Varanasi

 

Varanasi, also known as Benaras, stands as one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, nestled on the sacred banks of the Ganges River, drawing pilgrims for centuries. Renowned author Mark Twain, who journeyed through India in the late 19th century, hailed Varanasi as “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend.”

 

Esteemed as the dwelling place of Lord Shiva, Varanasi ranks among the seven holiest cities in India. Centuries of history, art, and tradition have woven vibrant tapestries into Varanasi's essence, notably showcased along its iconic ghats (stepped riverbanks). A haven for seekers of spirituality and divine grace, Varanasi's ghats epitomize its spiritual fervor. From the renowned Ganga Aarti (fire ritual) to solemn cremation ceremonies, these ghats serve as the stage for age-old rituals that endure to this day.

 

Legend has it that Lord Shiva channeled the celestial Ganga onto Earth, endowing the river with divine sanctity. Thousands journey from across the nation to bathe in its purifying waters, believing it absolves sins, while cremation along its banks is thought to lead souls to moksha (salvation). For many, embarking on the sacred Kashi Yatra (pilgrimage to Kashi, Varanasi's former name) stands as a pivotal rite of passage in their lifetime.

 

In recent years, Varanasi has evolved into a beacon of philosophy, yoga, Ayurveda, and astrology, embracing ancient wisdom to enrich the lives of its inhabitants and visitors alike.

 

Sarnath

 

Sarnath, situated a mere 10 km from Varanasi, stands as one of the most esteemed Buddhist pilgrimage sites globally. It is here, it is believed, that Lord Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon after attaining enlightenment, an event sanctified as the Maha Dharma Chakra Pravartan Sutra. Sarnath boasts several ancient structures, including the Dhamekh Stupa, marking the very spot of Buddha's discourse, and the Chaukhandi Stupa, where he encountered his first five disciples.

 

The Dhamekh Stupa, constructed of solid brick in a cylindrical form, towers at 43.6 meters high with a diameter of 28 meters. Founded by Ashoka in 249 BCE and later rebuilt in the 5th century, it is also referred to as the Dharma Chakra Stupa. The Chaukhandi Stupa, positioned 13 km from Varanasi, was fashioned as an octagonal tower between the 4th and 6th centuries during the Gupta era.

 

A notable attraction in Sarnath is the metallic pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka in 272-273 BC, signifying the inception of the Buddhist Sangha. This towering pillar, standing at 50 meters, features atop it the emblematic symbol of four lions, known as the Lion Capital, which also serves as the emblem of the Republic of India. Beneath the lions, four additional animals – a bull, lion, elephant, and horse – symbolize the various phases of Lord Buddha's life.

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Prayagraj

 

Nestled at the sacred sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers converge, lies the city of Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, in Uttar Pradesh. Renowned as a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus, it is one of the four holy cities that host the Kumbh Mela, perhaps the largest human gathering globally. Prayagraj beckons devotees, ascetics, tourists, and photographers worldwide. The city experiences an influx of millions during the Maha Kumbh, occurring every 12 years, and the Kumbh, held every six years.

 

Legend has it that Lord Brahma selected a plot for the sacred Prakrishta Yajna, a fire ritual. This hallowed ground was where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers intermingled, earning the city the divine appellation of Teerthraj or Prayag, blessed by celestial beings.

 

Ayodhya

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Spread along the tranquil banks of the Saryu River, Ayodhya, nestled in Uttar Pradesh, stands as one of Hinduism's most sacred cities, drawing thousands of pilgrims year-round. Celebrated as the birthplace of Lord Rama, as chronicled in the Hindu epic Ramayana, the city is adorned with temples, some intricately linked to the river's ghats (stepped banks).

 

Ayodhya radiates unparalleled splendor during Deepotsav, a grand celebration on Diwali, where countless earthen lamps illuminate the Saryu, creating a captivating spectacle. The city truly comes alive during these festivities, with temples aglow and streets resonating with jubilant fervor.

 

Moreover, Ayodhya holds significance as the birthplace of four Jain tirthankars (saints), honored through various shrines scattered across the city and its outskirts. Situated approximately 135 km from Lucknow, Ayodhya, once the capital of the Surya dynasty and known as Kaushaldesa in antiquity, offers a glimpse into its rich heritage.

 

Its twin city, Faizabad, established by Sadat Khan, the nawab of Awadh, boasts enchanting forts, mausoleums, and mosques, presenting a compelling narrative of history waiting to be explored.

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