podcastsinenglish Travelogue: Varanasi
Aug 17, 2017
Explore the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi, India's oldest city, and the life-giving Ganges river. Discover how a dip in its waters is believed to cleanse sins. Get a glimpse of the burning ghats where cremation rituals unfold amidst an unusual tranquility. Delve into vibrant local markets filled with colorful scarves and bangles, and wander through lanes leading to the Golden Temple, adorned with unique religious items. Witness the diverse tapestry of pilgrims and the serene backstreets, capturing the essence of this sacred destination.
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Ganges Cleanses Past And Present Sins
- Varanasi's holiness centers on the Ganges and ritual bathing to remove sins.
- The speaker emphasizes this belief reaches beyond one life to erase sins from previous lives.
Burning Ghats Are Sacred And Restricted
- Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die and be cremated near the Ganges.
- The speaker notes cremations happen openly at burning ghats but forbids photography there.
Shopping After Ritual Bathing
- The speaker wanders Varanasi markets after bathing, finding scarves, bangles, and shirts.
- He points out religious items increase along the lane to the Golden Temple.