Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Ganga Aarti Brings Ancient Indian Tradition to Thames
Ganga Aarti is a Hindu ceremony that offers light and prayers to a river.
It is a way to show gratitude for nature and for the water that supports life.
The Ganga is especially important in Hindu traditions and memories.
On 13 September, people will perform this ceremony beside the Thames in London.
The event will take place at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
The Thames is not being treated as a replacement for the Ganga.
Instead, the ceremony brings the meaning of the tradition to a new river and setting.
Lamps will be held toward the Thames, but nothing will be put into the water.
The event will also include music, cultural performances and explanations of the ceremony.
Ganga Aarti will be held on 13 September at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Chinmaya Mission UK is presenting the ceremony with Totally Thames.
The ritual will feature lamps, prayers, chanting, music and cultural performances.
Thousands are expected to attend the Ceremony of Light at 7:15 pm.
Nothing from the ceremony will be placed into or released into the Thames.
- Who
- Chinmaya Mission UK, in collaboration with Totally Thames, is presenting the ceremony; thousands are expected to attend.
- What
- A Ganga Aarti ceremony, called A Ceremony of Light, will be held beside the Thames.
- When
- 13 September, with the main Ceremony of Light scheduled for 7:15 pm.
- Where
- The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London.
- Why
- The ceremony expresses gratitude and reverence for nature while bringing an ancient Indian tradition into a London setting.
- Event
- Ganga Aarti on the Thames: A Ceremony of Light
- Date
- 13 September
- Main ceremony
- 7:15 pm
- Venue
- Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
- Presenter
- Chinmaya Mission UK
- Collaborator
- Totally Thames
- Environmental measure
- Nothing from the ceremony will be placed into or released into the Thames.