Varanasi: The Charm of the World’s Oldest City
Introduction
My relationship with Varanasi is extremely different since I have always been a devotee of Shiva and because of all the legends my parents told me as I was growing up. The bond that I have with Varanasi is quiet special. Given my ties to Lord Shiva and my passion for ancient history, Varanasi is a particular destination for me. Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city where Lord Shiva himself lived. It’s a place where history, religion, and culture come together to create something truly special.
Let’s explore why Varanasi is called the world’s oldest living city and what makes it so unique.
Kashi is derived from the words Kaś that means ‘to shine’. Kashi is thus also known as the ‘city of light’.
A city stuck in history
Varanasi has been around for more than 3000 years, making it one of the oldest living city. When you walk across its narrow streets, you will come across really old buildings, busy and busting markets and a blend of traditions that blend the past and present. It’s place where the past continues to breath and thrive in the present.
My recent visit to this ancient city was a captivating journey through history.
A hub of Spirituality
Varanasi is renowned for its spiritual significance. People from all over the globe visit the city to seek solace and forge the deeper connection with God.
The ghat’s which are stepping towards the sacred Ganges river, serve as a meeting point for life and death. Experience the rituals and taking a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise and sunset is a life changing experience and it leaves an expression on you which you cannot define into words.
The city has 88 ghats in total, and the energy you experience there is something else particularly strong at the Manikarnika Ghat.
The place where death is celebrated over life
Many people believe that the cremations at Manikarnika Ghat generate spiritual energy and help the deceased’s souls reach freedom and peace. The ghat is of great spiritual significance in Hinduism. You get the importance of life after reaching that place.
A River of Reverence: The Ganges
Millions of people in India and elsewhere hold a special and profound place in their hearts for the Ganges River, often known as the Ganga. It is more than just a river; it is a representation of awe, devotion, and spirituality.
The Ganges is essential to people’s daily lives as the lifeblood of Varanasi and numerous other cities and towns along its journey. The Ganges River is revered for its holy and purifying waters, and bathing in it is regarded as a religious practice. Many different types of people come to its banks to make amends for their misdeeds, ask for blessings, and create a relationship with God.
In Hindu mythology, it is believed that bathing in the river Ganga causes the remission of sins and facilitates the attainment of salvation or nirvana.
The Ganga Aarti, a lavish ceremony done at Varanasi’s ghats, is proof of the river’s importance. The ghats come alive as dusk falls with priests, lamps, incense, and musical chants. This rite, which is carried out every evening, honours the river as a goddess and is a spellbinding display. It is a time when the spiritual and material worlds seem to converge, inspiring awe and devotion in all who see it.
The Spiritual Magnificence of Kashi Vishwanath
As we all know the city of Varanasi is all about Shiva, Lord Shiva and Kashi, also known as Varanasi or Banaras, have a long history in Hindu spirituality and mythology. Kashi is regarded as one of India’s holiest towns and is extremely important in Lord Shiva devotion.
Shiva’s Connection with Kashi
Lord Shiva’s decision to reside in the city and the accompanying events are central to the Kashi tale. Shiva initially abandoned Kashi, and Lord Brahma chose a sage by the name of Ripunjay to lead the city. Ripunjay assumed the throne of King Divodasa, establishing a period of wealth and justice under the condition that no gods or other supernatural beings would interfere with his authority. However, Brahma’s blessing prohibited Lord Shiva from going back to Kashi, despite his yearning. There were numerous efforts to overthrow Divodasa’s rule, but they all failed. Finally, Lord Vishnu came up with a scheme to persuade Divodasa to apologize and extend a request to Shiva to return to Kashi through Lord Ganesha. Shiva eventually made his way back to the city, and Varanasi developed into a respected destination for pilgrims seeking
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath temple is also known as the Golden Temple, is a very important Hindu temple in Varanasi,India. It’s all about Lord Shiva, a major Hindu god.
Where is it? It’s on the side of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Why is it special? It is regarded as one of the holiest destinations by Hindus. They come here to pray to Lord Shiva and take a holy bath in the Ganges.
Why is Varanasi important? Varanasi is an ancient city and a major spiritual and cultural hub in India. The temple is a big part of its history and culture.
Visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a deeply spiritual and cultural experience for many Hindus, and it continues to be a significant pilgrimage destination. The temple and the city of Varanasi are integral to the spiritual fabric of India.
Cultural Kaleidoscope
Varanasi is not just a center for spirituality but also a vibrant center for culture. I was amazed by the vibrant music, classical dancing, and local arts. The magnificent representation of the city’s extensive creative tradition is the finely woven Banarasi silk saree.
The Flavor of Varanasi
The local cuisine is a must-try on any vacation, and Varanasi has plenty to offer. In the congested streets, you may indulge in warm kachoris and delectable chaats or order a traditional thali at a nearby restaurant, where every dish is brimming with flavour. After your lunch, be sure to try the renowned “paan”; it will leave a pleasant taste in your tongue.
The Challenges of Preservation
Even though I admired Varanasi’s historic beauty, I was forced to consider the contemporary problems it faces, including overcrowding, pollution, and the need for preservation. Initiatives to encourage sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices are part of continuous efforts to save the city’s legacy.
Conclusion
Varanasi is more than just a city; it is a timeless, universal experience. My visit to Varanasi was more than just a quick stop; it was a profound immersion into the city’s culture, spirituality, and humanity. As I said goodbye to this historic city, I took more than just memories with me; I also brought a fresh appreciation for Varanasi, the longest continuously inhabited city in the world.
In Varanasi, the spirituality of the Ganges pours through every cobblestone, and a vivid tapestry of cultural diversity surrounds you at every step. It’s a location where the past and present coexist peacefully, providing a window into the indelible qualities of India’s cultural legacy.
I was reminded of the profound connection between life and death, cleanliness, and salvation by the Ganges River and its rituals and dedication. The cultural diversity celebrated in the music, dancing, and handicrafts reminded me of the live traditions that call Varanasi home, while the temples and ghats murmured tales of centuries past.
When I left Varanasi, I didn’t simply say goodbye to a city; I also left a piece of my heart in its busy ghats and meandering alleys. It is a location that sticks in your memory and teaches you about the tenacity of tradition and the grace of spirituality.
As I return to the modern world, I carry Varanasi with me as a reminder that amidst the chaos of life, there are places like this, where history and spirituality stand as eternal pillars.
VARANASI IS OLDER THAN HISTORY , OLDER THAN TRADITION, OLDER EVEN THAN LEGEND AND LOOKS TWICE AS OLD AS ALL OF THEM PUT TOGETHER.
IT IS A STRANGE CITY WHERE YOU CAN FEEL LIKE A DWELLER AND AN ALIEN AT THE SAME TIME. IT IS ANCIENT, MODERN, PROGRESSIVE, AND SOMETIMES REGRESSIVE ALL AT ONCE — RICHA CHADDA
