New Delhi:

US Ambassador Eric Garcetti on Wednesday was all praise for Varanasi as he shared his thoughts on witnessing sunrise from its famed ghats and watching the Ganga aarti which, he said, was a “beautiful reminder of how tradition shapes us”.

The ambassador, in a series of posts on X, shared photographs of his visit to the spiritual city of India.

“Experiencing the sunrise over the Ganges from Asi Ghat was nothing short of surreal. What a joy to share this moment with so many others, who gathered in the early hours to witness such beauty!,” he wrote on the social media platform.

Mr Garcetti, in another post, shared the experience of witnessing an aarti on the banks of Ganga.

“The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat was more than just a ceremony; it was a beautiful reminder of how tradition shapes us. The lights reflecting on the river and the sound of bells echoing in the night create an unforgettable atmosphere. Varanasi, you’ve touched my soul,” he said.

The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat was more than just a ceremony; it was a beautiful reminder of how tradition shapes us. The lights reflecting on the river and the sound of bells echoing in the night create an unforgettable atmosphere. Varanasi, you’ve touched my soul. pic.twitter.com/5Hce3f3v6V

— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) October 16, 2024

Earlier, the US envoy wrote, “Namaste Varanasi! I’m excited to finally visit the “City of Light.” Looking forward to exploring the beautiful ghats, ancient temples, and timeless traditions of this vibrant city.” Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in India and attracts a large number of devotees to its holy sites, including the Kashi Vishwanath temple, besides its old ghats.

Recently, Mr Garcetti had travelled to Kolkata to experience the Durga Puja celebrations in the city.

“Pandal hopping in Kolkata during Durga Puja is an experience like no other! Every pandal and home puja tells a story and celebrates the unique spirit and heritage of the season. It’s such an honor to be part of this beautiful blend of art, history, culture, and community. #DurgaPuja2024 #USIndiaFWD,” he wrote in a post on X on October 12.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti celebrated Durga Pooja with enthusiasm and vigour. He recently visited a pandal at Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park and enjoyed the Bengali street food and customs. Mr Garcetti also performed Dhunuchi Naach, which is referred to as a dance dedicated towards Goddess Durga. The US Envoy took to X, formerly Twitter, to share a video of his “incredible time”. 

Mr Garcetti was given a warm and traditional Bengali welcome, as seen in the clip. He performs the ‘aarti’ and then goes on to dance with the people at the pandal. Further, the US Envoy performs Dhunuchi Naach, an integral part of Durga Pooja, with an earthen pot in his mouth. He then goes on to meet children performing on the stage and later poses for pictures with them. Mr Garcetti, who is often seen trying out Indian delicacies, relishes Kolkata’s famous Jhal Muri and calls it “perfect”. He concludes his visit by relishing biryani, fish and some traditional sweets. 

Shubho Pujo, everyone!
I had an incredible time pandal hopping in CR Park in Delhi, participating in the cultural festivities and of course, tasting some amazing Pujo food! As I continue to experience different celebrations across India, I remain in awe of @IncredibleIndia‘s… pic.twitter.com/UHUF9qUy0v

— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) October 21, 2023

“Shubho Pujo, everyone! I had an incredible time pandal hopping in CR Park in Delhi, participating in the cultural festivities and of course, tasting some amazing Pujo food! As I continue to experience different celebrations across India, I remain in awe of @IncredibleIndia’s amazing cultural diversity,” he wrote in the caption of the clip. 

Since being shared, his post has amassed 1.3 lakh views and over six thousand likes.

“How could you manage to eat so many items,” commented a user.

“Lovely to see you Do the Dhunachi dance Shubho Shaptami,” added a person.

A third user added, “Never in the history I have seen any diplomat traveling so extensively within India and celebrate the culture, diversity, festivals and spread so much love. I have become an ardent fan of you Mr. Ambassador, Eric Garcetti, you are a very happy and lovely person.”

“That’s a lot of food you’ve done every Bengali proud wow! That Dhunuchi naach step was the killer! Well done to pull it off,” commented another user.

“It’s takes a very large and loving heart to be open to diverse cultures and to accept the differences. Thank you for spreading love,” added a person.