History of Varanasi (Kashi) – One of the World’s Oldest Cities

Varanasi is also known as Kashi or Banaras. Three names, one soul. This is not just a city. It is a living heritage, a breathing story that began thousands of years ago – and it’s still being written.

Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, Varanasi is believed to be over 3,000 years old. Some even say it’s the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. Imagine that. While empires rose and fell, this city stood firm – whispering prayers, lighting lamps, and teaching generations the meaning of life and death.

So what makes Varanasi so special?           

A City of Many Names

• Kashi – its ancient name, which means “the city of light.”
• Banaras – the name used for centuries in poetry, music, and conversation
• Varanasi – the modern name is derived from the rivers Varuna and Assi that mark the city’s edges.

Each name tells a part of its story. A story full of devotion, wisdom, and wonder.

Timeless and Ever-Living

Varanasi is not just a city of buildings. It’s a city of ideas. A place where every narrow lane (gully) echoes with chants and conversations. Where time seems slower – yet somehow deeper.
It has been:

• A center of Hindu learning and philosophy
• A sacred city for Buddhists and Jains too
• A hub of art, music, and classical dance
• A canvas for saints like Kabir, Tulsidas, and Buddha

Where Life Meets Eternity

Ever seen a funeral procession and a wedding in the same street? In Varanasi, it’s common.
Here, death is not the end – it’s a doorway to salvation. Manikarnika Ghat, where cremations happen day and night. It’s a place of peace.
Why? Because people believe dying here can break the cycle of rebirth.

What Awaits You in Varanasi?

• A spiritual vibe that’s hard to explain but easy to feel
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat – fire, chant, and devotion
• Narrow gullies filled with temples, cows, and surprises
• Boat rides at sunrise that feel like time travel
• Wisdom from sages, students, and strangers
• Stories hidden in walls, ghats, and even street food

In short, Varanasi isn’t just old. It’s eternal.

Ancient Roots of Varanasi

Varanasi is not just a city: it’s a story that began thousands of years ago.

Let’s go back to the very beginning.

Some historians believe that Varanasi may have existed even before the Indus Valley Civilization. That means it could be over 5000 years old. Imagine a city where people were living and praying while most of the world was still figuring out farming.

Mention in the Rigveda

Kashi, the ancient name of Varanasi, is mentioned in the Rigveda, one of the oldest Hindu scriptures. That makes it one of the earliest known cities in Indian spiritual texts. Kashi wasn’t just a name; it means a symbol of light, knowledge, and divine power.

Founded by Lord Shiva?

According to Hindu mythology, Varanasi was founded by Lord Shiva himself. He is said to have chosen this city as his home on Earth. That’s why many believe this place is not made by man but blessed by the gods.

This belief is still strong. Walk around the ghats or visit a temple – you’ll feel the presence of stories older than memory.

Archeological Findings

What does science say?

• Tools and pottery found around the city suggest settlements from 1000 BCE or earlier
• The Ramnagar area and Rajghat plateau show evidence of continuous human life
• Many layers of history are buried here-from prehistoric to modern times

In short, Varanasi is not just ancient. It’s timeless.

Religious Significance of Varanasi

Why do millions of people travel to Varanasi each year with hope and devotion in their hearts? The answer lies in its deep spiritual roots. This city is not only sacred to Hindus but also holds meaning for Buddhists and Jains. 

Let’s explore why Varanasi is a place of worship across different faiths.

Shiva and Parvati – The Divine Heartbeat of Kashi

Many believe Lord Shiva himself founded Kashi. That makes Varanasi more than a city. It becomes the center of divine energy.
It is said that Shiva married Goddess Parvati right here. Their union symbolizes cosmic balance.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas
• Devotees say just visiting this temple can wash away sins
• The temple stands as a symbol of eternal love and power

Mahabharata’s Echoes – Kashi in Hindu Epics

Did you know Kashi appears in both the Mahabharata and the Ramayana?

• In the Mahabharata, Kashi was a powerful kingdom
• Its princess, Amba, played a role in the epic’s key events
• In the Ramayana, Lord Rama broke the bow of Shiva to marry Sita, an event said to be linked to Kashi’s legends

These stories make Varanasi feel alive, like history is whispering through its ghats and temples.

