I got the oppurtunity to spend 2 blissful months in the ancient city of holy Ganges – Benares which is also known by the names of – Banaras, Varanasi & Kaashi. I was on a summer training program in the famous Cytogenetics Lab in Banaras Hindu University. Besides the exciting research environment and very helpful & free work culture of the lab, I was overwhelmed with the simplicity and warmth of the people of this holy city. Here are some of the images of this city which reflect the old spiritual India standing gloriously amidst the new pseudoshiny image India is trying to portrey in the global arena.
Countryside in Uttar Pradesh, India
Road side Hanuman Temple in Ramnagar, Varanasi -India
Riverside view of the Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi -India
Lassi (diluted curd with a dessert) in an earthern pot called Kuhladd
Aarti at Dashashvamedh Ghat of River Ganges
A view of the ancient city of Benares
Flowers to be presented to the River Ganges during Aarti
Sarees – a traditional women wear
Bhujia – a spicy local delicacy
Colors – to be applied on each other’s faces on a festival called Holi
Another view of the Aarti
Perfumed smoke emitted by burning herbs
New Kaashi-Vishvanath Temple in BHU Campus
Ancient Kaashi-Vishvanath Temple in old city Benares
Some low resolution clips of Benaras can be seen here:
RamGarh Fort, Benaras:
Aart-Dashashvamedh Ghat – Ganges River – With Fire:
Aarti at Dashashvamedh Ghat – Ganges River – Smoke Mantra:
