Exploring the Mysteries of Varanasi

One of the world’s oldest cities and a world renowned religious town, Varanasi is a must see for anyone who lives or travels in India. My first planned visit to Varanasi over 12 years ago, was cancelled when Indian Airlines delayed my flight. I had always fantasized about finally seeing this religious town in India and marvel at its wonder as I sailed down the Ganges. I finally achieved my dream just over a year ago, landing in Varanasi after a visit to Khajuraho, full of anticipation and excitement.

The Charm of History

My romantic notions about this historical Indian town were quickly dashed amidst the noise and chaos of the traffic and dust filled my nostrils, it was an assault on the senses. Soon we edged closer to the river and my vehicle came to a screeching halt. No motor vehicles were allowed into the old town, from here I was to travel by foot.

Leaving the main road and entering a small lane, soon the mystery and intrigue that I had expected of this ancient place became real. I could almost feel the ghosts of decades gone past that had walked through these tiny streets that snaked behind the magnificent Ganges in a maze.  Shopkeepers shouted as they tried to sell me their wares, everything from world famous Benares silk to namkeen was being traded in these narrow corridors.

Surrounded by Religion 

Finally I caught a glimpse of the sacred river, this is what I was there for after all. It was magnificent, flowing proud and strong.  Hundreds of people lined the ghats, practicing their religion and experiencing the wonder of this magical place.

Away from the banks of the Ganges, amongst the laneways, is the sacred Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, where thousands come each week to express their devotion to Lords Rama and Hanuman. The most famous event held at the temple is the Sankat Mochan Sangeet. This Indian music festival has been going for almost a 100 years, and now attracts the creme de la creme of Indian classical musicians and dancers. Spread over five days, it will be held from 29 April to 3 May this year, and celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman.

Though a religious event, it is really a celebration of Indian music, which is fitting given how much Hanuman appreciated great music. In the spirit of the event, world renowned musicians perform voluntarily, and include performances that document Hanuman’s victorious adventures and life. This Indian religious event is rich in history, folklore and the arts, bringing together all that makes Varanasi such a wonderful town.

I have since returned to Varanasi again, to show a friend who was visiting India from Australia. On our tour across Northern India, it was only fitting that she experienced everything that Varanasi could throw at her, from the bedlam of the station, to getting lost in the tiny alleys, to the serenity of the Ganges at dawn. This was India in all her glory, as she had been for thousands of year and would be for another thousand.

Want to step back in time? MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights and trains to Varanasi.