In the age of mega cities and metropolitan wonders, Banaras stands tall as a subtle but exceedingly charming holy hub. Here’s a city, a fairytale land, consecrated to God and everything spiritual. The feeble light from the Ghats merges with the tranquility of the holy Ganges. Somewhere far away, religious chants and whole-hearted pleadings echo with reverberating temple bells. Tourists flock up to contribute their share of faith as a saint crowds himself with wisps of holy smoke. Oh Banaras, you beauty!
Once you get used to the cows, the incense sticks, and the chaotic din shuffling and reshuffling, Banaras is easy to absorb as a traveler. Two things zoom past you while you’re in Banaras. One is the virgin spirituality and the other is the pulsating history. For a checklist, you have several options that you can choose from. You can knit memories by the Ganges; visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple; spend time at the Ghats; and rendezvous with history and culture at various sites spread across the holy land.
But more than anything else, it is the occasional stroll and walk-through which will get you closer to Banaras. It’s the little things which will help you make the most of your time in Banaras. For example, the night puja ceremony is an important event in Banaras. The Main Ghat hosts the ceremony which involves Brahmins burning incense and doing fire motions. Then there are alleys and streets which are iconic to the city. Don’t be surprised if a cow barges in from somewhere or monkeys crowd you, it's part and parcel of the experience. A serene boat ride is another way of getting closer to Banaras.
They say a very crucial part of Banaras lies in its people and their daily life. World renowned photographers make it a point to visit Banaras almost every year. They enter the city with cameras loaded with empty memory cards and leave with memories, experiences, and dazzling sights. The daily life of the people of Banaras can keep you busy for more than a while. Nothing really ‘sums up’ Banaras, to be honest. The encounter always feels fresh and yet a little recognizable. Out of all the holy hubs spread across India, the charm that Banaras packs is unique and sublime.
(Pic Credits: Ayandrali Dutta)
