History of Varanasi

The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the famous pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. According to scriptures, the city was founded by the Lord Shiva,thus making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. Many Hindu scriptures, including the Rigveda, Skanda Purana, Ramayana, and the Mahabharata, mention this city.Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals.Varanasi is generally believed to be about 3,000 years old.

Varanasi is often said to be located between two confluences: one of Ganga and Varuna, and other of Ganga and Assi.Thus this city acquired the name, Varanasi.A tribe called kasha used to live in that place. So, it acquires another name as Kashi.According to another theory,the place might got its name from a grass named Kusa that grew wildly in the region where the city was built.In 10th century,a king named Benar,ruled Kashi dynasty.He built several temples.Sothat it acquired the name Benares(Benar+Aawas).A few mentions that during the regime of British rulers,it got the name of Benares. Ka means the cause, a means the manifestation of consciousness, sa means peace and I is the causal body. Kasi is also the place which causes consciousness to manifest the highest peace of the causal body.The city of Varanasi is located in the middle Ganga valley of North India, in the Eastern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh, along the left crescent-shaped bank of the Ganga river.

In this city, Shiva himself established as the saviour Muktidayak Jyotirlinga, which he can never leave.During Pralaya i.e., final destruction of the world, Shiva saved it by keeping it safe in his trident. So kashi is called Avimukta Kshetra. In Kashi, the Avimukteshwar Linga is there forever. Those who can never hope for salvation, attains Moksha here.It is believed that when anybody dies Kashi,Lord Shiva will teach Taraka mantra (Ram Naam) in their right ear.Thus the Lord himself,helps the person to get rid from the cycle of birth and death.