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The antiquity of Varanasi is veiled in immortal time. An 'eternal' city, it abounds with a rich and vibrant past.Varanasi is another holy dot on the life giving Mother Ganges. As a religious centre, it is beyond compare. It is one of the foremost 'tirthas' (place of pilgrimage) Varanasi, as the legend goes was created by Shiva, the cosmic lord. It figures prominently in the epic Mahabharat. Puranic literature dates its existence to at least three millennia. Varanasi has been a great centre for learning and civilization and is sacred to the Hindus. It has an endearing universal mystique which has to be experienced to be understood. Varanasi's original name Kashi, is said to have been derived from the word 'Kasha' .meaning bright which defines its significance as the' city of light' or its spiritual luminance. The present name is believed to be a combination of Varuna and Asi, the two rivers on its northern and southern periphery. Benaras, as it is popularly known, is only a corruption of the name by an ever changing culture. But such is the invigorating strength of the holy waters of the Ganges, that Varanasi refused to die. However, Varanasi is most reputed for its silk brocade sarees and carpets. The Benarasi saree is more than a garment, it is sheer poetry in five yards of silk that comes to life with zari brocading in gold and silver and fine metal wires.

There is no Indian attraction like Varanasi. There are no architectural splendors, no exquisitely carved palaces or impregnable forts, and yet the city has an inherent charm. Situated on the west bank of the Ganges, it extends back from the riverbank ghats to a winding maze of picturesque alleys overlooking tall houses alongside, dotted with temple It is a fascinating area to wan around. Varanasi today, is also a centre of education, art and craft. The city has given birth to many academicians, musicians and artists of world acclaim. As a centre of art and craft it has a vast repertoire, right from silver, brass, copper artifacts to perfumeries and trinkets.