On Sunday 13 September, thousands gathered at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich for Ganga Aarti on the Thames: A Ceremony of Light — the largest Ganga Aarti ever held in the UK, and the first of its kind on the River Thames.
Organised by Chinmaya Mission UK as part of our 75th anniversary celebrations, and held in collaboration with the Totally Thames festival, the sold-out evening brought together spiritual leaders and communities from across Hindu traditions with people of all backgrounds, faiths and walks of life. Swami Swaroopananda, Global Head of Chinmaya Mission, joined local spiritual leaders and representatives from UK Hindu organisations for an evening of light, prayer, gratitude and togetherness
Recreating the atmosphere of the iconic evening aartis performed along the Ganges in Varanasi, Haridwar and Rishikesh, priests and devotees led synchronised chants, music and the waving of large, multi-tiered brass oil lamps against the historic backdrop of the Old Royal Naval College. The ceremony was conceived as a symbol of the continuous, life-giving flow of nature, knowledge and consciousness — bringing that spirit to the heart of London.
The occasion was also marked by genuine care for the river it celebrated: the ritual was performed strictly on land, with no lamps, flowers or offerings released into the water, and single-use plastics banned across the venue — honouring the reverence for sacred rivers with real environmental responsibility.
Following its resounding debut, organisers hope the ceremony will become an annual fixture on London’s cultural calendar.
To everyone who came, chanted, volunteered, supported and shared in the moment with us — thank you for making it so special.
Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to the partners and supporters whose generosity made this landmark occasion possible:
Covered across the world. Media outlets, influencers and broadcasters covered the event.
Respecting the River Thames
As part of our Ganga Aarti ceremony, we honour the spirit of reverence for water that lies at the heart of this tradition. In keeping with that respect, and in line with our commitment to protecting the environment, no items, including flowers, idols, or offerings — will be placed in the River Thames during or after the ceremony.
We ask all attendees to join us in celebrating with care for this historic waterway and not to place anything in the river.
This event was free and open to all. Everyone is welcome
As a volunteer-led organisation, we do everything we can to keep the timeless traditions of India alive and pass them on to the next generation. If you’re able to support us and the event, your contribution helps us make this something truly memorable for the whole community. Every gift, no matter the size, goes directly into that effort.
At the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Royal Naval College stands right at the water’s edge, its grand domes and columns rising over the Thames. The riverside lawn leads down to the Royal Steps, where the Aarti takes place – an unforgettable setting for the ceremony.
Greenwich, London SE10 9NN
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