Why Banaras Is Known as the Spiritual Capital of India?

One of the most sought-after cities in Varanasi as well. It is one of the oldest cities in the world to have still people living in it, and it is very old. For Hindus, this place, also known as Kashi or Benaras, holds great significance.

Source- Wikipedia

According to Mark Twain, it is "older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks as old with all of them put together." With its abundance of temples, river ghats, forts, and prehistoric influences, this city is the best place to experience the authentic culture of India.

With almost two thousand temples erected in every corner of the city, Varanasi is referred to as the Spiritual Capital of India. These temples are mostly from the Middle Ages. The city is also referred to as the "City of Temples" due to the sheer number of temples there.

This historic city, which is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, welcomes a large number of visitors and pilgrims all year long. Hindus associate this city with great significance, and it is commonly thought that those who pass away here are freed from the never-ending cycle of life and death.

That, however, does not capture all the allure of this enchanted city, for its temples and forts house countless examples of the best architectural design. For this reason, it is not only the ideal location for pilgrims but also very desirable for those who enjoy history.

Reasons for Spiritual or Religious Supremacy

1. The Numbers of Ancient Temples

This holy city has a significant number of temples devoted to Lord Shiva because the city's founding is frequently linked to him. In addition, there are temples honoring other gods. People who want to pray at these temples to receive blessings from the gods frequently visit them. There is a lot of peace and tranquillity in these temples.

There are many well-known temples in Varanasi, including the temples dedicated to Kashi Vishwanath, Tulsi Manas, Bharat Mata, Durga, Sankat Mochan, Kal Bhairav, Mrityunjaya, and others. Offering respects to the Jyotirlinga, which is kept in the Lord Shiva-focused Vishwanath temple, is said to be a cleansing ritual that erases sins from your life.

Just as fascinating as the Shikhara of Durga Temple is the engraved walls of Tulsi Manas Temple. The large group of monkeys that live close to the Sankat Mochan temple contribute to its popularity. Collectively, these temples add to the city's amazing architectural legacy.

2. The Holy Ghats

Varanasi is unique among India's holy cities because of its ghats. The term "ghat" describes the steps that line the Ganga River. The pilgrims who pass through these ghats are renowned for their daily rituals. Some of them are used for evening Aarti, while others serve as cremation sites. Varanasi boasts over eighty ghats.

A person is said to be forgiven of all sins by taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ghats. Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Assi Ghat, and others are among the most well-known ones. Assi Ghat marks the meeting point of the Ganga and the Assi River; the oldest burning ghat is Harishchandra Ghat.

Manikarnika Ghat is well-known for being the cremation site, but Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most impressive because it holds the busiest Ganga Aarti every day in the evening with puja and dance. In this place, cremation appears to continue day or night.

3. The Captivating Site of Ganga Aarti

All of Varanasi's ghats are used for Ganga Aarti, but the Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most visually stunning. Every evening, as soon as the sun sets (approximately 6 or 7 p.m. during the summer), the Aarti begins. Ninety minutes before the ceremony, people start gathering near the river.

Hindu worship revolves primarily around the Aarti. Facing the object of worship involves the act of waving lamps in a circular motion while singing and chanting. Seven saints do the Ganga Aarti, chanting prayers, hymns, and mantras in adoration of the Ganges River.

The lighting of camphor lamps and the blowing of conch shells mark the conclusion of the ceremony. The entire ceremony lasts for about 45 minutes, after which the river returns to its peaceful state. The saints and tourists all scatter. This is a unique experience since one learns a great deal about Hinduism's culture and beliefs during this ceremony.

Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

1. Ganges River

2. Sarnath

3. Dasaswamedha Ghat

4. Assi Ghat

5. Banaras Ghat

6. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

7. Manikarnika Ghat

8. New Vishwanath Temple

9. Sankat Mochan Temple

10. Monkey Temple

11. Banaras Hindu University

12. Tulsi Manas Temple

13. Nepali Temple

14. Tibetan Temple

15. Dhamek Stupa

16. Garden of Spiritual Wisdom

17. Batuk Bhirav Temple

18. Harishchandra Ghat

19. Kedar Ghat

20. Thai Temple

These are not even 50% of the places that I have mentioned here. It is not possible to complete the tour in a day. These are the attractions and real portrayals of the city.

Must-Have Foods in Varanasi

1. Tamatar Chaat

2. Kachori Sabzi

3. Baati Chokha

4. Dahi Chutney Golgappe

5. Choora Matar

6. The very famous item- Malaiyyo

7. Thandai

8. The Paan of Banaras

9. Rabri Jalebi

10. Blue Lassi

Malaiyyo, Tamatar-chaat, and the Paan are the highly recommended foods that are served in the streets of Kashi. In Varanasi, Makhan Malaiyyo, also known as Nimish, is a well-liked wintertime street dessert. Malaiyyo, a dish inspired by Persian cooking, is made by slowly churning milk to get a creamy consistency.

Next, cardamom and saffron are added to the milk foam, and almonds and pistachios are sprinkled on top. Perfectly sweet and incredibly light, it is served in kulhad or Purvas. One can only discover Malayiyyo, a well-kept secret of Varanasi when visiting this eternal city.

Conclusion

Several dynasties have ruled over Varanasi, including the Gupta, Mauryan, Mughal, and British. All in all, Varanasi can be described as a celestial paradise. You'll feel your body, mind, and soul refreshed after visiting this enticing location. See for yourself why Varanasi is aptly named the "Spiritual Capital of India" by visiting the city.

Written By- Archi Goldi

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