Scottish actor Gerard Butler shared his deeply spiritual journey in Varanasi, India, in a video that recently went viral, describing the experience as “beautiful, magical, mystical.” Recalling his visit to the ancient city, Butler said that he felt a deep happiness upon his arrival.

“I felt great when I reached Varanasi. I meditated on the banks of the Ganges at the ghats. “I did a special puja and it was very powerful for me,” Butler said, describing the impact of her visit to one of the holiest sites in Hinduism.

The actor detailed the enchanting evening he spent at the iconic Ganga Aarti, where he watched the ceremony from a boat. Touched by the devotion and energy of the ritual, Butler called it “one of the most magical days of my life,” adding: “I thought, this is the best day I’ve ever had, it’s so connected, it’s so beautiful, it’s so magical.”

The Lonbdon Has Fallen actor last visited Varanasi 10 years ago and the video was shot during his visit to Safarnama House, one of Varanasi’s most iconic hostels.

Butler’s reflections on his time in Varanasi highlight the city’s enduring cultural and spiritual appeal, attracting people from around the world seeking profound, life-changing experiences along the sacred Ganges.