World Art Day, observed annually on April 15, is an international celebration of the fine arts that promotes awareness, creativity and support for artists worldwide. In honor of this day, Blue Yonder associate Suraj Thite shares a reflection on an artistic retreat in the city of Varanasi—an experience shaped by people, faith, art, learning and quiet personal growth.
Some cities are not just visited—they are experienced, felt and slowly absorbed. Varanasi is one such place. In December 2025, I had the opportunity to spend five deeply immersive days in this ancient city with Kalaarambh, a collective of artists from across India.
This blog is a reflection of those five days—through streets, ghats, paint-stained hands, shared wisdom and moments that will stay with me forever.
Day 1: Solo Walks, Faith and First Conversations
I arrived in Varanasi alone, a little tired from travel but filled with anticipation. Before joining the group, I spent the day walking through the narrow, timeless streets of the old city. Varanasi has a way of pulling you into conversations—with shopkeepers, pilgrims, boatmen and strangers who quickly feel familiar.
That day, with the help of kind locals, I was able to have darshan at Kashi Vishwanath—one of the most sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva—and later at Kalbhairav, the fierce guardian deity of the city. Both experiences felt grounding, almost like a quiet reassurance before the artistic journey ahead.
Day 2: Painting at Assi Ghat – Where the Day Begins
Assi Ghat, located close to my hotel, became my workspace for the day. Known as the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers, it is one of the most vibrant ghats—especially in the morning.
I spent the entire day painting there, surrounded by the rhythm of prayers, boats, sadhus and curious onlookers. Something special happened—two of my paintings were sold right there on location. It wasn't just about the sale; it felt like a quiet validation that my work was connecting with people beyond words.
Day 3: Learning, Observing and the Magic of Ganga Aarti
The third day was dedicated entirely to art and learning. We began again at Assi Ghat and later moved to Chet Singh Ghat, known for its historic fort and layered steps—a dream subject for urban sketchers.
The day included painting sessions and live demos by master artists Vikrant Shitole, Bijay Biswaal and Vijay Achrekar. Watching them work up close was a masterclass in itself—not just technique, but approach, patience and storytelling through art.
As evening fell, I witnessed the Ganga Aarti—a spectacle of fire, chants, bells and devotion. Even after seeing it multiple times in photos and videos, experiencing it in person is something else entirely.
Day 4: Ghats, Local Flavors and an Unexpected Pause
Day four took us to Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi, followed by Mahanirvani Ghat, known for its spiritual significance and quieter atmosphere.
The entire day went into painting—observing light, shadows, rituals and life unfolding along the river. In the evening, I stepped away from the ghats to explore local markets and taste Banaras’ famous street food.
Unfortunately, the day ended on a difficult note as I fell sick at night and had to consult a doctor. It was a reminder that travel has its unpredictability—and sometimes, the body asks for rest even when the mind wants to continue.
Day 5: Manikarnika Ghat, Gratitude and New Motivation
Our final day brought us to Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most spiritually powerful places in India. Known as the eternal cremation ground, it represents the cycle of life, death and liberation. Painting here required sensitivity, stillness and respect.
I had the honor of sitting beside Padma Shri awardee artist Vasudeo Kamath while painting. He took a moment to observe my work and admired it—a small but deeply meaningful moment for me.
