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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.
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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.
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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.