Fatehpur Sikri is the historical city constructed by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the beginning of 1570 in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It served as the empire’s capital from 1571 until 1585, when it was abandoned. Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the surviving palace and mosque are a tourist attraction.
It has a versatile and prolific Indo-Muslim composite style of Architecture and resembles a fusion of the composite cultures of indigenous and foreign origins. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs, derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture.

History

Akbar shifted his court and residence from Agra to Sikri for a period of 13 years, from 1572 to 1585. The Sufi Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti had blessed him with a son who was named Salim in 1569. After the death of his two sons, the Sufi saint predicted that Akbar would have another son. Akbar’s son was named Salim to honour the saint and would later rule the empire as Emperor Jahangir.

To honour the saint, Akbar created this great city with magnificent palaces and institutions and gave it the name of Fatehabad, which later came to be known as “Fatehpur Sikri”. Fateh is a word of Arabic origin and means “victory”.

Fatehpur Sikri shared its imperial duties as a capital city with Agra, where a bulk of the arsenal, treasure hoards, and other reserves were kept at its Red Fort for security. During a crisis, the court, harem, and treasury could be removed to Agra, only 26 miles away, less than a day’s march.

It is at Fatehpur Sikri that the legends of Akbar and his famed courtiers, the nine jewels or Navaratnas, were born. Innovations in land revenue, coinage, military organisation, and provincial administration emerged during the Fatehpur Sikri years. Fatehpur Sikri was the first planned city of the Mughals. Its efficient drainage system and water-supply system suggest a very intelligent town-planning by Akbar.

Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned in 1585 and the capital moved to Lahore. The reasons for this remain obscure; it is possible that water sources dried up or that Akbar needed to be closer to invading Persian and Afghan armies.

Important buildings & Places To Visit

The buildings of Fatehpur Sikri show a synthesis of various regional schools of architectural craftsmanship such as Gujarati and Bengali. This was because indigenous craftsmen from various regions were used for the construction of the buildings. Influences from Hindu and Jain architecture are seen hand in hand with Islamic elements.

Jama Masjid or the Friday Mosque: It is notable for its Hindu and Persian elements of design. It is also known as the Dargah Mosque and is said to be a copy of the main mosque at Mecca. The tomb of Salim Chisti called “Salim Chisti Ka Mazar” was built within the grounds of Jama Mosque.

Buland Darwaza – the ‘Gate of Magnificence’: It is a 54 m high main entrance gate to the Jama Masjid. It is a stupendous piece of architecture from the outside and gradually makes a transition to a human scale in the inside. It was erected in 1602 AD to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Deccan. It is the highest and grandest gateway in India and ranks among the biggest in the world. A Koranic Inscription upon it says – “The world is a bridge, pass over it but built no house upon it. He who hopes for an hour, hopes for Eternity, for the world is but an hour”.

Tomb of Shaikh Salim Chisti: It was built in 1570 and is believed by many seekers to fulfil their wishes. Its Carved Marble Lattice Screens (Jalis) are a noticeable feature.
Palace of Jodha Bai: It was the principal harem wing for the Hindu wives of Akbar. The mother of Salim (Emperor Jahangir) Jodha Bai presided imperiously from her spacious purdah (screened salon). The architecture is a blend of styles with Hindu columns and Muslim cupolas.

Birbal Bhawan: This palace belonged to Raja Birbal, Akbar’s brilliant prime minister. He was one of the “Nine Jewels of Akbar’s court”. The building combines Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture.

Karawan Serai and Hiran Minar: The Karawan Sarai was a large courtyard used by visiting merchants. The Hiran or Deer Minar has been erected over the grave of Akbar’s favourite elephant.

Diwan-i-Aam – Hall of Public Audience: a building typology found in many Mughal cities where the ruler meets the general public. It is designed for large public gatherings.

Diwan-i-Khas – Hall of Private Audience: famous for its central pillar with thirty-six vaulted brackets supporting a circular platform for Akbar. It is here that Akbar had representatives of different religions discuss their faiths. It is Fatehpur Sikri’s architectural gem and unique for its interior decoration.

Panch Mahal: A five-storied palatial structure and an architectural marvel. The bottom floor has 176 intricately carved columns. It was Akbar’s personal citadel of pleasure, where he would spend his evenings with the ladies of the harem.

Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour at its height. Indeed, its numerous palaces, halls, and masjids satisfy his creative and aesthetic impulses, typical of Mughals. Though the city is in ruins, it is a place to visit if one comes to Agra. The sunset over the ruins is a sight to cherish.
Fatehpur Sikri is regarded as Emperor Akbar’s crowning architectural legacy. It is the best example of the culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture. It is one of the greatest accomplishments of Mughal architecture, some say it’s only surpassed in beauty by the Taj Mahal.

“If dreams were made out of stone, it would be Hampi”

Hampi the erstwhile capital of Vijayanagara kingdom (14th century empire) in India is full of delightful surprises. It is Situated on the banks of the river tungabhadra in karnataka.

Hampi is known for its architecture and art wonders. It is a world famous heritage tourism destination and one of the 16 UNESCO recognised World Heritage Sites in India.
The genesis of the place known today as Hampi dates back to the age of the Hindu epic Ramayana when it was the site of Kishkinda, a monkey kingdom. It was the kingdom of Bali, Sugriva’s brother.
Hampi is time travel. It offers to the tourist a reminder of the greatest land in the whole world. Every rock, every path and every monument at Hampi speak the same language; a language of glory and beauty.
Vijaynagar
Vijaynagar empire was the capital of the largest empire in the post-mogul India and covered many states. It stretched over at least 3 states – Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. It also became renowned for re-establishment of Indian culture, its support for music, art and literature. With the prime purpose of caring for the people and their welfare, this empire stretched physically covering Karnataka, Andhra and Maharashtra and became a by-word for golden rule.
“A Forgotten Empire” by Robert Sewell is an interesting book which describes the rise and fall of Vijayanagar empire. It seems at one point of time, diamonds were sold on the streets of this empire.
The Moghul Invaders destroyed a large part of Vijaynagar in 1565. It is in ruins today, but this capital city once boasted riches that were known far beyond the shores of India.

Hampi overview

Set amidst an awesome boulder-strewn landscape along the banks of the Tungabhadra river 12km away from the sleepy town of Hospet in Bellary district, Hampi was the magnificent capital of the mighty Vijayanagar kingdom. Hampi is situated at 74 kms from the city Bellary and 13 km from Hospet city in Karnataka.

