The
art and culture of Varanasi is unique. It is the rich cultural tradition
of Varanasi that makes it the cultural capital of India. A combination
of archaeology, mythology, geography, art and history makes Varanasi a
great center of Indian culture. Though Varanasi is associated mainly
with Hinduism and Buddhism but one can find glimpse of many religious
beliefs, types of worship and religious institutions at Varanasi. It is
amazing to see the primitive worship cults being practiced at Varanasi.
Varanasi presents a complete museum of Indian art and culture. At
Varanasi one can feel the changing patterns and movements in course of
history. It has a rich and unique style of art forms and folk art. For
centuries, Varanasi has produced master craftsmen and earned name and
fame for its beautiful Sarees, handicrafts, textiles, toys, ornaments,
metal work, clay and woodwork and other crafts.
Since ancient times, Varanasi has been the Capital of all knowledge
(sarva Vidya ki Rajdhani). Varanasi has produced numerous famous
scholars and intellectuals, who have left their mark in respective
fields of activity. Varanasi is home to numerous universities, college,
schools, Madarsas and Pathshalas and the Guru Shishya tradition still
continue in many institutions. The literary tradition of languages,
dialects, newspapers, magazines and libraries continue to even this day.
Varanasi presents a unique social and cultural fabric. Cultural and
linguist pluralism and various ethnic groups are so very eternal to the
holy city, Varanasi. At Varanasi one gets to explore the city of
affluence, intellectuals, oral traditions, castes and customs,
personalities, professions and communal harmony. There is another
interesting facet to Varanasi, where one gets to enjoy Benarasi pans,
Thandai, Gamcha, Bahri Alang and Mauj Masti.
Music, drama and entertainment are all synonymous with Varanasi.
Benaras has long been famous for its music, both vocal and instrumental
and has its own dance traditions. Add to this, Varanasi has a very rich
stock of folk music and drama (esp. Ramlila), fairs and festival and the
rich tradition of akharas, games and sports. All these combine together
to give a distinct look to the city of moksha, Varanasi.
