Varanasi

The Indian city of Varanasi, also known as Benares, is one of the sacred places of worship for followers of Hinduism. This colorful religious settlement was called in ancient times more Kashi. It is situated near the left bank of the Ganges, which is a fundamental part of the ritual actions of pilgrims here. From Delhi the capital city is located about 700 km southeast direction.

The name Varanasi was formed under the influence of the river Ganges. It is mix of the names of its two tributaries – passing through the northern part of town and that Varuna, which flows through the south – Asi. Often called the “city of temples”, “Sacred City of India”, “City of Lights,” “religious capital of India”, “city of learning” and “cultural capital of India”.

Varanasi is the Indian place for the followers, and Buddhist faith is like Mecca for Muslims and Christians of the Holy Sepulchre. Since 5000, the Benares is an important cultural, religious and historical center, which is believed to be protected by Lord Shiva. Mark Twain himself wrote that the city is “older than history, older than tradition, and even twice older than both together”.

Many Indian religious leaders, philosophers, poets, writers, singers and musicians even lived in the city, including Buddha, Sankara and Kabir. According to historical sources give Buddha his first sermon near the ancient Kashi. The place is one of the residential suburbs and is located 12 km from the holy city, called Sarnath. In his speech the Buddha reveals the eight steps to achieve no inner peace, enlightenment and nirvana. A little later, Emperor Ashoka built-Maury in honor of the great teacher about 34 meters high column and numerous stupas and sacred buildings.

Here the pilgrims come and sit at one of the preceding steps the river called ghat. There are about 2000 and over 100 hrama4 ghat, some of which are coastal and others – for cremations. Usually they are bathed in the waters of the Ganges and the ritual is known as Shuja. According to beliefs at sunrise immersion purifies the soul from sin, and who died here, and avoid reincarnation. About 1 million pilgrims come here to seek harmony every year.