Hampi formed one of the cores of the capital of the Vijayanagara empire from 1336 to 1565. Hampi was chosen because of its strategic location, bounded by the torrential Tungabhadra river on one side and surrounded by defensible hills on the other three sides.
The ruins of Hampi lie scattered in about 26 sq. km area. The area is simply stunning and you will be in awe of the millions of boulders surrounding the area. However, within this arid landscape lies a little oasis with lush palm, banana and mango trees nestled near the river.
The site is of great importance in terms of architecture and historical significance. The demography is abundant with large stones which have been utilized to make larger than life statues of Hindu deities. One can see a structure of historic importance every quarter of a mile.
The name is derived from Pampa, which is the old name of the Riverton whose banks the city is built. The name “Hampi” is an anglicized version of the Kannada Hampe (derived from Pampa). Over the years, it has also been referred to as Vijayanagara and Virupakshapura

Sites of Interest

Hampi is a visual delight, especially due to its stark contrast from most other places. Rocks are all you see whichever direction you look at. Vegetation is visible in the wet months; but again it never dominates the landscape. It is an ideal spot for people who are interested in history and/or nature.
There are many sites of interest in and around Hampi. The must-visits are Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Monolith Bull, Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Hemakuta Hill temples, Big Shivlinga, Vithala Temple (the famous Stone Chariot is located here), Hazara Rama Temple, Royal Enclosures, Queen’s Bath, Zanana Enclosure (which also houses the Lotus Mahal), Elephant Stables, Achyut Raya temple, Statue of Ugra Narsimha, Virupaksha Temple, Mahanavmi Dibba, the Stepped Bath and the Matanga Hill (from where one can see the most beautiful sun set ever).
The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tell a tale of men infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction.

Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha Temple rises majestically at the western end of the famous Hampi Bazaar. The temple has a 120 feet tall tower on its eastern entrance.
It is also known as the Pampapathi temple, it is a Shiva temple situated in the Hampi Bazaar. It predates the founding of the Vijayanagar empire. The temple has a 160-foot (49 m) high tower at its entrance. The temple contains the shrines of Shiva, Pampa and Bhuvaneswari.
The Hampi Bazaar,

35 yards wide and nearly 800 yards long was known to be a “very beautiful street with very beautiful houses”.
Vithala Temple Complex
 The most splendid monument of Hampi is undoubtedly the Vithala Temple Complex with its 56 musical pillars. To the east of the hall is the famous Stone Chariot with stone wheels that actually revolve.
House of Victory
It was built when Krishnadeva Raya came back from his victorious expedition against the King of Orissa. The kings of Vijayanagar used to sit on a grand throne in the House of Victory and witness the nine-day Dushara festival.
King’s Balance

Hampi is also full of surprises: like the King’s Balance where kings were weighed against grain, gold or money which was then distributed to the poor, the Queen’s Bath, a swimming pool, 50 ft. long and 6 ft. deep, with its arched corridors, projecting balconies and lotus-shaped fountains that once sprouted perfumed water.

Local Festivals:
The Vijayanagar Festival organized by the Government of Karnataka in November-December recreates the grandeur of the bygone era.
Best time to visit:

 October to March. You could use Hospet as your base to visit Hampi. The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (IR station code : HPT), 13 km away. The nearest airport is at Bellary.

Located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India; the famous Ajanta and Ellora are the world heritage sites famous for the cave shrines that are cut out of rock, all by hand. Every structure of this cave site has been cut out of solid rock. They are the greatest specimens of rock-cut architecture and Buddhist culture.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are one of the most well known popular tourist attractions in India and are easily accessible from various parts of the country. They are situated roughly 300 kilometers northeast of Mumbai (Bombay). They are some of the most astounding examples of cave architecture in the world.

Ajanta has 29 caves and Ellora has 34 caves. They remained shrouded in mystery for over a millennium, till John Smith, a British Army Officer, accidentally rediscovered them while on a hunting expedition. These caves aren’t natural caves, but they have been built by generations of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain Monks who lived and worshipped in the caves, and slowly carved out elaborate pillars, statues and meditation rooms.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are listed among the World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. This has been done to preserve their artistic legacy, so that they can continue to inspire the lives of generations to come and enrich them deeply.

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta is 100 kms from Aurangabad and the caves were discovered in 1819. They depict “Buddhist religious art” and “universal pictorial art” and are known all over the world for their unique style. They portray very beautifully the story of Buddhism, spanning from a period from 200 BC to 650 AD.

The 29 Ajanta caves were used as the shelter of the Buddhist monks who were teachers in various Buddhist rituals. They performed rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas and these were the nerve-centers of the Buddhist cultural movement.

An amazing feature is that the Buddhist monks carved out impressive figures that adorn the walls of these structures, using simple tools like hammer and chisel. They portray tales of the several incarnations of the Buddha and many stories from the Jatakas.

Ellora Caves

The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill. They are just 30 Kms from the main city of Aurangabad. Ellora Caves are devoted to Buddhist, Jain and Hindu faiths; they have an amazing wealth of sculpture. They were carved during the 350 AD to 700 AD period. 

Unlike the Ajanta caves, the Ellora Cave temples are home to various monuments, carvings and sculptures relating to Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. They consist of magnificent sculptures and monuments dedicated to Lord Buddha, Lord Vishwakarma, dwarfs, dancing girls, yakshas and musicians.

The Ellora Caves are the finest specimens of cave-temple architecture. The 17 caves in the centre are dedicated to Hinduism, the 12 caves to the south are Buddhist and 5 caves to the north are Jain. The sculptures accurately convey the grace, nobility and serenity inherent in the Buddha.

Although all the caves in Ellora are marvelous architectural feats, the Kailash Cave Temple is the most famous temple which consists of magnificent sculptures of Lord Shiva and can be called as the jewel in the crown.

It is the largest monolithic structure in the world and has been carved totally from a single rock. It represents Mt. Kailasa, the home of the god Shiva in the Himalayas. It is believed to have taken 7,000 laborers 150 years to complete the project. It shows Man’s determination when his mind, heart and hands work in unison towards the fulfillment of a supreme ideal.

Visiting Ajanta and Ellora

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are one of India’s greatest architectural treasures. They attract thousands of visitors and tourists annually. The sites are open daily from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., with guides available for hire. Entry is free to all caves at Ellora except the Kailasa Temple.

Both Ajanta and Ellora caves are open for public viewing throughout week with exception of weekly holiday of Monday for Ajanta and Tuesday for Ellora. Both caves are open on national holidays. 

Qutab Minar (Urdu: قطب منار) is the world’s tallest brick minaret. Soaring over 70 metres into the hazy sky, it is one of the country’s most important examples of Indo-Islamic architecture, with verses from the Quran carved into its red sandstone exterior.

History

The meaning of the word Qutab Minar is axis minaret. Considered to be the tallest tower of India, the history of Qutab Minar is quite interesting as its height. It is the highest stone tower in India and is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory.

Built by Qutabuddin Aibak; it was constructed in early 12th century and was completed by Firoz Shah Tughluq in 1368. Qutab-ud-din Aibak was the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. He commenced the construction of the Qutab Minar in 1200 AD, but could only finish the basement.
Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. The high standing tower has shafts and balconies and the walls are adorned with inscribed verses from Quran.

