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Alamgir
Mosque
Also known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera,
this mosque was originally built in the
Vishnu architectural style but now
displays Hindu and Mughal architectural
influences. Perhaps best seen from a
boat, the mosque sits picturesquely on
the banks of the Rover Ganges.
Bharat Mata Temple
Unusual for its absence of images of
gods and goddesses, this temple is
dedicated to ‘Mother India’ and instead
contains a relief of a map of India. A
fairly recent construction when compared
to other temples in the city, the
building was sponsored by Shiv Prashad
Gupt, completed in 1936, and inaugurated
by Mahatma Gandhi. One of the most
interesting facets of the temple is that
it is open to people of all creeds.
Ghats
With over 100 ghats to explore, it is
unlikely any visitor will have time to
see them all. Each of the primary ghats
(steps leading down to the river) are
indicated by a lingam, or a phallic
symbol of lord Shiva. Many of the ghats
double as morning bathing spots for
pilgrims, an amazing sight at dawn. The
ghats are also a popular hang out for
religious men, some of which spend their
time practicing yoga or smoking ganja
for religious purposes. These colourful
characters are often willing to engage
in conversation with visitors and are
even willing to be photographed for a
small donation. Highlights include
Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats,
which are commonly referred to as
‘burning ghats’ for their function as
the site of Hindu cremations. Visitors
can pause to take in this sight, but are
not encouraged to linger for long or to
take photographs. One of the most
relaxing ways to take in the ghats from
a distance is to hire a boat for a trip
along the river.
Government Museum Mathura
One of Varanasi’s museum highlights is
this interesting collection of antiques,
largely gathered by archaeologists
Cunnigham, Growse, and Fuhrer. Of great
importance is the museum’s collection of
pieces that are associated with the
Mathura School of Sculptures and dating
from the 3rd to the 12th century. Other
works include paintings, clay objects,
pottery and bronze items.
Great Mosque of Aurangzeb
The last Mughal ruler, Aurangzeb, is
well known for his destruction of
temples and their replacement with
mosques during his 48-year rule over
Hindustan. The Bineswar Temple in
Varanasi did not escape this same fate
and was replaced by the Great Mosque of
Aurangzeb in the second half of the 17th
century. Nestled on the banks of the
Ganges, its minarets are 71 metres high
and can be see from afar.
Pandit Malaviya Temple
Unique in that it is open to people of
all castes and religions, the Pandit
Malaviya Temple was inspired by the man
of the same name, who wanted to see
Hinduism eliminate caste distinctions.
The interior is said to be a
reconstruction of the now destroyed
Vishwanath Temple, which was toppled by
Mughal ruler Aurangzeb in the 17th
century.
Ram Nagar Fort and Museum
Formerly the residence of Maharaja of
Benaras, this 17th century stronghold is
best seen from the river. Reached via a
dilapidated bridge or by ferry during
the monsoon season, the fort also
contains an interesting museum that
contains some elaborate relics. Expect
to see everything from gruesome elephant
traps to astrological clocks and
razor-sharp swords. |
