BENARES (BANARASA, VARANASI) …..They have rosaries around their necks and glittering jugs in their hands—they cannot be called the saints of Hari, they are the Thugs of Benares (Varanasi).(Asa Kabir, pp. 476) He lives on the bank of Asi rivulet in Benares (Varanasi). (Gond Namdev, p. 873) It is the sacred city of the Hindus, being a great religious centre. It is also called Kashi. After killing Kansa and restoring the throne of Mathura to Ugarsen, Krishna came to Kashi for higher education, because this city had been famous for higher religious education.
There is an old belief that whosoever dies here, goes to heaven. Keeping in view this belief many people used to pass their last days of lire here. Kabir, in his hymns, has rejected this belief. Some people used to get their heads sawed at Kashi for obtaining salvation. (Sorath M. 5, p. 642). See also Kashi
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed, Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Benares, also known as Banaras or Varanasi, is one of the most sacred cities in Hindu mythology and culture. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, India, it is often referred to as Kashi, meaning “the luminous city,” symbolizing its spiritual radiance.
Mythological Significance
- City of Lord Shiva: Varanasi is believed to be founded by Lord Shiva himself, making it a central hub for Shaivism. It is said that Shiva resides in Varanasi eternally, blessing devotees who come to seek liberation (moksha).
- Gateway to Moksha: In Hindu belief, dying in Varanasi and being cremated on its ghats ensures liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). The city is considered a spiritual portal to the divine.
- Ganges River: The Ganges, flowing through Varanasi, is revered as a goddess in Hindu mythology. Bathing in its waters is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
- Temples and Ghats: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. The ghats along the river, such as Manikarnika and Dasaswamedh, are sites of rituals, prayers, and cremations.
Historical and Cultural Contributions
- Vedic Roots: Varanasi has been a center of Vedic learning and philosophy for millennia, attracting scholars and sages.
- Bhakti Movement: Saints like Kabir and Tulsidas lived in Varanasi, contributing to devotional literature and spiritual teachings.
- Art and Music: The city is renowned for its classical music tradition, silk weaving, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Varanasi embodies the essence of spirituality, blending mythology, history, and devotion. Its timeless allure continues to draw pilgrims and seekers from around the world. Would you like to explore its temples, rituals, or legends further? Let me know!