Jainism’s Sacred Roots – Birthplace of Tirthankaras

Varanasi is also holy for followers of Jainism. It’s the birthplace of Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.

• Jain temples dot the city, especially near Bhelupur
• These temples are peaceful, filled with calm energy
• The teachings of Jainism found early roots here

So even if you follow a different path, you’ll feel the power of silence in these sacred spots.

The Bodhisatta’s Wisdom – Jataka Tales & Buddhism

Just a few kilometers from Varanasi lies Sarnath. This is where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Can you imagine the peace in a place where the Wheel of Dharma was set in motion?

• Buddhism began its journey from Sarnath
• The Dhamek Stupa marks the sacred ground
• Jataka tales also mention this area in stories of Buddha’s earlier lives

This makes Varanasi and its surroundings a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world.

Cultural Hub of India

Varanasi is a living museum of Indian culture. Every street, temple, and ghat tells a story. But do you know what truly makes Varanasi the cultural heart of India?

Banaras Hindu University – A Center of Learning

Founded in 1916, BHU is one of Asia’s largest residential universities. It has p

roduced scholars, scientists, and artists.
The campus is home to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, full of ancient art and rare manuscripts.
People from all over India come here to study Sanskrit, philosophy, music, and modern science.

Home of Classical Music Legends

Did you know Varanasi gave the world maestros like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan?

• Pandit Ravi Shankar took the sitar to global stages.
• Bismillah Khan made the shehnai a symbol of India’s musical soul.

Music flows through the veins of this city. Walk around, and you may hear a musical instrument playing in a temple or home.

A Stage for Literature and Performing Arts

Varanasi is a paradise for lovers of literature and theater. Great poets like Tulsidas and Kabir lived and wrote here.

• Street performances and Ramleela during festivals
• Schools teaching Kathak dance and Sanskrit drama
• A strong oral tradition of storytelling, bhajans, and folk songs

The Art of Weaving – Banarasi Sarees

Banaras is famous for its handloom industry. The iconic Banarasi silk sarees are known for their rich gold and silver zari work, and the sarees are totally handwoven.
They are often passed down for generations.Weavers here have preserved their craft for centuries; many still work on handlooms in narrow lanes.

Golden Era of Varanasi

Did you know there was a time when Varanasi was at the heart of India’s glory?

The city saw its golden age during the Maurya and Gupta empires. These were the powerful rulers of ancient India. They brought peace, growth, and prosperity. Under their rule, Varanasi bloomed like never before.

What made this time so special?

Varanasi as a Center of Trade

• Traders came here from across India and beyond
• It became a key hub for silk, perfumes, ivory, and crafts
• The Ganga River helped in easy transport and trade

Hub of Knowledge and Learning

• Sanskrit schools attracted scholars from distant lands
• Varanasi became a major seat for Vedic and philosophical studies
• Early universities nearby, like Nalanda, were influenced by its culture

Royal Support for Culture

• Kings of the Gupta period were known for promoting art and learning
• Temples were built, poets were encouraged, and music was celebrated
• Literature, astronomy, and medicine were taught and shared here

Can you imagine a time when this holy city was also a global learning hub?

The golden age left behind more than temples. It built the soul of Varanasi. Its legacy still flows in the ghats, the chants, and the stories.

Muslim Rule and Varanasi

How did Varanasi survive centuries of destruction?

During the Muslim rule in India, Varanasi faced repeated invasions and religious challenges. The city, known for temples and Sanskrit learning, became a target. Mahmud of Ghazni attacked in the 11th century. Later, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of many temples, including the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

But the spirit of Kashi did not break.

Despite being attacked many times and facing lots of challenges, the city remained a hub for faith and resilience. Locals continued to worship, often in secret. Sacred rituals shifted to hidden shrines. Knowledge moved from grand institutions to small homes and gurukuls.

Then came the rebuilding.

The Marathas played a big role in reviving Varanasi’s sacred landscape. Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, in the 18th century, rebuilt the Kashi Vishwanath Temple near the original site. Other Maratha nobles restored temples, ghats, and dharmshalas.

Here’s how Varanasi showed its strength:

• Rebuilt major temples after destruction
• Preserved oral traditions and Sanskrit learning
• Kept Ganga worship alive across generations
• Blended new architecture with ancient designs

Even during tough times, Varanasi did not give up. The culture changed but stayed alive. The people stayed strong. The spirit and shine continue in Varanasi.

