10 interesting facts about Varanasi

Varanasi is a sacred place, which is visited by a great number of tourists throughout the year. This place has a lot to offer to its visitors, leaving them enthralled. From beautiful mesmerizing temples to the heavenly Ganga Shanahan, which is believed to wipe off the sins of the believers, there’s a lot that this city has in store for its guests. Given below are 10 interesting facts about Varanasi, which make this place all the more unique.

The most ancient surviving city

It is believed that this holy city is one of the oldest living cities in the world. In fact, it is believed that this place was once the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This connection of this city with eternity doesn’t end here; for it is believed that the person who inhales his final breath here, actually attains salvation.

The epicenter of sciences

Being the land where the founder of natural sciences, Maharishi Patanjali, took his first steps, this town has been at the helm of the germination of scientific knowledge. It is hardly an enigma that the ancient holistic healing sciences such as Yoga and other traditional forms have their roots in this city.

A major trading center

Not only is Varanasi the spiritual capital of the nation, it is also a leading trading center as a great amount of trade is done here. The intricate silver and gold brocades and the famous Banarasi silk are the major items that this city is known for.

A hub of rich literature

An interesting fact about Varanasi is that a number of famous literary geniuses such as Munshi Prem Chand and Tulsi Das hail from this city.

A religious hub

This place has countless temples devoted to Shaivism and Vaishnavism, and both these forms of Hinduism stay together here in harmony.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

The largest University in Asia that is Banaras Hindu University, founded by the famous leader Madan Mohan Malviya, is also a part of this place.

A favourite site for shooting

A picturesque destination, this place has been featured in a number of movies. Many television shows have also used this holy location for shooting purpose.

A source of music

Ravi Shankar and the shehnai maestro, Ustad Bismillah Khan, the leading legends of the industry also have their roots in this place.

A rich cultural milieu

This place is a great symbol of the Hindu new beginning as it is a hub of culture, knowledge, devotion, art and philosophy.

Frog Marriage

A very uncanny and astonishing custom is practiced in this city – frog marriage, which is particularly done in the rainy season at the Ashwamedh Ghat. The priest performs the ceremony of wedding a couple of frogs and then they are then left into the river.