Varanasi The Untold Story Tradition A Historical Perspective
Varanasi
Beyond being a holy city on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi—also referred to as Kashi or Benares—is much more than that. It’s a living museum of customs, some concealed and some visible.
10 must-visit places that showcase its rich history Of Varanasi
1. Alamgir Mosque
The story of religious cooperation from this mosque. Constructed by Aurangzeb, it blends Islamic and Hindu architectural elements on the location of the Vishwanath Temple. Parts of the old temple can still be seen in the mosque’s foundation, illustrating Varanasi’s nuanced religious past.
2. Temple of Bharat Mata
Unlike conventional temples, this one has a massive marble relief map of all of India. It presents an alternative viewpoint on Varanasi’s religious environment with its distinctive fusion of nationalism and spirituality.
3. Ramnagar Fort
This 18th-century fort, which formerly housed the Maharaja of Banaras, is now home to an oddball museum with antique cars, royal palkis (palanquins), and an oddball astrological clock. It offers a peek into the past as a royal metropolis.
4. Chunar Fort
Situated somewhat beyond Varanasi, this fort has witnessed numerous monarchs, ranging from the Mughals to the British. Stories of sieges, wars, and shifting eras are whispered within its walls.
5. Man Mandir Observatory
This observatory was constructed in the sixteenth century, before its more well-known cousin in Jaipur. It demonstrates Varanasi’s significance to Indian mathematics and astronomy in antiquity.
6. Temple of Sankat Mochan
This temple, renowned for its religious significance, was involved in the Indian independence movement as well. In addition to its spiritual significance, it added a political history element as a gathering spot for liberation fighters.
7. Asi Ghat
Asi, one of the less congested ghats, is thought to be the location where the Asi River formerly joined the Ganges. Because of the significant archeological discoveries that date back to 800 BCE, it is well-known.
8. Temple of Tulsi Manas
This contemporary temple, constructed in the location where the saint-poet Tulsidas penned the Ramcharitmanas, is evidence of Varanasi’s literary legacy. Poetry from the epic is carved into the walls, fusing literature and building design.
9. Well, Gyan Vapi
This well, which is close to the well-known Kashi Vishwanath Temple, has a contentious past. It is said to be the location of the original Shiva lingam’s hiding place during Aurangzeb’s rule, signifying a turbulent time in the history of the city.
10. Kabir Calculus
This math (monastery), dedicated to the spiritual poet Kabir of the fifteenth century, embodies Varanasi’s legacy of religious tolerance. Kabir’s teachings, which mirrored the syncretic culture of the city, combined Islamic and Hindu philosophy.
