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The holy city of Varanasi is one of those cities of India, which are as popular outside as they are within India. However, this city is actually an old crumbling community of the era of temples, palaces, kings, queens, courts, courtiers, dancers, musicians and courtesans. It is one of the oldest towns of India. As a centre of education also it dates back to more than 2000 years. Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon at a place called Sarnath, a few kilometres away from Varanasi. Religious scholars not only from India but also all over the world congregated here. Today the Benaras Hindu University that prides on being Asia’s biggest Universitry is furthering the tradition of education.
The original name of Varanasi is Kashi. The origin goes to a Sanskrit word ‘kas’ meaning light. The city being the seat of religious and spiritual learning was perhaps thought of as an elucidation of life and thereby the name. Mythology also holds that this was the original piece of land created by the creator of the Universe, Lord Shiva after which the rest of the Universe came into being. The name Varanasi also has its origin from the rivers Varun and Asi between which Varanasi exists. The onslaught of various cultures on the city converted its name to Benaras. Now it has officially been re-christened Varanasi.
Varanasi the holy city is famous for its spiritualism and cosmic impressions. It is a city where life and death both are held in equal veneration. People from all over the country come here in the belief that if death comes to them in this city then the doorway to the heavens awaits them. It is the ultimate achievement of ‘moksha’. ‘Moksha’ or ‘Nirvana’ as it is also popularly known means freedom from the perpetual cycle of birth and death and again rebirth. Another element of mystique in this city is the holy river Ganga. The Ganga the most important river of the Indian Subcontinent is held much in reverence since it is believed that all human sins are washed off by a dip in its sanctified waters. The water may have greyed with pollution but not the belief of the people who travel sometimes thousands of miles to come to the holy city and to the holy river.
The river perhaps is the lifeline of this city. It is difficult to envisage a Varanasi without the Ganga. The narrow alleys, which pass off for streets, covered with the dirt, grime, and betel nut stains lead to the ‘ghats’ or the banks of the river. These ‘ghats’ are the hub of the religious ceremonies of the Hindus. From the cremation of dead and associated rites to celebration of birth and its various rituals, all are adhered to on these ‘ghats’. The city is in fact situated along the bank of this river and one can view the skyline of Varanasi with its old but dilapidated palatial homes and slums to the modern day buildings. The view of sunrise over the river Ganga is perhaps the most soothing and beautiful aspect of the whole trip to Varanasi. It warrants a boat ride on the river to purely savour this experience. At the times of worship or ‘puja’ as it is locally called, the air is resonant with the chanting of mantras and hymns. The whiff of incense and flowers, the fire and the smoke all make you realise what a small speck you are in the whole scheme of things.
However, river Ganga is only one-sided view of the religious charisma of Varanasi. The city is also known for its beautiful and old temples. In fact Varanasi is dotted with temples. You will find one around every turn. The religious activities in these temples reach a feverish peak during the festivals. No doubt the devout Hindus consider Varanasi more as a pilgrimage place than a tourist destination.
Any visit to this place is not complete if you do not buy the world famous Benarsi Saris. A sari is the traditional dress of Indian women and her wedding trousseau must contain a Benarsi sari. These saris are made using fine silk threads, which are then intricately woven together to produce a magnificent piece of art. The age-old brocade work on the saris using delicate golden threads is finding footing in the modern day fashion industry on dresses apart from the sari, too.
During the reign of Mughal rulers danced and music flourished in this city. Some of the famous Indian musicians and dancers can trace back the history of their art to Varanasi. Even today the streets of Varanasi are home to musicians and instrument makers who specialise in their fields. The city is often host to glittering classical dance and music festivals.
A city that mirrors India in itself can be an ideal tourist destination. If you are just a wee bit careful about yourself and your possessions you can make the trip fairly enjoyable and comfortable. Don’t trust strangers and make all arrangements of travel beforehand. Dress appropriately and modestly. Respect the traditional and cultural values of others and gain respect for yourself.
Today modernisation is changing the appearance of life all over the world and Varanasi is no exception. As life becomes increasingly materialistic and struggle for survival more intense than ever, Varanasi also is slowly but surely acquiring a metropolitan look. It has become more tourist friendly than ever. There are sites providing immense information about Varanasi on the web and they are not tough to search. A lot of groundwork regarding hotel information, air/train reservations and other arrangements can be worked out with reputed travel agents before you set foot on the holy land. Small souvenirs to take back home will be easy to find. But the souvenirs you will cherish the most, will be the memories of the days spent here—the journey on the rickshaw, the boat ride at the crack of dawn , the adamant priest on the ‘ghat’ or the nagging beggar outside a temple. However you will also take back a feeling of refreshed spirituality and a cleaner soul.
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