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Varanasi, or Benaras,
(also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world.
Varanasi`s Prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrevealed. Mark
Twain, the English author and literature, who was enthralled by the
legend and sanctity of Benaras, once wrote : "Benaras is older than
history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as
old as all of them put together" . According to the ‘Vamana Purana’, the
Varuna and the Assi rivers originated from the body of the primordial
Person at the beginning of time itself. The tract of land lying between
them is believed to be ‘Varanasi’, the holiest of all pilgrimages.
The word ‘Kashi’ originated from the word ‘Kas’ which means to shine.
Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, Kashi is the ‘original
ground ‘ created by Shiva and Parvati, upon which they stood at the
beginning of time. Varanasi is the microcosm of Hinduism, a city of
traditional classical culture, glorified by myth and legend and
sanctified by religion , it has always attracted a large number of
pilgrims and worshippers from time immemorial. To be in Varanasi is an
experience in itself…. an experience in self–discovery… an eternal
oneness of the body and soul.
To every visitor; Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience. The rays of
the dawn shimmer -ing across the Ganges… the high-banks ; the temples
and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue …soul stirring hymns
and mantras alongwith the fragrance of incense filling the air…and the
refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing at the Ghats.
Varanasi – the land where experience and discovery reach the ultimate
bliss.
Varanasi is also renowned for its rich tapestry of music, arts, crafts
and education. Some of the world renowned exponents India has produced
in these fields were schooled in Varanasi’s cultural ethos. Luminaries
apart, Varanasi abounds in the art of silk weaving, an exotic work of
art which manifests itself in precious Banarasi Silk Sarees and Silk
brocades which are cherished as collector’s items across the world
today.
Source
of Information:- NIC Varanasi |
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