As every year, during Omkarananda Mahotsava, we conducted a specially grand Arati at our Omkarananda Public Ghat, in Muni-ki-reti, in the evening of 1st January 2006. Our Ashram Pandit, Shri Suresh Shastriji, erected a beautifully decorated Altar with Gurudev's photo in front of our Ganga Devi Murti at the bank of the sacred river Ganga. He started the holy celebration with a special Puja, which was followed by a Hawana. Swami Vishveshwaranandaji, Kumari Somashekhari, Usha Mataji and many other Ashramites and friends of the Ashram also took part in this event. The Hawana was concluded with nice Bhajans by our Ashram Pandits and Kumari Somashekhari. After the beautiful Arati for Gurudev Swami Omkarananda and Ganga Devi, colourful flowers, deepas along with prayers were offered to the holy river Ganga.

Swami Vishveshwarananda and Kumari Somashekhari during the Puja.

Swami Vishveshwarananda, Smt. Usha Devi, Smt. Nirmala Seth and others attending the Puja.

It was a heart-touching scene to see all the beautiful small shining lights floating on Gangaji after sunset. Everybody present enjoyed this special event, which was concluded with Blessings and Prasad Distribution by Shri Suresh Panditji.