Essay – Varanasi
Varanasi Essay: Also known as the oldest city in the world, the prominence of Varanasi in Hindu mythology is well-detailed. It is the city of temples, art, culture, tradition, religion, and education to name a few. It is also known as Kashi which is referred to as older than history, older than ever the legend, older than tradition and it looks twice as old as it is put all together, by the English author Mark Twain. The pious land of Varanasi has been the pilgrimage spot for many Hindus since the ages. Hindus held a firm belief that dying in the land of the Varanasi would help one to achieve salvation. It is located in the middle Ganges valley in the South Eastern part of Uttar Pradesh.
Discussion
Besides being a pious land, Varanasi has been a famous centre of learning for ages. It is popularly known as the Sarva Vidya Ki Rajdhani which means the capital of knowledge. People across the world have been visiting this place for learning Sanskrit, Astrology, Philosophy, Modern Sciences and Social science. Back in 1791, the first educational institution was established in this place to train the servants of the English East India Company. Annie Besant founded the Central Hindu School in the last quarter of the 19th century to impart modern education to students. Erstwhile Central Hindu School is now known as the prestigious Banaras Hindu University occupies a prestigious position among the top universities in the world.
Vaishnavism and Shaivism coexist in Varanasi in a harmonious manner. The Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat draws the attention of many pilgrims all across the world.
Ayurveda is even believed to have originated in Varanasi and it is believed to be the basis of all the modern medical sciences such as Calculus operations, cataracts and plastic surgery. The preceptor of Ayurveda, Maharishi Patanjali was also associated with Varanasi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Aysuhman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission in the Parliamentary constituency of Varanasi. The objective of this mission was to fill the void in the health infrastructure.
Varanasi also serves as the hub of cultural activities. The exponents of dance and music are believed to have originated from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the internationally famous Sitar Maestro and Ustad Bismillah Khan the famous shehnai player spend a major part of their lives in the pious city. Even the famous poets Tulsi Das and Prem Chand also belong from this city.
Banarasi sarees are immensely popular for their special characteristics such as the Mughal-inspired elements comprising the foliate and the floral motifs. No tourist has left the city without trying the Benarasi pan which bears the symbol of love, hospitality and happiness. Since times immemorial, the people of Varanasi have been serving their guest paan as a part of their greeting.
Conclusion
To conclude it can be said that Varanasi has been the hub of learning, medicine, trade, commerce art and cultural activities. Various proponents of song, literature and music have originated from this place. In recent years, Varanasi witnessed the highest number of tourists for being the most famous place in terms of food, culture, tourist spots, music, art and festivals.
FAQs
Q1. What is the central Hindu school known as?
Ans: The central Hindu school is known as Banaras Hindu University.
Q2. Name the two poets who belong to Varanasi.
Ans: Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, the eminent poets belong to Varanasi.
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