Tower

The Qutab Minar was built on the ruins of Lal Kot, the Red Citadel in the city of Dhillika, the capital of the Tomar and Chauhana Rajputs, the last Hindu rulers of Delhi. There are many other remarkable buildings and structures in the Qutab Minar complex, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, the first mosque built in India.

You can even see an inscription over there that expounds that the original mosque was built on the foundations of a Hindu temple and the materials obtained by demolishing 27 idolatrous temples!

Architecture

The Qutab Minar is not only an important tourist spot in Delhi, it is also an excellent example of early Islamic architecture in India. The 238 feet Qutab Minar is 47 feet at the base and tapers to nine feet at the apex. The architectural wonder is surrounded by a lush green manicured garden.

The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony. The first three storeys of the tower are made of red sandstone by Qutabuddin Aibak and Iltutmish and the last two storeys are made of marble by Firoz Shah Tughluq.
Qutab Minar is a red sandstone monument. At the base of Qutab Minar is an iron pillar that inexplicitly stays rust-free for the past 2000 years! The stark differences in architecture of different periods and different dynasties can be noticed in Qutab Minar. It is an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder of ancient India. It bears intricate carvings and cantos from the Holy Koran. The decoration and carvings of Qutab Minar is basically Islamic but somewhat hybrid style was visible in the later additions of Firoz Shah.
The tower was built in three stages. The staircase inside the tower to the balconies has been closed following an accident in early 1980’s when a party of school girls panicked when the lights failed and a stampede led to a number of deaths.
Heritage

The Qutab Minar is a World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi. The Qutab Minar is identified with Delhi, as the Leaning Tower is associated with the city of Pisa or the Eiffel Tower with Paris. In many ways, the Qutab Minar, the first monument of Muslim rule in India, heralded the beginning of a new style of art and architecture that came to be known as the Indo-Islamic style.

India, the country, where culture echoes, traditions speak and diversity delights is a land of magnificent monuments and where Taj Mahal, is only one of the historical wonders. Situated in the city of Agra in India, on the banks of the river Yamuna, the Taj is enclosed in a garden amongst fountains and ornamental trees.
Taj Mahal is a monument that depicts one of the most marvelous architectures of the ancient world. It is India’s Pride and it has made it to the Seven Wonders of the World.

Home of Taj Mahal: Agra

Situated in the city of Agra in India, on the banks of the river Yamuna, the Taj is enclosed in a garden amongst fountains and ornamental trees. Agra is situated about 200 km south of New Delhi, was the Capital of the Mughals (Moguls) – the Muslim Emperors who ruled Northern India between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Agra is well connected by air, rail and road. It is an ancient centre of Shiva worship. Agra is globally renowned as the city of the Taj Mahal, a monument of love and imagination that represents India to the world.

Agra was from 1526 to 1658 the capital of the Mughal emperors – the Muslim rulers of India, who left a splendid architectural heritage. It is home to the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India, of which the Taj is simply the most famous.

Taj Mahal: An Epitome of Love

The very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance leaves one mesmerized. It is truly a spectacular symbol of love, art and craftsmanship combined.
Shah Jahan was the fourth Mogul emperor of India. He ordered the Taj Mahal built in memory of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. She was the second wife of Shah Jahan. Inflated through the ages into an almost impossibly beautiful, virtuous and brave woman, despite a fairly scanty historical record, Mumtaz Mahal accompanied him to war, and bore him 14 children, the last birth killing her at the age of 39.

When Mumtaz Mahal was still alive, she extracted four promises from the emperor – first, that he build the Taj; second, that he should marry again; third, that he be kind to their children; and fourth, that he visit the tomb on her death anniversary.
In 1631, when Mumtaz Mahal died in childbirth, Shah Jahan brought to Agra the most skilled craftsmen from all Asia and even Europe, to build the white marble mausoleum that is the Taj Mahal.

Shah Jahan had sought perfect symmetry in the Taj, and placed the tomb of Mumtaz (actually a marble cenotaph; her body is buried below) squarely at the center, forming a perfect sightline out the entrance.

The body of Mumtaz Mahal was ceremoniously interred into the tomb. The name Taj Mahal is derived from her nick-name Mumtaz Mahal: pearl or crown of the palace.

Many people believe that Shah Jahan had planned to build another Taj Mahal in black marble, which was to be his own tomb on the opposite bank of the River Yamuna and connect the two by a bridge.

Emperor Shah Jahan himself described the Taj in these words:

Should guilty seek asylum here,
Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin.
Should a sinner make his way to this mansion,
All his past sins are to be washed away.
The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs;
And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.
In this world this edifice has been made;
To display thereby the creator’s glory.
The Taj Mahal still continues to enamor visitors with its charismatic architecture and narrates the mystical tale of eternal love. It is recognized worldwide as a symbol of eternal love.

Taj Mahal: The Building
Building the mausoleum took 21 years and 20,000 workers. Without doubt, The Taj Mahal ranks as amongst the most perfect buildings in the world, flawlessly proportionate, built entirely out of marble. The building itself is 186 feet square.
The term ‘Mahal’ has never been used for a building in any of the Muslim countries, from Afghanistan to Algeria. Had the Taj been an Islamic building it should have faced the west.
The Taj Mahal was constructed using materials from all over India and Asia. Over 1,000 elephants were used to transport building materials during the construction. The translucent white marble was brought from Rajasthan, the jasper from Punjab, jade and crystal from China. The turquoise was from Tibet and the Lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, while the sapphire came from Sri Lanka and the carnelian from Arabia. In all, twenty eight types of precious and semi-precious stones were inlaid into the white marble.

The finest of skilled artisans were brought in to inlay the white marble edifice with precious stones and to conjure filigreed marble screens around the cenotaphs of the emperor and his beloved queen. It is believed that the name “Taj Mahal” was derived from the name of Shah Jahan wife Mumtaz Mahal and means “Crown Palace”.

The Taj is a tribute to the beauty of a woman and the enduring and eternal love. The Taj Mahal reveals its subtle beauty when you view it without being in a hurry. The rectangular base symbolizes the different sides from which to view a beautiful woman.
The main gate symbolizes the veil to a woman’s face, which should be lifted delicately, without haste and very gently on the wedding night. It is an aspect of the Indian Tradition, where the veil is lifted gently to reveal the beauty of the bride.

Taj Mahal: The Heritage
The almost supernatural beauty of the Taj Mahal and its grounds transcends culture and history, and speaks with a voice of its own to visitors from all over the world of feelings that are common to all humanity. In 1983, The Taj Mahal was given recognition as a UNESCO World heritage site and hence was universally acknowledged as one of the best heritage sites throughout the world. It is one of the wonders of the world and the supreme example of Mughal architecture in India.

Estimates of the cost of the construction of Taj Mahal vary due to difficulties in estimating construction costs across time. The total cost of construction has been estimated to be about 32 million Rupees at that time which now runs into trillions of Dollars if converted to present currency rates!

