Varanasi {World’s oldest place}

Overview

Varanasi, also referred to as Benaras (and Kashi), is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. The significance of Varanasi in Hindu mythology is almost unknown. Mark Twain, the English writer and literary figure, who was captivated by the lore and holiness of Benaras, once stated: “Benaras predates history, predates tradition, and is even older than legend, appearing twice as ancient as all three combined.” The region of Varanasi (Kashi) has long been the prime pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Hindus hold the belief that those who are fortunate enough to pass away in Varanasi will achieve salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Home of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the beginnings of Varanasi remain uncertain. The Ganges in Varanasi is thought to possess the ability to cleanse humans of their sins. Hindus hold the belief that those fortunate enough to pass away in Varanasi will achieve liberation and escape the cycle of reincarnation. The city has been a hub of education and culture for more than 3000 years. The Ganges is believed to originate from the hair of Lord Shiva and in Varanasi, it grows into the great river we recognize today. Located just 10 km from Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon following enlightenment, Varanasi represents a symbol of Hindu revival. For centuries, knowledge, philosophy, culture, worship of deities, and Indian arts and crafts have thrived in this region. Varanasi is also a pilgrimage site for Jains and is considered the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. Vaishnavism and Shaivism have lived together peacefully in Varanasi. Varanasi has long been an important hub of education. Varanasi is linked to the advancement of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga, and the Hindi language, celebrating renowned writers like the well-known. Indian arts and crafts have thrived in this region for centuries. Varanasi is also a pilgrimage site for Jains and is thought to be the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. Vaishnavism and Shaivism have existed together in Varanasi peacefully. Varanasi has long served as a significant hub of education. Varanasi is linked to the advancement of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga, and the Hindi language, honoring notable figures like the renowned novelist Prem Chand and the esteemed saint-poet Tulsi Das, who composed the Ram Charit Manas. Well-deservedly known as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi has offered the ideal environment for various cultural activities to thrive. Numerous artists in dance and music have originated from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the globally celebrated Sitar virtuoso, and Ustad Bismillah Khan, the well-known Shehnai artist, are both from the blessed city or have spent significant portions of their lives here. Due to several temples, Mrs. Annie Besant selected Varanasi as the headquarters for her ‘Theosophical Society’.