The soul of Varanasi - Ghats situated on the banks of the Ganges now have been submerged in the ever-increasing water level of the river. Due to heavy rains in North India, the water level of the Ganges is continuously increasing, due to which all the major ghats of the holy city have been submerged. Due to this, local people and devotees have gone away from their daily religious activities.

Devotees who once descended the steps of Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat for morning aartis or evening prayers now find themselves staring at water lapping dangerously close to the streets. Boats are tied higher up the banks. Priests, who would usually be surrounded by pilgrims, now sit idle, watching the swirling currents erase the spaces where faith met tradition.

The rising river is not just a visual concern, it has affected thousands. The shore shopkeepers are reporting heavy losses. Small restaurants and flower sellers, who are dependent on tourists and religious activities, are facing the worst days of the past several years.

Officials have issued flood alerts in many districts of Uttar Pradesh. Villages near riverbanks are being evacuated, and disaster response teams are on standby. But in cities like Varanasi, the submergence of ghats is more than a logistical issue; it's an emotional and spiritual disruption.

Local residents say they have seen the Ganga rise before, but this year feels different. The intensity of rain and the rapid increase in water level have created a possibility of long -term loss.

A city that finds its power and identity from the Ganges, gives strict reminders of the strength of nature and the immediate need for better flood management. As the rain clouds loom and the river shows no signs of receding, Varanasi waits for the waters to return to their banks and for normalcy to be gently restored.