The Taj Mahal attracts from 2 to 4 million visitors annually, with more than 200,000 from overseas. Most tourists visit in the cooler months of October, November and February. Polluting traffic is not allowed near the complex and tourists must either walk from parking lots or catch an electric bus.

The grounds are open from 6 am to 7 pm weekdays, except for Friday when the complex is open for prayers at the mosque between 12 noon and 2 pm. The complex is open for night viewing on the day of the full moon and two days before and after, excluding Fridays and the month of Ramzan. For security reasons only five items – water in transparent bottles, small video cameras, still cameras, mobile phones and small ladies’ purses – are allowed inside the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal: The Magnificent Architecture

The Taj Mahal is generally considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements of Persian, Turkish, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. It incorporates and expands on many design traditions, particularly Hindu, Persian and earlier Mughal architecture.

Although Islamic architecture is difficult to define collectively, the Taj Mahal seems to represent its essence and strongest characteristic — the ability of the Islamic religion and its leaders to exploit into foreign regions and mould the best features of that place with its own to create unique works of architecture.
In a country that may be one of the most intriguing travel destinations on the planet, the Taj Mahal is the one site no tourist visiting India can miss. The Taj Mahal is truly a spectacular symbol of love, art and craftsmanship combined.

The temples of Khajuraho are India’s unique gift to the world. They express love in its most unique form. Khajuraho Temples are the most graphic, erotic and sensuous Indian sculptures, the world has ever known.  They are famous for their erotic carvings.  Khajuraho Temples are standing testimonials of the glorious past of India.
History

The Khajuraho temples were built between 950 and 1050 AD in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. They were built during the Chandela dynasty of Central India (These rulers claimed descent from the moon, hence the name Chand-ela). After the decline of the Chandela dynasty in 13th century, the temples were left under the cover of dense date palm trees for many years, which gave the city of Khajuraho its name, Khajur in Hindi means a date.

In 1838, a British army engineer, Captain T.S. Burt rediscovered them. It had at least eighty-five temples, out of which twenty-two exist today.

Something interesting regarding Khajuraho Temples is how its name came into existence. Khajuraho derives its name from the tree khajur (date palm), which can be found in abundance in that area.

Location:

Khajuraho temples are situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh in the Chhatarpur district. They are famous all over the world for their spectacular architecture and bold artistic statement. They are quite different in architectural style and are the one of the most captivating temples in India.

Khajuraho temples are grouped into three categories namely Eastern group, Western group and Southern group.
Some of the important temples to visit at Khajuraho include the Lakshmi and Varaha temples, Kandariya Mahadev, Devi Jagdamba, Vishvanath Temple, Chausath Yogini and so on.

Western Group of Temples:

These are the largest and the richest temples in Khajuraho:

Lakhmana Temple – It is one of the oldest and finest temples in this place. The unique aspect of this temple is the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with Lakshmi ( Lord Vishnu’s consort).

Devi Jagdamba Temple – This temple has some of the finest sculptures of Khajuraho. It is dedicated to the Goddess (devi). The Devi Jagdamba temple is known for its erotic sculptures and houses Khajuraho’s most talked-about image, the mithuna (the sensuously carved figures of amorous couples). It has three bands of sculptures, of which the third and uppermost of these houses some of the most erotic sculptures.

Chaunsat Yogini – It is the oldest surviving shrine out of the three granite temples dedicated to Godess Kali. It is the only granite temple in the Khajuraho temples group.

Chitragupta temple – It is dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and faces eastwards to the rising sun.

Eastern Group of Temples –

This group consists mainly of Jain and Hindu temples.

Parshvanath Temple – It is the largest and the finest temple in this group. An amazing feature of this temple is the exquisite carvings that depict the timeless beauty of a women. The sculptures on the northern outer wall are something that you should not miss.

Adinath Temple – It is dedicated to the Jain Saint, Adinath. It consists of a lot of sculpted figures.
Brahma Temple – It is one of the oldest temples of Khajuraho and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is made entirely in granite and sandstone.
The Hanuman temple, Ghantai temple, Vamana temple and Javari temple are some other outstanding temples in Khajuraho that have excellent architecture.

Southern Group of Temples –

Dulhadev Temple – Duladeo temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It lies south to the Ghantai temple and is the last temple of Khajuraho. It enshrines a Shivalingam and the most notable feature of this temple is the apsara and ornamented figures.

Chattarbhuj Temple or the Jatkari Temple – It was built in 1100 A.D., and it is well known for its architecture. It is the only temple that is devoid of any erotic sculpture. An outstanding feature of this temple is the massive 9 feet Vishnu Idol that has been intricately carved.

Spectacular Khajuraho Temples:
Khajuraho Temples are particularly known for their erotic sculptures that undoubtedly fan the flames of physical desires of an individual. Khajuraho Temples are an excellent example of outstanding human creativity in the form of sculptures. Unlike other temples Khajuraho temples are said to have a theme (women), which comes in front while going through the temples.  The Khajuraho Temples are famous for their sensuous depiction of the Art of Love making. Candid Eroticism and delicate sensuality have found their ultimate heights in the Khajuraho temples.

Dance Festival:
Khajuraho festival is a 7 day festival celebrated with fervour and joy, during the pleasant Hindu spring month of Phalguna (spring), corresponding with the months of February/March. There are many celebrations that involve Indian Classical dance and music. These are believed to have originated in the Hindu temples. In the month of march, visitors are drawn to a dance festival which attracts some of the best and outstanding classical dancers of India.

Trip Schedule:

Visiting Khajuraho is an exciting experience. The temples can be explored in one full day. If you happen to be here in the month of March then the dance festival will be an added bonanza in your itinerary.

Summer: Summer 47 Deg. C. 21 Deg. C.
Winter: Winter 32 Deg. C. 4 Deg. C.
Rainfall: 114 cm. July-September
Best Season: October to March.

Travel Connectivity:
Khajuraho is easily accessible through air, rail and road.
» By Air: Regular services link Khajuraho with Delhi, Agra, and Varanasi.
» By Rail: The nearest railheads are Harpalpur (94 Km) and Mahoba (61 Km). Jhansi (172 Km) is a convenient railhead for those traveling from Delhi and Chennai; Satna (117 Km), on the Mumbai-Allahabad line of the Central Railway for those coming from Mumbai, Kolkata and Varanasi.
» By Road: Khajuraho is connected by regular buses with Satna, Harpalpur, Jhansi and Mahoba.

Banaras

Banaras has also produced prominent musicians, philosophers, poets, and writers in Indian history, including Kabir, Munshi Premchand, Jaishankar Prasad, Pandit Ravi Shankar. India’s most venerated sages – Gautam Buddha, Kabir, Mahavira, Tulsidas, Shankracharya, Ramanuja, and Patanjali meditated here, which has made this place reverberating with the presence of immense peace & wisdom; this galaxy of great people has given Banaras a place of pride in the country.

