BANARAS IN FRAMES: A TRIBUTE TO FAITH AND LEGENDS
The city of Banaras, also known as the “city of light,” is located on the banks of the sacred Ganga River. It represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
It is a place where people immerse themselves in life’s fullness; where God’s heart is said to reside; where life intertwines with death, and spiritual beliefs permeate every corner of the city. Let’s explore those sights and experiences with some incredible captures of the city.
The city’s principal deity, Lord Shiva, is revered as a symbol of creation, destruction, and time. Banaras is celebrated for its deep spirituality and rich cultural heritage. It is known for its vibrant arts and crafts and hosting numerous festivals. The city is a photographer’s dream, with countless opportunities to capture its historical and traditional narratives.
These feature photographs perfectly encapsulate the city’s essence — from its bustling riverfront and sacred rituals to its lively streets and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can have a glimpse of the true spirit of Banaras as they immerse themselves in these compelling images, showcasing a city whose mystique never ceases to amaze and inspire.
The rituals conducted here are imbued with a profound sense of dedication and simplicity, making it an essential event for those seeking a deep connection with Banaras’ spiritual essence.
The Ghats of Banaras tell us about the deep philosophy about human existence — the body is mortal, but the soul is eternal. Despite being aware of this, we often chase unattainable outcomes in our busy lives and rarely acknowledge this.
Manikarnika Ghat is the place where one can experience the cyclic nature of life — life and death. Here, it is apparent that death is the only reality and however hard one tries to escape it, they eventually have to pay a price for their actions. It serves as a reminder to ground ourselves in the realities of our existence.
The architecture of Banaras is truly remarkable, with distinct structures standing out amidst its congested lanes. A prime example of this is the Ratneshwar Mahadev temple, known for its leaning element. The unusual tilt of the temple is believed to have been caused by architectural damage, skewing it at a precarious angle, but despite that it is still standing. During monsoons and high tides, the temple is partially submerged due to the rise in the surging of the river.
These photographs offer silent witnesses to the city’s architectural and spiritual heritage. Each temple stands as an enduring symbol of faith, surpassing the individuals who find comfort and enlightenment within their confines.
In the portraits, children dressed as gods and goddesses embody the myths and legends that define the core qualities of Banaras. A young boy with his face painted blue embodies the mighty Lord Shiva, exuding a divine aura beyond his youth. Similarly, a little girl adorned with vibrant bindis becomes Parvati, embodying the grace and strength of a goddess. These images provide deeper insights into a city where pilgrimage becomes a soul journey and beliefs shape identities.
“Portraits of Sadhus in Banaras” illustrates the dynamic nature of the spiritual supporters of the sacred city, the Sadhus. These images depict the complex fusion of devotion, austerity, and mysticism that characterises the lives of these enlightened individuals through expressive and precise images.
The backdrop of Banaras, with its ageless ghats and hallowed ceremonies, highlights the deep link that exists between the Sadhus and the age-old spiritual traditions that they represent. It also provides depth and context. Every face in this series tells a tale of faith and renunciation, providing a visual excursion into the basis of Indian spirituality.
Overall photography is considered the best method of presenting the vibrant energy of the city, both in ordinary and exceptional instances. To create shared experiences, it focuses on connecting people and breaking down barriers. In the images, Banaras is represented as more than just a city — it is a significant representation of spirituality and a timeless example of the strength of faith. Every image provides a glimpse into a society in which beliefs are a tribute to the enduring force of the legends and mysteries that characterise Banaras, and faith demonstrates humility.
Text and Images by Shalini Passi
