March 31, 2012
History of Varanasi
Varanasi was
known as Kashi Kshetra in the Rigvedic texts. Since the ages it has been
regarded as one of the important Pilgrimage centers for Hindus, Jains and
Buddhists. The place was formed into an independent city during 18th
century.
The earliest mention of the city
could be found in Rigveda. Then the great epics of India (The Ramayana and The
Mahabharata) talk about this place. Buddha gave his sermon at Saranath which is just 10 m away from Varanasi. The 23rd
Tirthankara of Jainism (Parsvanatha) was born here.
From 11th to 17th
century Varanasi was under the capture of the Muslim rulers. The city saw a
setback during this time due to the invaders. Kingdom of Kashi was established
during 18th century. Under the British rule Varanasi was made a
separate State in 1910, making Ramanagar its headquarters. The Kashi Naresh is
a title of honor bestowed upon the king. Kashi Naresh is the supreme power
concerning ritualistic activities there. He stays in Ramanagar fort. The then Kashi Naresh raja Balwant Singh
built this fort. After Independence, Varanasi merged with the Indian
Union.
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