death through religious festivities.
- Religion World Bureau
Editorial Review Note
Written by Religion World — Bhavya Srivastava is the founder of Religion World and a veteran journalist with over 18 years of experience across broadcast, print, and digital media. A founding member of the International Association of Religion Journalists (IARJ), he has spent much of his career reporting on and producing content about religion, faith, and spirituality. View full profile →.
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