In every corner of the world, Indians have carved out a place for themselves while staying true to their roots. They also introduce and inspire people with their values and traditions. Recently, a video went viral on Instagram where Indians were seen recreating Ganga aarti at Erindale Park in Canada.
Ganga Aarti In Canada
In one of the famous cities in Canada, Mississauga, Indians gathered to perform Ganga aarti, which we witness at spiritual places in India like Varanasi and Haridwar. This spiritual event was organised at Credit River in Erindale Park by Radio Dhishum along with Consul Sanjeev Saklani.
Instagram user Priyanka Gupta, who has been living in Canada for nearly a decade, posted a video that has since gone viral. In the video, 6-7 priests can be seen performing the aarti while the other devotees join them in singing. Throughout the ceremony, devotees clapped, rang bells, and chanted “Har Har Gange,” creating a spiritual atmosphere that echoed throughout the park. Both Indian and international visitors gathered on a nearby bridge to witness and capture the unforgettable cultural moment.
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Netizens Have A Mixed Reaction
Many Indians present at the aarti appreciated this event, stating that one doesn’t need to be in India to stay grounded in their roots. Some even called it one of the best evenings in Canada. The comment section on the post, however, received mixed responses from the netizens. Some stated that offering diyas and doing puja can pollute the local river and asked them to “come to India and attend the aarti”. One of them wrote, “Hope they don’t start polluting Canadian rivers like they did with the Ganga River.” On the other hand, some defended the spiritual event, saying that such activities can also be eco-friendly.
This event has started a meaningful conversation, highlighting the facts we should understand before celebrating the traditions. The intention behind hosting such an event was pure devotion, but environmental consciousness should also be taken into account.
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Though the whole online community is divided into two, we can say that this initiative by the Indian community in Canada has made a strong impact. We would love to know your views on this in the comments section.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/ Indian Toronto