Colonial Influence

What happened to Varanasi during British rule?

The British took control of Varanasi in the 18th century. In 1911, the local king ruled, but under the British authority, and they also declared Varanasi a princely state. This shifted the power structure. Yet the city adapted.

Varanasi saw many changes during this time:

• Roads, railways, and postal systems improved
• English education was introduced
• Schools and colleges were set up
• Printing presses gave rise to free expression

The most notable was the founding of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916. It became a center for modern education with Indian values.

Many nationalistic voices emerged. People began to question colonial rule. Writers, thinkers, and leaders from Varanasi played their part in India’s freedom struggle.

Despite foreign rule, Varanasi stayed rooted in its culture. It absorbed the changes but kept its soul intact.

Modern Varanasi

What does Varanasi look like today? It’s ancient. Yet it’s changing.

The city is finding new meaning in the modern world. From massive redevelopment to tech-driven growth, Varanasi is on the move.

Let’s look at how.

Kashi Vishwanath Corridor

This project has reshaped the spiritual heart of Varanasi.
The corridor links the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the Ganga river. Earlier, pilgrims walked through narrow lanes. Now there’s space, light, and beauty.

• Over 300 buildings removed with care
• Wider roads and open spaces created
• Heritage temples restored along the path

The result? A smoother and more sacred experience for millions.

Pilgrimage, Tourism, and Smart City Push

People come to Varanasi for salvation. They now stay for the experience.

With better roads, cleaner ghats, and high-tech services, tourism is booming. The Smart City project has played a big role.

Here’s how:

• Free Wi-Fi zones in public places
• Digital maps and signboards
• Solar-powered streetlights
• Modern sewage and waste systems

The ghats are cleaner. Streets are brighter. The city feels more welcoming.

Representation by PM Modi

Did you know Varanasi is the parliamentary seat of India’s prime minister?

Since 2014, PM Narendra Modi has focused attention here. Development got a strong push. Schemes are monitored closely. Big projects got funding.

This political importance has brought:

• National and global visibility
• Major investments in roads, rail, and river ports
• Cultural events and global summits

Varanasi became not just holy but headline-worthy.

Blending Heritage with Modernity

How do you preserve a 3000-year-old city while preparing for the future?

Varanasi is trying to answer that.

• Ancient temples are being restored
• Old buildings are being preserved
• Crafts like silk weaving are getting modern support

Varanasi Cable Car – A New Way to See Kashi

Imagine flying over the ghats and rooftops of Kashi instead of being stuck in traffic. The upcoming Varanasi Cable Car project promises just that. It will not only save travel time but also offer a breathtaking aerial view of the city’s spiritual heart.

Want full details, route plans, and launch updates?
Read everything about the Varanasi Cable Car here

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FAQs – History of Varanasi

Q: Is Varanasi the world’s oldest city?
Many believe Varanasi is the world’s oldest living city. It has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years. Some even say its roots go back 5,000 years or more. Ancient texts like the Rigveda mention it. While other cities may rival its age, Varanasi stands out for its uninterrupted legacy.

Q: Why is it called Kashi?
Kashi is the ancient name of Varanasi. It means “the city of light.” The name comes from Sanskrit and reflects the spiritual energy of the place. It is said that Lord Shiva gave this name. Even today, many locals and scriptures still call it Kashi.

Q: What is the religious importance?
Varanasi is sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is believed to be the city where Lord Shiva lives. Dying here is said to grant moksha or freedom from rebirth. The Ganga river adds to its holiness. Important temples, ghats, and rituals make it a hub for pilgrims from across the world.

Q: What empires ruled Varanasi?
Over centuries, many empires shaped the city:

• Maurya and Gupta: Boosted trade and learning
• Mughals: Brought both destruction and revival
• Marathas: Rebuilt temples and restored faith
• British: Introduced modern education and infrastructure

Each left a mark. But the spirit of Varanasi never faded. Isn’t that what makes it timeless?

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Author: Alok Mishra
Alok Mishra is a seasoned SEO professional and a proud native of Varanasi. Born and brought up in the spiritual capital of India, he combines deep-rooted cultural knowledge with expert digital insight. Through his writing, Alok offers authentic, insider perspectives that bring the timeless essence of Varanasi to life for every reader.