Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of

KARC Journal Transition

• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR

VARANASI'S MANIKARNIKA GHAT: THE LANDSCAPE OF

TRANSITION
Saraniya RAJAN
e-mail: saraniyarajan2019@kmeacoa.ac.in

Mahalakshmi R NAIR
e-mail:mahalakshmir2019@kmeacoa.ac.in

Abstract. This research paper explores the multifaceted cultural layers of Varanasi,
one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Through an
interdisciplinary approach, it delves into the diverse religious, historical,
architectural, and social dimensions that shape the city's identity. Drawing on
historical records, religious texts, architectural studies, and ethnographic accounts,
the paper unravels Varanasi's rich tapestry of festivals, rituals, sacred sites, and
community practices. By examining the interplay between tradition and modernity,
the paper offers insights into how Varanasi's cultural heritage continues to evolve,
contributing to its enduring significance as a spiritual and cultural hub in India.

Key words: Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi, Cultural layers, Cremation, Dom

community, Ahori, Festivals, city, people, history, ganga, Kashi Khanda, temples

1. Introduction and liberation from the cycle of rebirth,

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, holds a
sacred status for Hindu cremations. Throughout
history, cremations in Varanasi have taken place
on open-air wooden pyres, where the body is
traditionally incinerated using wood. These
open-air ceremonies transpire on stepped
platforms lining the banks of the revered River
Ganges, which gracefully flows through Varanasi.
Locally, these platforms are known as "Ghats,"
with the Manikarnika Ghat standing as the oldest
and most renowned.However, the increasing
prevalence of open-air cremations is giving rise to
several challenges, notably related to pollution,
hygiene concerns, overcrowding, and congestion.
commonly known as ‘Mukti Ka Sthaan’. In
pursuit of this spiritual goal, numerous Hindus in
the final stages of life journey to Varanasi, where
they await their passing. Upon death, they are
then cremated at the Manikarnika Ghat.
Regrettably, due to the high volume of daily
cremations at this Ghat, the relatively limited
space becomes congested with mourners and
cremation workers, leading to issues of
overcrowding and hygiene concerns.

When contemplating the Hindu tradition of

cremation, one's thoughts naturally gravitate
towards Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat. This
research project centers around the "Great
Cremation Ground (‘Mahasmashana’ - Maha= Fig .1 manikarnika ghat , varanasi
great, smashana = cremation ground), considered
the most sacred site for Hindus seeking salvation 2. Aim and objectives
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 • KARC Journal• Vol. I • Feb• 2024
This paper seeks to analyze the cultural strata
inherent to Manikarnika Ghat,one of the oldest
and most significant cremation ghats in Varanasi,
India.
Towards this intention, the central research
question is formulated as:
What are the cultural layers of Manikarmika
Ghat?
and subsequently, the sub research questions are:
1.Main festivals of Manikarnika ghat ?
2.Flow of people affecting practices of ghats ?
3.cultural and historic influences ?
Based on the research questions mentioned above,
the aim of the paper is: Explore the Concept of
Death in Hindu Mythology and its Influence on
Varanasi's Cultural Heritage and the objectives
are:
● Acknowledging the profound connection
between death-related stories, customs,
and beliefs in Hindu mythology, this
study highlights the significance of the
ghats in Varanasi to the city's cultural
legacy.
● Emphasizing the city's historical depth,
these ghats become a captivating
destination for those intrigued by
spirituality and history, offering a unique
blend of architecture, historical rites, and
folklore.
3. Literature review
For Hindus, Manikarnika Ghat is a sacred place
where cremations are performed, and it has great
religious significance. Its significance in history
and culture is immense, since cremation at this
ghat is said to guarantee freedom from the cycle
of rebirth. ( Ram, A. (n.d.). Re-thinking the
Manikarnika Ghat.)
The core beliefs about the Manikarnika Ghat are
listed below.
• At the final departure, the body should be
surrounded by the five elements (called the
“Pancha Bhootas” in Hinduism). These five
elements are Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Space.
• The alignment of the funeral pyre should be in
the North-South direction. The Hindu God of
Death – Yama, is believed to come from the South
to drag away the dead.
• Doms crack the skull (Kapal-kriya) towards the
end of the cremation, symbolizing the soul's
release from the confines of the physical body.
2
• Wood prepared and given by a Dom is
considered auspicious and should be used to allow
the dead to travel on the path of salvation.
• Doms are the fire keepers, and they give the fire
to light the pyre during the cremation. . ( Ram, A.
(n.d.). Re-thinking the Manikarnika Ghat.)
The socioeconomic complexity of the ghat is
highlighted in the paper. For many populations
involved in the cremation process, such as priests,
cremators, and laborers, it provides a means of
subsistence. Nonetheless, these populations
frequently experience exploitation and economic
inequality. The discharge of non-biodegradable
debris and cremation ashes has contaminated the
Ganges River, posing serious environmental
problems for Manikarnika Ghat (construction and
transformation of a sacred city:Varanasi of
Religioscape.pdf). These problems endanger the
health of locals and visitors in addition to having
an impact on the ecosystem. The study
emphasizes how critical it is to update
Manikarnika Ghat's infrastructure and cremation
procedures in order to solve environmental issues
and protect the public's health and safety. This
entails using environmentally friendly cremation
techniques, managing waste appropriately, and
making infrastructure upgrades. ( Ram, A. (n.d.).
Re-thinking the Manikarnika Ghat).
According to the publication, Manikarnika Ghat is
a hive of activity where cremation rites are carried
out nonstop. It draws attention to the constant
stream of visitors,both pilgrims and locals,who
come to the ghat to watch the ceremonies or carry
out final rites, adding to the vibrant ambiance of
the place. The study explores the economic
dynamics surrounding Manikarnika Ghat through
observations and interviews. It highlights the
economic connection within the society by
examining the livelihoods of numerous people
involved in the cremation process, such as priests,
cremators, and workers. The research examines
the spiritual experience that guests of
Manikarnika Ghat can have. It explains how the
atmosphere of the ghat and the rites carried out
foster a deep sense of spirituality and reflection in
visitors, making a lasting impression. The study
tackles environmental issues related to
Manikarnika Ghat while acknowledging its
spiritual significance and rich cultural heritage. In
order to maintain the sacredness of the Ganges
River and the surrounding ecology, it draws
attention to problems like pollution and waste
management and emphasizes the necessity of
sustainable practices. Manikarnika Ghat appears

