One of the most mesmerizing rituals at Pashupatinath Temple is the Pashupati Bagmati Aarati.
Aarati is a ritual of worship in which light from wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) is offered to God. Pashupati Bagmati Aarati follows three priests conducting the custom with oil lamps, lanterns and other religious elements by chanting sacred mantra.
The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps and moving them in circular motion and dedicating their act to the Divine. Bhajan (songs with religious theme) are sung by devotees during the Aarati, creating blissful surrounding. The Aarati starts at 6 pm every evening. Monday is considered the right day to worship Lord Shiva ensuring a large number of followers that day. This is a ritual that allows everyone to be a part of it and creates an environment of union of God and the devotees. Aarati is marked by hailing for the wellness of every living soul and thanking God for his kindness.