The city of Banaras is situated on the west bank of the holiest of all Indian rivers, the Ganga or Ganges. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi – ‘the land of sacred light’. City of many names, Banaras was first known as Kashi, the city of light. The word ‘Kashi’ originated from the word ‘Kas’ which means to shine. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, Kashi is the ‘original ground ‘created by Shiva and Parvati, upon which they stood at the beginning of time.

Banaras was officially renamed in 1956 as Varanasi, a name from antiquity. Varanasi is the microcosm of Hinduism, a city of traditional classical culture, glorified by myth and legend and sanctified by religion; it has always attracted a large number of pilgrims and worshippers from time immemorial. To be in Varanasi is an experience in itself…. an experience in self-discovery… an eternal oneness of the body and soul.

Varanasi’s Prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrevealed. Mark Twain, the English author and literature, who was enthralled by the legend and sanctity of Benaras, once wrote : “Banaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”.

More than a pilgrimage for Hindus

Along with being the most sacred place for Hindus, its worth noting that Hindus and Muslims are braided together in this city in worship, culture, craft and commercial affairs.Muslim weavers make the famous Banarasi silk saris for the weddings of wealthy Hindus. Muslim craftsmen also produce the crowns of Hindu temple deities. Muslims play concerts at Hindu temples.

Devotion of Ustad Bismillah Khan

The city’s most celebrated musician, Bismillah Khan, is famous for having begun his mornings with devotional songs before the Hindu temple of Shiva. He attributed all his music at the lotus feet of the hindu deity. The Ustad personified secularism. “He was a practising Muslim who offered `namaz’ five times a day. Yet he had immense faith in Baba Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan and Ganga maiyya. When asked to hunt for greener pastures, he used to remark, “where will I find Baba Vishwanath and Ganga,” A devout Muslim, Khan was a symbol of India’s religious pluralism and a symbol of harmony for people of different faiths.

A Visit to Varanasi

A visit to Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience. The rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganges… the high-banks; the temples and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue …soul stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense filling the air…and the refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing at the Ghats. Varanasi – the land where experience and discovery reach the ultimate bliss.

Places to visit

Discover the tranquility of Sarnath

Buddhists worldwide look upon Banaras as the land of the Buddha, and a visit to this pilgrimage is celebrated in the memory of the Enlightened One. Bhudda, the great sage , after attaining enlightenment (Bhudda-hood) at Bodh Gaya came to Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to five disciples (i.e. Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanaman and Ashvajit) for redeeming humanity. It is this place where foundation of a new order of monks (Sangha) and a new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) was laid; set in motion the wheel of Law (Maha- Dharmachakra Pravartan). On the day before his death Buddha included Sarnath alongwith Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar as the four places he thought to be sacred to his followers.

The Emperor Ashoka, who spread the Buddha’s message of love and compassion throughout his vast empire, visited Sarnath around 234BC, and erected a stupa here. Emperor Ashoka built the Dharmarajika Stupa at the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon. During his excavations, Cunningham found inside the stupa a marble casket that might have contained the relics of the Buddha.

Just behind the Dharmarajika Stupa are the remains of the Ashoka Pillar, one of the many that Emperor Ashoka erected. The monolithic pillar was once crowned with the magnificent lion capital that is now in the Sarnath Museum.

The four roaring lions face the four directions symbolising the spread of the Buddha’s teaching. The pillar was originally 15 metres tall and the lions supported a dharmachakra or the wheel of law but only a few fragments of it have been found.

The Sarnath Museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist sculpture, inscription and pottery. Some of the finest images of the Buddha and panels depicting important episodes from his life can be seen here. Also worth visiting are the monasteries and temples built by other Buddhist countries in their indigenous architectural styles.

Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. Sarnath is 10 km from the holy city of Varanasi, and is an exceedingly tranquil place.

City of Temples & Ghats

Banaras contains more than 1,500 temples and mosques. Almost all of the city’s 5 km of river banks have been converted into ghats. Banaras on the whole has 100 bathing and burning ghats, of which Manikarnika ghat is the most sacred. This is the main burning ghat and one of the most auspicious places.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple

It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha. Also known as the Golden Temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the city. Varanasi is said to be the point at which the first jyotirlinga, the fiery pillar of light by which Shiva manifested his supremacy over other gods, broke through the earth’s crust and flared towards the heavens. It is one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of the Lord Shiva.

Bharat Mata Temple

This temple is dedicated to Mother India. Just one kilometer from the Varanasi station. The temple is built in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth which was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt. This temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 so that the citizens could respect Mother India in statue form. The statute is built in marble. The statue is a replica of undivided India in three dimension which has the mountains, plains and oceans in right proportion.

Annapurna Temple

Near the Kashi Vishwanath temple, there is a nice temple of Devi Annapurna , believed as the “Godess of Fooding”. Known as Annapurna Temple, it was built in 1725 A.D. by the Maratha chieftain, Peshwa Baji Rao I. During the annual Annakuta festival, just after Diwali, mountains of fruits, sweets and cereals are laid out before the goddess and then distributed to the poor.

Sankatmochan Temple

Lord Hanuman is also known as “Sankatmochan” the god who protects from the troubles; Sankat Mochan Temple was founded by Goswami Tulsidas. Ustad Bismillah Khan often used to play in this temple, and attributed all his music to the Hindu deity with reverence.

Ghats at Varanasi

The divine grace of this city lies is unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. Ghats of Varanasi are natural supplement to the concept of divinity. The great river banks at Varanasi, built high with eighteenth and nineteenth-century pavilions and palaces, temples and terraces, are lined with an endless chain of stone steps – the ghats – progressing along the whole of the waterfront, altering in appearance with the dramatic seasonal fluctuations of the river level. Each of the hundred ghats, big and small, is marked by a lingam, and occupies its own special place in the religious geography of the city.

Asi Ghat

Assi Ghat an important ghat of Varanasi traditionally constitutes the southern end of conventional city. According to a belief goddess Durga after slaining demon Shumbha- Nishumbha had thrown her sword. The place, where sword (Khadga) had fallen resulted in flowing of big stream known as asi river.

Alamgir Mosque

An amalgmation of Hindu-Muslim religious sentiments, this mosque is also known as “Beni Madhav ka Darera”. Curiously, the entire lower portion of the mosque is retained as a Hindu temple.(referece)

Banaras Hindu University

This is the largest and oldest university in north India. Spread over an area of 2,000 acres, this great place of education was established by Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya. Today the campus has faculties of Arts, Science, Music, Sanskrit, Languages, Engineering, Statistics and Medical to name a few of them. The university is a museum in its own right and requires more than half a day visit to do it justice.

