Varanasi or Banaras, the ‘Abode of Lord Shiva’ is one of the oldest living cities in the world.
It place in Hindu mythology is virtually unrivalled and is in fact, the microcosm if Hinduism.
According to legends, the city was created by Lord Shiva himself and the Puranic literature dates its existence to at least three millennia.
Early history of Varanasi is replete with hoary tales of plunder and destruction by conquerors and religious zealots.
Kashi, the mythological name of this eternal city is said to be derived from the word ‘Kashi’, meaning shrine or bright, as it was considered to be the ‘city of light’ or spiritual luminance.
Present name is a combination of Varuna and Asi, the town tributaries of Ganga flowing along the northern and southern borders of the holy city.
At Varanasi, Buddha and Mahavira preached and Shankracharya wrote his commentaries on Hinduism.
Patanjali, the Sanskrit grammarian wrote Mahabhasya and Tulsidas composed Ramcharitamanas.
And Kabir preached amity between religions.
Varanasi is also an important centre of education and has produced several world renowned academicians, musicians’ artists.
It is a famous centre for fine arts and crafts.
Benarasi silk sari with zari brocading in gold and silver and fine metal wires is a priceless possession of any Indian woman.
It also has a rich repertoire of silver, brass, copper artefacts and trinkets as well as aromatic perfumeries.
There is no Indian attraction like Varanasi.
It is much more than just a mere city, but is a way of life.