Almost all aspects of Indian civilization have occupied land that has been inhabited for years. Some cities are more prominent than others and some of the most important cities still exist in places such as Varanasi.
Varanasi is possibly the oldest city that has continuously been occupied to this day. It is on the banks of the River Ganga, which has long been considered to be one of the most important places in the Hindu religion as well as one of the oldest places to have been significant for thousands of years as a site of spiritual and educational development. Varanasi is called Kashi or Banaras.
Pilgrims, scientists, and students come to this city along with all the other visitors to India. Varanasi is a city representative of the continuity and enduring aspects of the cultures and traditions of India.
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Which is the Oldest City in India?
Varanasi, also called Kashi or Banaras, is often credited with being India's oldest continually inhabited city.
Some scholars indicate the city was established over 3000 years ago while some theories provide evidence of longer settlement periods. It lies on the banks of the Ganges River and has been a significant religious, cultural, and educational hub throughout its entire history.
As opposed to other ancient archaeological sites that became uninhabitable, advanced evidence shows that the city of Varanasi continues to be an active and vibrant historical site which is the reason it is always recognized as one of the oldest cities still inhabited today.
Interesting Facts About Varanasi
1. Continuously Inhabited City with the Longest History
Varanasi is documented as the longest continuously inhabited city in the world. Its past reaches back over thousands of years, and Varanasi has never been subjected to abandonment. Therefore, it is a notable example of a living city that continues to celebrate its ancient traditions.
2. The Spiritual Centre of India
As the spiritual hub of India, Varanasi draws millions of pilgrims annually. Many Hindu devotees believe that they can attain Moksha (liberation) by living or dying in Varanasi, resulting in it becoming one of Hinduism's holiest cities.
3. Famous Ghats
There are more than 80 ghats located on the banks of the River Ganga in Varanasi. These steps into the water are used for bathing, conducting ritual ceremonies and funerals.
Some of the ghats, such as Manikarnika Ghat, are used specifically for cremation, making them extremely sacred within Hindu belief systems.
4. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage sites and holds great significance within Hinduism for believers all over India and the world.
5. Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti, performed mostly at Dashashwamedh Ghat, is a grand ritual performed with lamps, chanting and music. As such, it provides an extraordinary sense of spiritual atmosphere and attracts many adherents and tourists who observe and participate in this ancient tradition.
