Collection 2 · Article 18 / 50

Laser Shows and Modern Additions to the Ancient City

The festival of a thousand traditions has increasingly included modern visual technology. In recent years, projection mapping and laser-style presentations have been discussed or staged around historic riverfront architecture, including the Chet Singh Ghat area. These additions can be exciting, but they are event-program features, not guaranteed ancient rituals.

Kartik PurnimaVaranasi · 24 Nov 2026Ghats, Aarti & Festival Experience
काशी
DEV DEEPAWALI
Chet Singh Ghat during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Chet Singh Ghat during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi

How projection shows work

A projector or laser system casts moving light, patterns, and sometimes narrated scenes onto a building or fort-like facade. The architectural surface becomes a canvas for storytelling about Kashi, the Ganga, or religious themes. A good presentation can make heritage more accessible to visitors who do not know the local history. But its content, duration, and technical format are decided by organizers.

Dashashwamedh Ghat during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Riverfront context: Dashashwamedh Ghat during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. The image illustrates Varanasi's Dev Deepawali setting.

Things to verify for 2026

A previous year's show does not establish a current booking, location, or start time. Programs may be altered by river conditions, crowd-control decisions, electrical arrangements, and permits. Photographs of Chet Singh Ghat are useful for recognizing the setting, but they should not be captioned as proof that a specific projection is occurring on a given date.

Smart viewing tips

  • Look for an official schedule and the precise observation zone before heading out.
  • Avoid crowding fragile walls, restricted platforms, and residential entrances.
  • Use lower screen brightness for photos and avoid flash during performances.
  • Treat the illumination of diyas and Ganga Aarti as the central experience if no modern show occurs.

Common question

Is the laser show part of a required religious puja? No. Where presented, it is a contemporary cultural or tourism program alongside devotional observances.

2026 visitor note: Published festival time tables, boating routes, traffic closures and temple entry rules can change. Check the district administration and organizers before booking.