Situated on the banks of Ganga, Varanasi is supposed to be one of the most historic towns in the world. Banaras is as popular in India as London in Britain. It is also viewed as the spiritual capital of India.
The town with its numerous temples draws thousands of visitors every month. It mostly attracts writers, photographers, and filmmakers from all over the world.
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India.
Visiting Varanasi provides a deep cultural and spiritual experience, and the city's timeless charm continues to attract visitors from around the world. It's a place where traditions, spirituality, and daily life intertwine in a way that is both fascinating and sacred.
Here are some of the interesting things about Varanasi, everyone ought to know-
1. Situated on the banks of River Ganga Cultural Hub
The town is supposed to be created in the 11th century BC. Hence, it is the world's most historic and populated city.
Varanasi has a rich cultural heritage and is a hub for classical music, dance, and art. The city hosts various cultural events, including the annual classical music festival, "Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh."
2. The town is broadly known as Kashi Ganga Aarti
The word Kashi and Banaras imply light. Hence, the place was called the 'city of light'. The town in early circumstances was popularly known as Kashi. It was subsequently renamed Banaras and is currently known as Varanasi.
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a mesmerizing and spiritual experience. Priests perform rituals with fire and lamps, accompanied by chanting and music, as an offering to the river.
3. The importance of the word Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The word Varanasi was created by mixing two Hindi words, Varuna and Asi. Varuna means a small tributary of Ganga, while Asi means a little water flow. This tributary begins in Bhadohi.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a center of devotion and attracts millions of pilgrims each year.
4. The dwelling place Sarnath
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati Visitors believe that other than Kailash, Varanasi was the dwelling place of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees from all over the world make a visit to the historic Kashi Vishwanath Temple every year.
Located near Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site has several stupas, monasteries, and the Ashoka Pillar.
5. Banaras Hindu University A Center for Learning
Other than being a spiritually significant city, Varanasi is additionally home to Asia's biggest private University, with over 20,000 students. It extends more than 1300 acres of land and was established in 1916.
Varanasi has been a center for learning and education for centuries. The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the largest residential universities in Asia.
6. The inception of Ayurveda and Yoga Street Food
The town is additionally connected to the root of the curing method of Ayurveda and Yoga. Maharishi Patanjali, who is said to have helped in growing both had a solid link with Varanasi.
The narrow lanes of Varanasi are filled with street food stalls offering a variety of local delicacies. Try the famous Benarasi Paan, kachori sabzi, and lassi while exploring the city.
7. Wash away your bad karma Spiritual Significance
Varanasi is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
People come here to wash away their bad karma in the Ganga water and to incinerate their loved ones. It is believed that if one inhales his or her last in Varanasi, he/she will achieve Mukti, regardless of his/her past bad karma.
8. 84 Ghats and 23,000 Temples Ghats Along the Ganges
The city is renowned for its ghats (steps leading down to the river), especially the Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. Pilgrims come to perform rituals and ceremonies along the Ganges River.
The town is home to around 23,000 sanctuaries. Among them, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most well-known. Varanasi has more than 84 ghats, out of which, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat are the most popular.
9. Dev Deepawali Boat Rides on the Ganges
When it comes to the festival, Kashities wait for Dev Deepawali more than Holi, Christmas, Diwali, or New Year. This festival comes amid Kartik Poornima.
Taking a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise or sunset is a must-do activity. It offers a unique perspective of the ghats and the rituals taking place along the river.
10. Banarasi Silk Sarees
Varanasi is famous for its Banarasi silk sarees. These handwoven sarees are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors and are a popular choice for weddings and special occasions.
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