EXPLORING VARANASI
Author:
Ravindra Nath
Srivastava 2/413, Vivek Khand, Gomtinagar,
Lucknow-226010,
Uttar Pradesh,
India
phone:91 522 6536507
srivastava_rn@yahoo.com
For Publication
History and Culture of Varanasi
History of Varanasi is, perhaps, as old as the Indian
civilization itself. In the Indian mythology,
Varanassi or Kashi finds an important place.The name
Varanasi has been derived from the river ”Varuna” and
“Assi Ghat” situated at the banks of holy river
“Ganga”.
The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate
pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Often referred to
as Benaras, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the
world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all:
"Benaras is older than history, older than tradition,
older even than legend and looks twice as old as all
of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is
graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain
salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and
re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins
of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is
believed to have the power to wash away the sins of
mortals.
Ganges (Ganga) is said to have its origins in the
tresses of
Lord Shiva and in Varanasi, it expands to the mighty
river that we know of. The city has been a center of
learning and civilization for over 3000 years. With
Sarnath, the place where Buddha preached his first
sermon after enlightenment, just 10 km away, Varanasi
has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance. Knowledge,
philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and
crafts have all flourished here for centuries. Also a
pilgrimage place for Jains, Varanasi is believed to be
the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third
Tirthankar.
Vaishnavism and Shaivism have co-existed in Varanasi
harmoniously. With a number of temples, Mrs. Annie
Besant chose Varanasi as the home for her
'Theosophical Society' and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya,
to institute 'Benares Hindu University, the biggest
University in Asia. Ayurveda is said to be originated
at Varanasi and is believed to be the basis of modern
medical sciences such as Plastic surgery, Cataract and
Calculus operations. Maharshi Patanjali, the preceptor
of Ayurveda and Yoga, was also affiliated with
Varanasi, the holy city. Varanasi is also famous for
its trade and commerce, especially for the finest
silks and gold and silver brocades, since the early
days.
srivastava_rn@yahoo.com