Railway Exam » Railway Exam Study Materials » Geography » The Holy City of Varanasi

The Holy City of Varanasi

The article gives a brief introduction to the Holy city of Varanasi. The article discusses the places to visit in Varanasi. It also describes the temples of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

Varanasi is often called the “Holy City of India.” The Holy city of Varanasi is situated on the banks of the  Ganges River and surrounded by beautiful temples. This ancient city has been the centre of Hinduism for millennia. Depictions of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, can be found throughout Indian art and culture, and it ranks among one of the most revered cities in India, even today. Varanasi is in India’s North-Central region with a long history as an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Today, Varanasi is one of India’s most culturally rich and important cities, being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally.

History of Varanasi

Varanasi has a long history as an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Today, the city is one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Along with the holy Ganges River and its temples, Varanasi is also important learning, culture, and art centre. Students from all over India come to Varanasi to receive a traditional education in large and influential universities.

Varanasi is a place in North-Central India. Because the city is located on the banks of the holy Ganges River and surrounded by beautiful temples, it has long been a centre of Hinduism. 

Varanasi is known for hosting thousands of Hindus daily searching for spiritual atonement and cleansing. The city, known as Benares until the 18th century, is an important Hindu pilgrimage site, and its temples are regarded as some of the holiest in the world. People come to Varanasi not only in search of worship but also to make offerings to the river, which Hindus believe is a gateway to heaven. Temples and other places associated with Hinduism are found throughout Varanasi’s streets and neighbourhoods.

Famous residents of Varanasi include the poet Kalidasa, who is said to have composed his great works there. Also, the Hindi movie star Dev Anand was born in the city.

Important things you should Know

Varanasi is one of India’s most culturally rich and historic cities, but it has also long been regarded as a religious centre.

The city is an important Hindu pilgrimage site, and it holds special significance among the holy places associated with Shiva. Varanasi has also been influential in the spread of Hinduism throughout Southeast Asia and is still a place of worship for Hindus of all sects today. Many Hindus believe that bathing in the Ganges River during certain times will purify their souls, ridding them of sin and ushering them into heaven when they die.

Varanasi’s holiest temples include Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Durga Temple. The former is the world’s oldest continually-inhabited temple, and it still draws many thousands of pilgrims yearly. The latter is a major pilgrimage site, and it is best known for its seven spires that approach the sky. Also, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is home to a large statue of Shiva.

Varanasi was an important centre for learning in medieval India, with many leading Hindi scholars being born there. Today, the city hosts one of India’s most prestigious universities: Banaras Hindu University. Varanasi has also been the site of many political protests, where demonstrators have come together to speak out against injustices in Indian society.

Varanasi is an important centre for Hindi art and culture. Many famous Hindi celebrities hail from the city, and it remains a popular location for Hindi film shoots today.

Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally, and the city was first mentioned in texts more than 3,000 years ago. It was once a major trade centre along India’s historic trade Road, and it later became known as Benares. Today, Varanasi is a major industrial and tourism centre, with many businesspeople coming to the city for its many festivals. The most famous of these events are Karteeka Bahula Panchami and Shravan Purnima.

The holy city of Varanasi consists of the ghats, a set of steps on the edge of the Ganges River that leads to a journey through what Varanasi roughly means “City on the Bank” or “Moksha-agrapha” (abode for liberation). The ancient city is one of India’s oldest inhabited areas. Its surroundings have been inhabited for about 3,000 years. It was also an important centre for Buddhism and Hinduism during this time. 

Conclusion

Varanasi is a city that has long been an important centre of Hinduism and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. Today, Varanasi continues to be a unique place for religious worship and pilgrimage. It is also an important centre for Hindi art and culture. Varanasi’s holiest temples include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple, and Shankheshwar Temples. The city is home to Banaras Hindu University, one of India’s most prestigious universities.

faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the Railway Examination Preparation.

What are some great places to visit in Varanasi?

Ans. Varanasi is famous for its temples, and many tourists are attracted to them. Some of the major places to...Read full

What is the history behind Banaras Hindu University?

Ans. Banaras Hindu University, more commonly known as BHU, was established in 1916. It is one of the most prestigiou...Read full

What are the museums in Varanasi?

Ans. There are many museums in Varanasi that portray various aspects of...Read full

What is the significance of Varanasi as a pilgrimage centre?

Ans. The spiritual tradition of Varanasi can be traced back to the Vedi...Read full