Uttar Pradesh: the Ghats of Varanasi

Said to have been founded by Lord Shiva himself, Varanasi is the oldest city in India, and possibly the world. It lies on the west bank of the Ganges, and identity as a centre of religion, learning and culture is entwined with that of the river.

Varanasi is most famous for its Ghats, of which there are nearly 100 leading from the town’s labyrinth like backstreets towards the Ganges. Hindu’s believe that dying in Varanasi allows release from the cycle of re-incarnations, known as Moksha, and consequently many come to Varanasi to die. Hospices are full of the sick and the dying, and shrouded bodies are frequently seen, carried at shoulder height on stretchers through the narrow streets. At the Manikarnika, or Burning Ghat , bodies are cremated before being thrown into the Ganges.

Despite the terrible pollution, the living also bathe in the waters, seeking remittance for their sins. Sadhus, cows, widows, priests, pilgrims and tourists bathe, pray and practise yoga side by side along the ghats, and in the evening, come together for the evening Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is the main Ghat in Varanasi and is said to have been created by Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva.

These photograph’s were taken between 28-30 October 2008 (Diwali) and 14-15 January 2011 (Makar Sankranti).