Myths and reality: An Ethnographic study of Varanasi as a south Asian city

Abstract

This research paper explores the various cultural aspects of Varanasi that have made Varanasi, the cultural capital of India. Varanasi has always been known for its diversity and Culture plays a very crucial role in its diversification. Varanasi also popularly known as Benaras has been popular across the world for being the ancient most city in the world. Varanasi is the city of Gods and Goddesses and thus is a sacred and a holy city in South Asia. Kashi or Varanasi is a prominent city describing the beauty of Indian culture and it’s multidimensional aspects. Varanasi which is a combination of conventional and modern culture has revived the forms of culture representing the culture of India. Even the transgenders rejoice their lives in Varanasi beleiving that they are a part of lord Shiva and goddess Durga. Men, women and transgenders all have adapted the culture of Varanasi and have together proved it to be the cultural capital of India. Varanasi depicts the definition of culture and ways to practise it. Varanasi though a small city is a prominent city and stands different from other cities in the world. Varanasi defines culture and culture defines Varanasi. Banaras in India represents the unification of Indian traditional and western culture both practised in their pure forms and together. This research emphasizes the ethnicity and cultural diversity of Varanasi. Varanasi is a South Asian City which has been frequently used in literature in many languages like Hindi, Bangla, Tamil, English, Sanskrit and other languages. Kashi is directly connected with Culture and it’s several aspects and is highly marked for its significance in literature