Khichdi prasad offered after Ganga aarti: Kolkata implements Mamata govt's decision

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has introduced the practice of Ganga Aarti at multiple Ganga Ghats across the state, inspired by the ritual in Varanasi.

Since March 2, a significant number of tourists have been flocking to Kolkata to witness the Ganga Aarti, which is now offered free of cost. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has also arranged for Khichdi Prasad for the attendees.

A senior government official confirmed that a weekly bhog (offering) has been organized every Saturday after the Aarti, in collaboration with the Kolkata Municipality. After witnessing the Ganga Aarti, visitors are treated to Khichdi, specially prepared using rice, pulses, ghee, cashew nuts, raisins, vegetables, and spices. The Prasad is distributed in Shaalpatra bowls.

Currently, the Bhog is only offered on Saturdays, but there are plans to extend this provision in the near future. The Calcutta Municipal Corporation has entrusted a voluntary organization with the responsibility of organizing the bhog and distributing it as part of the Aarti ceremony.

The introduction of Ganga Aarti in Kolkata, initiated by Mamata Banerjee, has added a new attraction to the city's list of tourist destinations. The state government aims to transform the deteriorated Kadamtala Ghat into an international-level tourist center, with the beautification of the Ganga and the enchanting atmosphere it creates. The Ganga Aarti Darshan is conducted every evening alongside the Ganga Puja.

Impressed by the Aarti at Varanasi's Ganga Ghats, Mamata Banerjee expressed her desire to implement a similar Aarti in Kolkata and entrusted the responsibility to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. Prior to commencing the Aarti, a temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga was constructed at the ghat, where the idol of Maa Ganga was installed. The distribution of Khichdi bhog to visitors takes place in front of the temple on Saturdays, using bowls made of shalpatra leaves.

The Kolkata Municipality plans to expand the Bhog distribution to other days in the future. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has partnered with a voluntary organization to organize this festival and facilitate the offerings.