More about Varanasi

Since Varanasi is mainly associated with Hinduism, temples form the main attraction. The Ganga Ghats (river fronts) are the main center of religious activities and rituals and also form one of the main attractions of Varanasi. The Alamgir Mosque, blend of the Hindu and Mughal styles of the architecture, is another important attraction of Varanasi. Some of the most important temples of Varanasi are Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple. The Bharat Mata Temple houses a huge relief map of the whole of Indian subcontinent and Tibetan plateau. Other attractions of Varanasi are the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), the Archaeological Museum, Sarnath, Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Buddhist Stupas and temples at Sarnath

A bitter contrasting perspective

While we talk of the beautiful and breathtaking picture of Banaras, Ustad Bismillah Khanji’s hometown and the ancient cityscape as painted by poets and singers, we shouldn’t forget that somewhere down the line, the glory has been tainted, the beauty has become tarnished. And who has done this to the grand beautiful city. We, humans! And none other than us… Mother Nature and the holy Gangaji have been silent witness to the atrocities committed by man in the name of religion and mukti. People believe that a dip in the holy ganges can wash off their sins forever. Under this pretext, tons of pollutants are being released into the so called Holy River. People believe the Kashi Vishveshwar temple is one of the holiest shrines in the country. But this mukti comes with a heavy price of superstitions, trampling upon one another to have a glimpse of Lord Shiva and creating filth all over the holy place. It’s about high time, the thinking individual of our country drop beliefs that are unwholesome and stand up to revive the lost grandeur of the city. The day when the artisans of the renowned Banarasi Silk are not exploited, the abode of Lord Shiva is turned into a peaceful commune rather than a cacophony of sinful souls seeking liberation, the day when Gangaji is revered as Holy and kept free from our pollutants, Benaras will become the Holiest place of the country in the true sense of the word.

Do visit this ancient city of death and liberation, but with a tender heart and an awakened mind!

The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnath Cave is on an ancient route. It takes four days to cover this 45-kilometre route which can at times be hazardous, if not intimidating. But when you know that you are in the lap of the captivating Himalayas and that thousands, perhaps millions of people, have walked on this path for centuries, and are still doing the same, it gives you an inner strength to move on. On this path have walked great saints like Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda and Swami Ramtirtha. On this path have walked the old and young, and will continue to do so for centuries to come.
There is an air of timelessness about the place. Everything here is so old and so new – the path, the journey, the hills, the glaciers, the cave, and the lingam. This is the place where legends are as old as the hills around you.
Parvati insisted to Lord Shiva to tell her the secret of His immortality. So, Lord Shiva embarked upon finding a place where no living being could reach and that only Parvati hears and stumbled upon a huge cave. In preparation for imparting the secret, He left Nandi, the bull, at Pahalgam and released the Moon from His hair at Chandanwari. At the banks of Lake Sheshnag, He released the snakes and decided to leave His son Ganesh at Mahagunas or Mahaganesh Parvat. Finally, at Panchtarni, Lord Shiva left the five elements. Then He entered Amarnath Cave with Parvati, sat on the deer skin and to ensure that no one was able to come near them, He created Rudra named Kalagni and ordered him to spread fire to eliminate all living beings around the cave. Then he narrated the secret of His immortality to Parvati. It so happened that an egg was lying underneath the deer skin. It is said that a pair of pigeons were born from it and became immortal. Pilgrims have reportedly seen the pigeons even today.
Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, Pahalgam at 2,130 m was once a humble shepherd’s village with breathtaking views. This is your starting point to Amarnath Cave. It is Kashmir’s premier resort; cool even during the height of summer when the maximum temperature does not exceed 250 C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and budgets. The place gets lively during the tourist months of the summer, as well as during the weeks before the Amarnath Yatra, as the base for a big annual pilgrimage.
There is something about the pure and re-vitalizing air of Pahalgam. Perhaps the dense pines and cedar forests make it oxygen rich. Limited accessibility combined with limited telecom connectivity also makes it an ideal getaway from the grind of daily life and professional stress.
The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is 12 kilometres which can take up to five hours. The route can be covered by road transport also. Mini buses are available from Pahalgam. The trail runs along the Lidder River, giving the entire journey a scenic value. Here is the first night halt. The main attraction at Chandanwari is a bridge which is perpetually covered by ice, though the surroundings are free from it.
Next day, you procede from Chandanwari, climbing the hills to reach Pissu Top, on your way to Sheshnag, your second halt. It is said that a great war took place on this spot between Devtas and Rakshas. With the power of Lord Shiva, the Devtas killed the Rakshas in such large numbers that a heap of their dead bodies resulted in this hill called Pissu Top.
The whole area from Chandanwari to Sheshnag is spectacular, primeval countryside. Sheshnag is a mountain which derives its name from its seven peaks, resembling the head of a mythical snake. The journey follows a steep incline on the right bank of a cascading stream and countryside untouched by civilization. The second night’s camp at Sheshnag overlooks the deep blue waters of Sheshnag Lake, and glaciers beyond it. Remember, these places are where legends are made and lived. There are legends of love and revenge associated with Sheshnag, and at the camp these are narrated by campfires. The stillness of a pine scented Himalayan night increases your inner joy.
From Sheshnag you climb the steep height up across Mahagunas Pass at 4276 m for a distance of four and a half kilometers and then descend to the meadow lands of Panchtarni at a height of 3657 m. The last night halt is made here on third day. Here one faces the cold winds which cause the skin to crack. Cold cream or petroleum jelly is very useful. The route to Mahagunas is full of rivulets, water falls and springs. Panchtarni is a very beautiful place in the feet of Bhairav Mount. The five rivers that flow here are said to have originated from Lord Shiva’s Hair (Jataon).
From Panchtarni to Amarnath Cave is a distance of 6 kilometres. An early morning start is recommended to avoid long queues at the entrance of the cave.
As you appear in front of the cave, you are impressed by the gaping hole in the mountain and overwhelmed by its size. The entrance to the cave is 40 yards across, the height 75 feet and it slopes down 80 feet inside the mountain. In the cave is the ice lingam of about 5 feet height, which forms during the summer days. Legend says that a shepherd Buta Malik received a bag full of coals from a saint. When he reached home and opened it, he found that the bag contained pieces of gold. He ran to thank the saint but the saint had gone. Instead, Buta Malik found this cave with the ice lingam in it.
Tradition has it that Rishi Bringesh told his disciples the significance of the cave and instructed them to do the pilgrimage. But his disciples were harassed by the rakshasas. Thereupon the rishi prayed to Lord Shiva and received a scepter that ensured safety. This scepter is now called Chari Mubarak. The traditional yatra arrives at the cave at Raksha Bandhan Poornima. The Chari is carried by the pilgrims to the cave.
For those on a journey of faith, it is a rewarding experience. But with more and more people taking this pilgrimage, the queues are often long and the darshan a hasty affair. But the wait and the darshan are worthwhile as it is the home of the Himalayan mendicant and the greatest of the Hindu deities. A brief reflection that once Lord Shiva sat here in this cave and that you are there is probably very rewarding. No wonder then that Sister Nivedita wrote long ago: “The place was vast and the great ice-Shiva was in a niche of the deepest shadow, sacred.”

