Burning Ghats of Varanasi: Exploring the History, Significance, and Controversies

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, located on the banks of the river Ganges. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered as the spiritual capital of India. One of the most unique and intriguing aspects of Varanasi are its burning ghats, where the cremation of the dead takes place. These ghats, which are essentially a series of platforms made of stone or brick, are located along the banks of the Ganges and are considered to be one of the holiest places for Hindus to die and be cremated.

In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and cultural practices surrounding the burning ghats of Varanasi.

History

The history of the burning ghats of Varanasi can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed that Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction, founded the city more than 5,000 years ago. The city has always been considered a holy place, and the ghats along the river Ganges have been used for various religious and spiritual practices for centuries. The tradition of cremating the dead on these ghats dates back to at least the 17th century, when the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb banned the construction of new temples in the city. In response, the people of Varanasi began to use the ghats as a way to honor their dead, and the practice of cremation became more widespread.

Significance

The burning ghats of Varanasi are considered to be one of the holiest places in Hinduism. It is believed that dying in Varanasi and being cremated on the banks of the Ganges river can lead to salvation, or moksha, which is the ultimate goal of Hinduism. This belief is based on the idea that the Ganges river is a sacred river and that its waters have the power to purify the soul of a person who dies in its waters or is cremated on its banks. The ashes of the deceased are then scattered into the river, which is believed to help release the soul from the cycle of birth and death.

Cultural Practices

The burning ghats of Varanasi are a hub of cultural practices and rituals. The process of cremation typically begins with the body being wrapped in a white cloth and carried on a bamboo stretcher to the ghat. The eldest son or male relative then performs the last rites, which involves lighting the funeral pyre and reciting prayers. The cremation process can take up to six hours, depending on the size of the pyre and the amount of wood used. After the cremation, the ashes are collected and taken to the river, where they are scattered into the water.

Apart from the cremation process, the burning ghats of Varanasi are also a hub for other cultural practices and rituals. Pilgrims from all over India come to Varanasi to bathe in the Ganges river and perform various rituals, such as offering flowers and lighting candles. The ghats are also a place for religious festivals and ceremonies, such as the annual Ganga Aarti, which involves offering prayers and floating lamps on the river.

Controversies

Despite the religious and cultural significance of the burning ghats of Varanasi, there are some controversies surrounding them. One of the biggest controversies is the pollution caused by the cremation process. The burning of wood and other materials releases pollutants into the air, and the ashes and other materials can also pollute the river. Efforts have been made to address these issues, such as the use of cleaner-burning fuels and the installation of pollution control devices, but there is still much work to be done.

Another controversy surrounding the burning ghats of Varanasi is the exploitation of the grieving families. It is reported that some of the funeral service providers charge exorbitant prices for their services, taking advantage of the vulnerable state of the grieving families. This has led to calls for greater regulation of the funeral industry in Varanasi.

Final remarks

The burning ghats of Varanasi are a unique and significant cultural phenomenon that have been a part of the city’s history for centuries. They are a place of religious and spiritual significance for Hindus, and a hub for cultural practices and rituals. However, there are also controversies surrounding the ghats, such as pollution and exploitation of the grieving families. It is important to acknowledge and address these issues while also respecting the cultural and religious significance of the burning ghats of Varanasi.