Abode of Lord Shiva:
Kashi is primarily known as the city of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. It's believed that Shiva himself founded the city and resides there. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, housing one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Shiva.
Moksha (Liberation):
Perhaps the most significant belief associated with Kashi is the promise of moksha for those who die within its sacred precincts. It's believed that Lord Shiva himself whispers the Taraka Mantra (salvation mantra) into the ears of those who breathe their last here, guiding them to liberation.
Sacred Ganges River:
In Hinduism, the Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, is a goddess that flows through Varanasi. A holy bath in its waters is thought to purify the soul and atone for sins. The significance of the river is underscored by the daily rites, prayers, and cremations that take place along the ghats.
Sapta Puri:
Kashi is one of the seven Sapta Puri (holy cities) in Hinduism, which are believed to grant liberation.
One of the Oldest Living Cities:
According to Mark Twain, "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together." Dating back more than 3,000 years, it is regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in the world, a claim that is supported by historical chronicles and archaeological evidence. Its spiritual strength and mystique are enhanced by its uninterrupted ancestry.
Center of Learning and Knowledge:
Kashi has been a center of learning, philosophy, and knowledge for thousands of years. Sanskrit, the Vedas, astrology, Ayurveda, yoga, and several schools of Hindu philosophy have all been studied there. Here have resided and taught renowned intellectuals, philosophers, saints, and poets such as Ravidas, Kabir, and Tulsidas (author of the Ramcharitmanas).
Art and Culture:
Indian traditional dance and music, especially the Banaras Gharana form, have flourished largely in Varanasi. It has a long and illustrious history of weaving silk, particularly the beautiful Banarasi sarees.
Buddhism:
Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment at Sarnath, which is only ten kilometers away. Because of this, Varanasi (Kashi) is an important location for Buddhists all over the world.
Jainism:
Because it is thought to be the birthplace of four Jain Tirthankaras, including Parsvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara, Kashi is also a major Jains' pilgrimage site.
Ghats and Rituals:
Seeing thousands of pilgrims bathe in the Ganges at the many ghats (steps), perform various rites, and give prayers is a potent and engrossing cultural experience. Dashashwamedh Ghat's evening Ganga Aarti is a captivating display of fire and devotion.
Labyrinthine Lanes (Galis):
Ancient temples, busy marketplaces, traditional residences, and a noticeable spiritual presence are all part of the old city's sensory overload when you explore its twisting, tiny streets.
Life and Death:
With open cremation rituals held at ghats like Manikarnika, Kashi in a unique way combines life and death, highlighting the Hindu concept of impermanence and liberation.