There is something strikingly spiritual about this place. The loftiness of the mountains, the expanse of the undulating hills, the depth of the ravines, the softness of the wafting breeze and an endless sense of being – all these factors happen to touch the heart and the mind. These are the mountains that have beckoned, from long, long ago, a stream of wandering ascetics, religious scholars, devotees and travelers to their laps. There is a mention of these mountains in the Mahabharata when Pandavas ascended the slopes of a peak called Swargrohini or Ascent to Heaven. Just 4 kms away is Mana, where there is a cave where Vyas is said to have written the Mahabharata.

It is in these mountains that rishis, munis and yogis did severe austerities – some saints still are residing here in remote caves and sandy banks of the gurgling rivers. It is here that Goddess Ganga happens to descend to Earth from Heaven at Gangotri – the symbol of India’s culture and civilization, ever-changing, ever-flowing, and yet ever the same Ganga. It is here that Yamuna commences at Yamunotri; and Bhagirathi starts to trundle down fearlessly from Kedarnath; besides Alaknanda which meanders downhill from Badrinath. No wonder, then, this region is probably the most sacred in the world.

The water of the Ganga, especially at the source, contains no impurities and remains uncontaminated even after being kept over several years. While Hindus attribute this to its holiness, geologists say it is because of the minerals in it and scientists to the secretion of herbs.

This region consists of these four major pilgrim sites – one of them being part of the four major important temples of India established by none other than Adi Shankar himself centuries ago. Remember, these are holy towns, venerated by the people who come visiting on a pilgrimage and scarcely populated by simple-minded hill-folks, who are always under the influence of the positive vibrations of the region. And after you have finished your journey into this sacred region, you’ll come back a changed person.

Of all the four sites in this circuit, Badrinath is the most venerated. But this is not the first spot which you would probably go to. Your journey would start from Haridwar. You would obviously head for Yamunotri via Rishikesh. Since Yamunotri is a full-day’s journey from Haridwar, so start early in the morning. This place is the seat of goddess Yamuna as well as source of the river, and stands at the western flank of the perpetually snow-covered Bandarpoonch Peak (20,730ft). It is famous for thermal springs, including the Surya Kund, a tank full of boiling water into which rice and potatoes are cooked and taken as prasad. The source of Yamuna is at the difficult-to-reach Saptrishi Kund, said to have been venerated by the austerities of the seven rishis – Kashyap, Atri, Bhardwaj, Vishwamitra, Gautama, Jamadagni and Vashitha. The actual temple is six-kms-walk from the town of Hanuman Chatti. It houses the deity of goddess Yamuna, carved from black stone. She is the daughter of Surya and two sister of Yamraj.

After having touched the soils of the source of Yamuna, you’d head towards the source of probably the most venerated of rivers – Ganga. The seat of the goddess Ganga is at Gangotri, a two days’ journey from Yamunotri. This is a small town and the town as well as the life here is centered around the temple dedicated to goddess Ganga. This temple was built by the Gurkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century. The aarti ceremony is impressive as is the temple that sits on the banks of the gushing river. There are a few guesthouses and restaurants here which serve the pilgrims and the adventurous. A large number of tourists make an overnight 17-km trip to the actual source of Ganga at Gaumukh. Gangotri glaciers that start from Chaukhamba cluster of peaks extend up to Gaumukh. And river Ganga starts her long journey from within these glaciers. It is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name of Ganga from Devprayag onwards where it meets Alaknanada.

The water of the Ganga, especially at the source, contains no impurities and remains uncontaminated even after being kept over several years. While Hindus attribute this to its holiness, geologists say it is because of the minerals in it and scientists to the secretion of herbs.

From Gaurikund, Kedarnath is accessible after a steep 13-km trek. Untrained persons can take up to one day on this paved path and spend the night at Garurchatti. As you approach from Garurchatti, the magnificent temple of Kedarnath becomes visible even halfway through. With the stunning background of towering white dome mantled with snow, the temple presents an enchanting sight.

There is an aura of peace and purity. Here, the unholy are said to become holy and the holy, holier still. The temple is built on a morainic ridge jutting out at right angles from the snowy range. Besides its affiliation with Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is believed to be the site of Adi Shankar’s samadhi.

Remember, these are holy towns, venerated by the people who come visiting on a pilgrimage.

Your last halt on this circuit would be Badrinath, a two-day long journey from Kedarnath. Interestingly, badri refers to berry which grows abundantly in this area and nath refers to Lord Vishnu. (Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi took the form of berries to protect Lord Vishnu from inclement weather while He was doing penance.) According to The Bhagwad Gita, “In Badrikashram, Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as the sages Nara and Narayana, has been undergoing great penance for the welfare of all entities.”

The most visited site here is the Badrinath Temple, established by Adi Shankar in the 9th century. Of the several murtis here, the most important is the black stone statue of Lord Vishnu as Badri Narayana, depicted sitting in a meditative pose, rather than in His reclining posture. The temple is magnificent in its style and architecture. It is built on a ridge jutting out at right angles from the snowy range. It stands adjacent to the site of an earlier temple built by the Pandavas. Outside the temple door stands a large statue of the Nandi Bull built of large, heavy and evenly cut grey slabs of stones. How these were handled in those times remains a mystery.

Varanasi, considered as the most holy place of pilgrimage for Hindus, is also renowned for its rich tapestry of music, arts, crafts and education. This is the place where divine unification happened between shehnai and its maestro – Ustad Bismillah Khan, who immersed the world in the melody and rhythm of Shehnai.

India’s most venerated sages – Gautam Buddha, Kabir, Mahavira, Tulsidas, Shankracharya, Ramanuja, and Patanjali meditated here, which has made this place reverberate with the presence of immense peace and wisdom. Varanasi has also produced prominent musicians, philosophers, poets, and writers in Indian history, including Munshi Premchand, Jaishankar Prasad, Pandit Ravi Shankar. This galaxy of great people has given Varanasi a place of pride in the country.

The city of Varanasi is situated on the west bank of the holiest of all Indian rivers, the Ganga. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi – ‘the land of sacred light’. City of many names, it was first known as Kashi, the city of light. The word ‘Kashi’ originated from the word ‘Kas’ which means to shine. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, Kashi is the ‘original ground ‘created by Shiva and Parvati, upon which they stood at the beginning of time.

The city was officially renamed in 1956 as Varanasi, a name from antiquity. Varanasi is the microcosm of Hinduism, a city of traditional classical culture, glorified by myth and legend and sanctified by religion; it has always attracted a large number of pilgrims and worshippers from time immemorial. To be in Varanasi is an experience in itself…an experience in self-discovery…an eternal oneness of the body and soul.

Varanasi’s prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrevealed. Mark Twain, the English author who was enthralled by the legend and sanctity of Benaras, once wrote: “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”.

MORE THAN A PILGRIMAGE OR HINDUS

Along with being the most sacred place for Hindus, it’s worth noting that Hindus and Muslims are braided together in this city in worship, culture, craft and commercial affairs. Muslim weavers make the famous Benarasi silk saris for the weddings of wealthy Hindus. Muslim craftsmen also produce the crowns of Hindu temple deities. Muslims play concerts at Hindu temples.