KARC Journal
as a microcosm of the social fabric of Varanasi, a
place where individuals from all walks of life
congregate to engage in rituals, communicate, and
build relationships. The ghat promotes a sense of
solidarity and community among its patrons by
acting as a melting pot for various cultural
backgrounds. (PDF) [624.21-RB]. Singh, Rana
P.B. (2021), professor R.B.
SiSingh,..)(construction and transformation of a
sacred city:Varanasi of Religioscape.pdf)
3 Methodology
The methodology devised to investigate the
various questions formulated in this paper is as
follows:
SRQ1: How does the cultural and historical
background influence the function of
Manikarnika ghat ?
Methods adopted:A detailed literature assessment
was carried out in order to obtain a
comprehensive comprehension of particular issues
within the larger research topic. This required a
thorough analysis and comparison of relevant
academic publications and research articles, such
as those based on Manikarmika Ghat of Varanasi
and different self-study projects, before looking at
Rapoport's studies on house form and culture. Our
understanding of how to assess the several
Manikarnika ghat layers has been strengthened by
the review.
The final response to the query was also
formulated with assistance from a variety of news
stories.
SRQ2: How does the flow of people affect the
practices of Manikarnika Ghat? Why do people
love to visit Varanasi?
Methods adopted: Analyzed relevant academic
publications, books, and online resources
pertaining to the history, religious significance,
and cultural practices associated with
Manikarnika Ghat. CI consulted historical
records and documents related to the ghat's
development and evolution through people's
participation through these years and also
analyzed how traditions and culture evolved .
We observed the ghat's ceremonies, rituals, and
everyday activities to obtain a greater grasp of its
3
Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of
Transition
• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR
cultural dynamics. This allowed for a thorough
analysis of how the locals reacted to various
aspects of the location and the Manikarnika Ghat.
SRQ3. What role does Manikarnika Ghat play
during the big festivals like Mahashivaratri?
What aspects of the spiritual practices and beliefs
do they reflect?
Methods adopted: A framework for
examining the complex importance of
Manikarnika Ghat during Mahashivaratri is
provided by this study methodology. It
provides a comprehensive knowledge of the
spiritual practices, beliefs, and social
dynamics entwined with this singular cultural
event by fusing qualitative and quantitative
methodologies. focus of the study is on
various research papers, statistics, and
questionnaires
Data types:
We frequently consult academic publications and
research articles, Rapoport's studies on house
form and culture, news articles, statistics, and
questionnaires in this research paper in order to
gather first-hand knowledge from study
participants. These methods are intended to elicit
specific answers or to collect viewpoints and
firsthand accounts on subjects related to the study.
This aids in our comprehension of people's
beliefs, attitudes, and actions, all of which are
important for accomplishing the objectives of our
research.
Fig 1
(https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/
in-kashi-dead-wait-turn-for-last-rites/articleshow/
53839492.cms.)
 • KARC Journal• Vol. I • Feb• 2024
Challenges faced:
Due to time constraints, the study solely relies on
existing data sources (secondary data) instead of
gathering new information directly from
individuals or stakeholders (primary data).The
absence of direct observation and interaction with
the research subject in their natural environment
limits the depth and richness of the understanding
gained
4 Results
Varanasi contains intricate and intertwined
cultural layers and these layers are the aspects that
contribute to its unique identity. The Manikarnika
Ghat, situated along the sacred Ganges River in
Varanasi, holds profound significance in Hindu
mythology and cultural tradition. Known as the
"great cremation ground," it is believed to be
where Lord Shiva guides departing souls towards
salvation, embodying a sacred site for cremation
rites.
I am Vishwanatha, the Lord.
Kashi is the Light of Liberation.
The waves of the River of Heaven are the wine
of immortality.
What can these three not provide?(Gohil, 2020)
Fig 2 Ram, A. (2021). Re-thinking the
Manikarnika Ghat: Explanatory document.
4
The excerpt is from the Kashi Khanda, a section
of the ancient Skanda Purana that extols the
convergence of three elements: the Ganga River,
Varanasi, and the Vishwanatha Temple. This
ancient text emphasizes the significance of these
elements, which hold a prominent and revered
place in Hindu belief and practice in India.
4.1 History
According to scripture, the name 'Manikarnika'
originated when the 'Mani' from Shiva and the
'Karnika' from Parvati slipped and fell into the
bathing Kund. In the broader context of
Manikarnika, Shiva's decision to uphold the duty
of granting salvation is significant. It is believed
that at this ghat, Lord Shiva personally guides the
departing souls towards salvation by uttering the
"Taraka Mantra '' into their ears. This belief forms
the essence of the ghat, rendering it a sacred site
for cremation.(Gohil, 2020)
According to another account, Mata Sati
immolated herself when Raja Daksh Prajapati,
one of Lord Brahma's sons, attempted to disgrace
Lord Shiva during a Yagnya ceremony. Lord
Shiva then carried Mata Sati's body towards the
Himalayas, where her body began to scatter on the
earth. Shakti Peeth, revered places dedicated to
the divine Sati/Shakti, was subsequently
established at each location where her body parts
fell. The Manikarnika Ghat, often called the
"Maha Smashaan" or the "great cremation
ground," stands prominently along the holy
Ganges River in Varanasi . This ghat is home to
one of Varanasi's most significant cremation
grounds and the sacred tank where Lord Vishnu is
said to have performed his cosmic austerities.
Positioned roughly midway along the Ganges, it
marks a pivotal point between the Assi and Ganga
confluence to the south, delineating the city's
southern boundary, and the Varuna and Ganga
confluence to the north marking its northern
boundary. (Manikarnika Ghat - Kashi Banaras,
2021)
4.2 Historic layout
The Manikarnika Ghat, mentioned in the Matsya
Purana dating back to the 6th-7th century, is one
of the five sacred water spots. It holds cultural
significance as a convergence point of Shaiva and
Vaishnava traditions. According to legend, Vishnu
meditated at this site in a standing pose for around
500,000 years to appease Lord Shiva, who

