Glimpses of Oldest Living Civilisation : City of Light : Benares / Kashi / Varanasi in India

Benares : City Of Light 

Writing about Varanasi evokes a sense of passion in me that is hard to describe in words. It is a city that has captured my heart and soul, and I feel a deep connection to it. Varanasi is not just a city, but it is a way of life. It is a place where spirituality, culture, and traditions merge seamlessly, and where the past and the present coexist in perfect harmony. 

So here is an attempt to take you all on a virtual tour of few glimpses of my tour with my best KG buddy Nitin visiting from US. It was a exploratory journey ......

Varanasi, also known as Benares and Kashi, is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to over 3000 years. The city is famous for its temples, ghats, and the river Ganga, which is considered holy by Hindus.

The city of Varanasi is often referred to as the 'City of Death' and the 'City of Light'. The former is due to the belief that dying in Varanasi and being cremated on the banks of the Ganga brings salvation and frees the soul from the cycle of rebirth. The latter refers to the spiritual energy that is said to emanate from the city, and the belief that it is a place where one can attain enlightenment and spiritual awakening.

The Ganga, or Ganges, is the lifeblood of Varanasi. It is the reason why the city exists, and it is the reason why it is considered holy. The river flows from its source in the Himalayas, through the plains of northern India, and into the Bay of Bengal. It is a lifeline for millions of people who live along its banks, and it is revered as a goddess by Hindus.

One of the unique features of the Ganga in Varanasi is that it flows from south to north, unlike most rivers in India that flow from north to south. This is due to the fact that the river takes a sharp turn to the east just before reaching the city, and then flows northwards. This geographical phenomenon has puzzled scientists and geographers for centuries, and has been the subject of many studies and research papers.

When in Varanasi, a boat ride along the river Ganga is a must-do activity. The boat ride takes you along the ghats, giving you a panoramic view of the city. You can see people performing their daily rituals, washing clothes, and taking a dip in the river. It is an excellent opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of Varanasi.

The Ghats of Varanasi are perhaps the most famous feature of the city. Ghats are the steps that lead down to the river, and there are over 84 of them in Varanasi. Each ghat has its own history and significance, and each is associated with a particular deity or legend.

Harishchandra Ghat is one of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi. It is named after King Harishchandra, a legendary king who is said to have sacrificed everything for the sake of truth and righteousness. The ghat is associated with the ritual of cremation, and is considered one of the most sacred places in Varanasi.It is believed that Lord Vishnu helped King Harishchandra overcome his troubles, and the ghat is named after him.

Manikarnika Ghat is perhaps the most famous and busiest ghat in Varanasi. It is also known as the 'Burning ghat', and is where most of the cremations take place. The Manikarnika Ghat, where the cremation ceremonies take place, is a reminder of the cycle of life and death.The ghat is named after the goddess Manikarnika, who is believed to have created a well at the site by piercing the ground with her earring.

The city has a unique energy that is hard to describe. One of the best ways to experience Varanasi is by taking a walk through the narrow lanes of the old city. The lanes are full of interesting sights, sounds, and smells. As you walk through the winding lanes of the old city, you can feel the pulse of the place. The sights, sounds, and smells overwhelm your senses and take you on a journey of self-discovery. You can see ancient temples, vibrant markets, and colorful buildings. You can also get a glimpse of the daily lives of the locals, who are always ready to welcome visitors with open arms.

The Ganga, which flows through the city, is a source of life and spirituality for the people of Varanasi. It is believed that a dip in the holy waters of the river can cleanse your soul and wash away your sins.

Another popular attraction in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, and it is said to be the holiest of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple has a rich history and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. It is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by narrow lanes and bustling markets.

Finally, when in Varanasi, be prepared for the chaotic traffic on the roads. The streets are narrow, and the traffic can be overwhelming at times. However, the energy and vibrancy of the city more than make up for it. It is a city that has something to offer to everyone, and once you experience it, it will stay with you forever.

Varanasi is also famous for its street food, which is a reflection of its rich cultural diversity. Some of the popular street foods include chaat, lassi, samosas, kachoris, and jalebis. There are many famous street food places in Varanasi, such as Kachori Gali, Ram Bhandar, and Deena Chaat Bhandar, to name a few. These places are always crowded with locals and tourists alike, and the aroma of the food is irresistible.

The aroma of freshly cooked food fills the air, and your taste buds are in for a treat. 

Finally, the Ganga Aarti is a daily ritual that is a sight to behold. It takes place at the Dasaswamedh Ghat, and it is a celebration of life and spirituality. The sound of the bells, the smell of the incense, and the sight of the lamps floating on the river create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. It is a reminder that life is a precious gift, and we should cherish every moment of it.

In conclusion, Varanasi is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. It is a city that has captured the hearts of people from all over the world, and it continues to fascinate and intrigue visitors to this day. Whether you are here for a spiritual experience, to soak in the rich culture, or to indulge in the delicious street food, Varanasi is a city that will leave a lasting impression.\

It is a city that has left an indelible mark on my soul, and I hope that my words have conveyed the same passion and emotion that I feel for this magical city.

I will write in detail for the Plan to short vacation also in my next blog visit to Sarnath near Varanasi.....