Unforgettable Event Poem by Tirupathi Chandrupatla

Aarti on the bank of river Ganga
Is a great spectacle to watch
It was our good fortune to view
One fine evening at Shitala ghat.

We gathered just before sunset
Comfortably seated with a fine view
Sky was clear with round moon visible
Devotional music played in the background.

Seven platforms were setup neatly
The center one with more flowers
Each platform had a small table
A shankha was placed at right.

Boats full of aarti viewers gathered
On Ganga River's edge still on water
Multitude of devotees sat on the ghat
Their loud chanting expressed joy.

After sunset as darkness approached
Seven priests blew shankhas in unison
They placed ‘em back on the red table
That indicated beginning of aarti routine.

Seven tiered lamps with conically
Arranged flames were lit on platforms
They were then manipulated in rhythmic
Pattern to give an eye pleasing display.

This act was followed by larger lamps
Larger flames emanating smoke into air
Delightful patterns and melody of music
Captivated and thrilled the attentive devotees.

Flames reduced their intensity as aarti ended
Full moon shone brightly blessing the crowd
The memory of the evening of Ganga prayer
Remains as an unforgettable event in life.