2017-07-27 Thu

The amalgamation of cultures is beautifully interwoven in the Indian peninsula but these blends also have its centre points, where we can see the true aspect of this diverse culture. The city of Varanasi is one of such centres which gave exposure to these alluring combinations of traditions.

Varanasi was called Banaras before 1956. This name was originated from the combine names of River Varana and Asi. But before this change, Varanasi was also known by a name called Kashi, the name of the Kingdoms capital in 500 BC.

This city is the centre of Shiva worship has seen the development of human civilisation since the ancient time. It is also the most visited pilgrimage destination in India and that's why it is considered the cultural and religious capital of India.

Varanasi is the home for one of the Jyotirlinga and also the Shakti-pith. Built on the banks of holy Ganga this city was an attraction to the scholar and philosophers throughout the ages. This city has been a favoured hermitage site for many of India's sage like Gautama Buddha, Mahavira, Kabir, Tulsi Das, Shankaracharya, Patanjali and etc.

This city consists 100 bathing and burning Ghats of which Manikarnika ghat is the most sacred. This city also serves as the commercial centre of Utter Pradesh due to the production of Banarasi Silk Sarees and brocades.

The colour of this City may overwhelm a visitor but the wisdom of spirituality and peacefulness lies underneath. Varanasi also has the taste of historical phases that make this city more enchanting.

To celebrate this alluring city of diverse culture India post has issued a commemorative stamp in 2016. P.S: The word “Kashi” means ‘Where the Supreme light Shines'.