September 25, 2015
Wonderful Varanasi
Among Hinduism's countless holy places, Varanasi stands unique. Probably nowhere else is the human drama of life, death, destiny and ultimate liberation so much out in the open for all to see and be affected by.
Our July-August-September issue's feature article, Varanasi, cracks open many doors onto the wonders, mysteries and depths of this magical place. Star reporter Rajiv Malik guides us through the city's streets, temples, institutions and traditions. He introduces us to the priests, mourners, Sanskrit scholars, burning-ghats attendants, inspired residents, and those philosophically awaiting this life's conclusion.
To give an idea of the article's depth and value, here are some of its section headings:
- Just how ancient is Varanasi?
- The famed burning ghats
- Faithfully awaiting one's departure
- How does expiring in Kashi ensure liberation?
- The bastion of Sanskrit
- The city's temple heart
- Ghat sadhana: Ancestor worship, Ganga offerings, Meditation and more
And here are a few aspects of the city covered in the article:
- Kashi is possibly the oldest continuously inhabited place on our planet, dating back to 1800 BCE and likely much farther.
- The hope for liberation has inspired a retirement community and a hospice industry in Varanasi.
- "We admit those who are most needy and deserving..." says R V Vishwanathan who manages a hospice for the aged.
- Kamla Chakravarty, 97, originally from Bangladesh, shares: "They are taking good care of me, here. I'm ready to leave this world and pray to God to grant me liberation."
- The city's spiritual intensity no doubt helps propel transmigrating souls forward— in direction of ultimate enlightenment and liberation from the coils of earthly existence.
- And with all that, the city is also a grand center of education, as it has been for centuries. It has seven universities, 40 degree-granting colleges and 1,600 Sanskrit vidyalayas (traditional schools and colleges).
- The city's temple heart: Thrice destroyed, Kashi Vishwanath stands foremost again among Varanasi's sacred places
- For all its marvels, the city does face serious contemporary challenges. These are also covered in the article.
Here is a major and most important article. Read it. Take your time with it, and allow yourself to absorb its nourishment. It will give you much understanding and appreciation for this jewel of a place, for Hinduism itself and for the essence of human life. Om.
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