The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. The sound of chanting of mantras reverberating in the air during the ‘Ganga aarti’ in Varanasi turned into wails of people with the bang of an explosion . A bomb blast on the stairs of Shitla Ghat near the Vishwanath temple in this holy town during the evening ‘aarti’ left one dead and more than 20 persons injured. Deep Condolence to the family. God save India from enemies.
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{K:5780} 1/3/2011