DEVOTION OF USTAD BISMILLAH KHAN

The city’s most celebrated musician, late Ustad Bismillah Khan, famous for having begun his mornings with devotional songs before the Hindu temple of Shiva. He attributed all his music at the lotus feet of the Hindu deity. The Ustad personified secularism. He was a practising Muslim who offered `namaz’ five times a day. Yet he had immense faith in Baba Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan and Ganga maiyya. When asked to hunt for greener pastures, he used to remark, where will I find Baba Vishwanath and Ganga? A devout Muslim, he was a symbol of India’s religious pluralism and a symbol of harmony for people of different faiths.

A VISIT TO VARANASI

A visit to Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience. The rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganga… the high-banks; the temples and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue…soul-stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense filling the air…and the refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing at the Ghats. Varanasi – the land where experience and discovery reach the ultimate bliss.

DISCOVER THE TRANQUILITY OF SARNATH

Buddhists worldwide look upon Varanasi as the land of the Buddha, and a visit to this pilgrimage is celebrated in the memory of the Enlightened One. Buddha, the great sage, after attaining enlightenment (Buddhahood) at Bodh Gaya came to Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to five disciples (i.e. Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanaman and Ashvajit) for redeeming humanity. It is this place where the foundation of a new order of monks (Sangha) and a new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) was laid; set in motion the wheel of Law (Maha- Dharmachakra Pravartan). On the day before his death, Lord Buddha included Sarnath alongwith Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar as the four places he thought to be sacred to his followers.

Emperor Ashoka, who spread the Buddha’s message of love and compassion throughout his vast empire, visited Sarnath around 234BC, and erected a stupa here. Emperor Ashoka built the Dharmarajika Stupa at the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon. During his excavations, Cunningham found inside the stupa a marble casket that might have contained the relics of the Buddha.

Just behind the Dharmarajika Stupa are the remains of the Ashoka Pillar, one of the many that Emperor Ashoka erected. The monolithic pillar was once crowned with the magnificent lion capital that is now in the Sarnath Museum.

The four roaring lions face the four directions symbolising the spread of the Buddha’s teaching. The pillar was originally 15 metres tall and the lions supported a dharmachakra or the wheel of law but only a few fragments of it have been found.

The Sarnath Museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist sculpture, inscription and pottery. Some of the finest images of the Buddha and panels depicting important episodes from his life can be seen here. Also worth visiting are the monasteries and temples built by other Buddhist countries in their indigenous architectural styles.

Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. Sarnath is 10 kms from the holy city of Varanasi, and is an exceedingly tranquil place.

CITY OF TEMPLES & GHATS

Varanasi contains more than 1,500 temples and mosques. Almost all of the city’s 5 kms of river banks have been converted into ghats. On the whole, it has 100 bathing and burning ghats, of which Manikarnika ghat is the most sacred. This is the main burning ghat and one of the most auspicious places.

THE KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE

It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha. Also known as the Golden Temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the city. Varanasi is said to be the point at which the first jyotirlinga, the fiery pillar of light by which Lord Shiva manifested his supremacy over other gods, broke through the earth’s crust and flared towards the heavens. It is one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of the Lord Shiva.

BHARATMATA TEMPLE

This temple is dedicated to Mother India. Just one kilometer from the Varanasi station, the temple is built in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth which was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta. This temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 so that the citizens could respect Mother India in statue form. The statue is built in marble. The statue is a replica of undivided India in three dimensions which has the mountains, plains and oceans in right proportion.

ANNAPURNA TEMPLE

Near the Kashi Vishwanath temple, there is a nice temple of Devi Annapurna, the “Godess of Food”. Known as Annapurna Temple, it was built in 1725 A.D. by the Maratha chieftain, Peshwa Baji Rao I. During the annual Annakuta festival, just after Diwali, mountains of fruits, sweets and cereals are laid out before the goddess and then distributed to the poor.

SANKATMOCHAN TEMPLE

Lord Hanuman is also known as “Sankatmochan”, the god who protects us from the troubles. Sankat Mochan Temple was founded by Goswami Tulsidas. Ustad Bismillah Khan often used to play in this temple, and attributed all his music to the Hindu deity with reverence.

GHATS AT VARANASI

The divine grace of this city lies is unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. Ghats of Varanasi are natural supplement to the concept of divinity. The great river banks at Varanasi, built high with eighteenth and nineteenth-century pavilions and palaces, temples and terraces, are lined with an endless chain of stone steps – the ghats – progressing along the whole of the waterfront, altering in appearance with the dramatic seasonal fluctuations of the river level. Each of the hundred ghats, big and small, is marked by a lingam, and occupies its own special place in the religious geography of the city.

ASSI GHAT

Assi Ghat, an important ghat of Varanasi, traditionally constitutes the southern end of the conventional city. According to a belief Goddess Durga after slaying demon Shumbha- Nishumbha had thrown her sword here. The place, where the sword (khadga) had fallen resulted in flowing of big stream known as Assi river.

ALAMGIR MOSQUE

An amalgamation of Hindu-Muslim religious sentiments, this mosque is also known as “Beni Madhav ka Darera”. Curiously, the entire lower portion of the mosque is retained as a Hindu temple.

BENARAS HINDU UNIVERSITY

This is the largest and oldest university in north India. Spread over an area of 2,000 acres, this great place of education was established by Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya. Today the campus has faculties of Arts, Science, Music, Sanskrit, Languages, Engineering, Statistics and Medical, to name a few of them.
The university is a museum in its own right and requires more than half a day visit to do it justice.

A BITTER CONTRASTING PERSPECTIVE

While we talk of the beautiful and breathtaking pictures of Varanasi, Ustad Bismillah Khanji’s hometown and the ancient cityscape as painted by poets and singers, we shouldn’t forget that somewhere down the line, the glory has been tainted, the beauty has become tarnished. And who has done this to the grand beautiful city. We, humans! And none other than us…Mother Nature and the holy Gangaji have been silent witnesses to the atrocities committed by man in the name of religion and mukti. People believe that a dip in the holy Ganga can wash off their sins forever. Under this pretext, tons of pollutants are being released into the so called Holy River. People believe the Kashi Vishveshwar temple is one of the holiest shrines in the country. But this mukti comes with a heavy price of superstitions, trampling upon one another to have a glimpse of Lord Shiva and creating filth all over the holy place. It’s high time, the thinking individual of our country drop the beliefs that are unwholesome and stand up to revive the lost grandeur of the city.

The day when the artisans of the renowned Banarasi Silk are not exploited, the abode of Lord Shiva is turned into a peaceful commune rather than a cacophony of sinful souls seeking liberation, the day when Gangaji is revered as Holy and kept free from pollutants, Varanasi will become the Holiest place of the country in the true sense of the word.

Do visit this ancient city of death and liberation, but with a tender heart and an awakened mind!