Storyteller, Quizzer, Marcom Pro.
Storyteller, Quizzer, Marcom Pro.
The Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple in Varanasi is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Mrityunjay, the conqueror of death. The name comes from the Sanskrit words mrityu (death) and jaya (victory), symbolizing Shiva’s power to shield…
During eclipses, Hindu temples across India customarily close their sanctums. Traditional belief holds that an eclipse disrupts natural energies, making the atmosphere unfit for worship. Ancient texts often describe eclipses as times when cosmic balance is disturbed, and so rituals…
Holi, one of the most vibrant festivals celebrated across India, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi has deep roots in Hindu mythology and rich cultural traditions.…
Situated near the Assi area of Varanasi, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is among the city’s most venerated shrines. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, revered as the Sankat Mochan or “reliever of troubles,” a title that reflects his role…
Lolark Kund, near Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi, is one of the city’s most ancient and revered stepwells. It is deeply tied to fertility rites and solar worship. The name Lolark means “Trembling Sun,” a reference to the shimmering reflection of…
The Annapurna Devi Mandir, located near the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the giver of food and nourishment. The name Annapurna comes from two Sanskrit words: anna (food or grain) and purna (complete or…
The Doms is a community whose presence is inseparable from Varanasi’s cremation ghats. For centuries, they have overseen cremations at Manikarnika and Harishchandra, the two principal burning ghats on the Ganga. Their work is ritually central: arranging wood, building pyres,…
At the northern edge of the Kashi Vishwanath temple complex in Varanasi stands the Gyan Vapi Well, a structure that has long shaped the identity of the precinct. The name comes from the Sanskrit jñāna (knowledge) and vāpī (well or…
Situated at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is famous for its dramatic nine-degree tilt, which exceeds that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Ratneshwar Mahadev, it is also called…