KARC Journal
eventually settled there. The ghat is also referred
to as the "great cremation ground" and has been
described vividly in the Kashi Khanda. Historical
records indicate its presence as far back as the
Gupta period, with stone stairs constructed in
1303 and later rebuilt in 1730 by Bajirao Peshva.
Queen Ahilyabai Holkar undertook
comprehensive reconstruction of the ghat in 1791,
and further renovations were carried out in 1872.
In 1965, the government of Uttar Pradesh initiated
repairs and reconstruction efforts.
The Manokameshvara Temple was constructed in
1895 by Maharaja Mangal Singh of Alwar Estate,
Rajasthan, atop his residential quarter. The temple
consists of a half-sanctum, half-pavilion, and a
rectangular mandapa, with intricately decorated
porches and images of Shiva, Ganesha, and
Parvati. Nearby, there is an open-air Maheshvara
linga, and a temple leaning into the Ganga, which
has remained unchanged since the early 19th
century. Close to it lies the Chakrapuskarini or
Manikarnika Kunda, a sacred water pool.
According to mythology, the pool was formed
when Vishnu's disc (Chakra) created it, and it is
also said to be where Shiva's crest-jewel (Mani)
and Parvati's earring (karnika) fell. The Kunda is
believed to be the world's first pool, filled with the
sacred water of Vishnu's sweat. A cast-iron railing
surrounds it and undergoes excavation and
reclamation each year after the Ganga recedes.
Queen Ahilyabai Holkar also commissioned the
Tarakeshwara Temple in 1795. The temple,
structured with six pillars at its base, houses an
image of Ganesha at the entrance and a
four-headed Shiva lingam in the inner sanctum.
The temple follows the Banaras style of
Panchayatana, featuring images of Surya, Durga,
Ganesha, and Vishe in the four corners.
Tarakeshvara is worshiped after cremation rites,
and it is believed to be a replica of a shrine north
of Kolkata. The nearby ghat, constructed around
1735 by Bajirao Peshva, remains unfinished due
to a landslide caused by its weight. Queen
Baijabai of Gwalior attempted repairs and
reconstruction in 1830, and she also built the
Ratneshwar temple in the Gujarati style on the
bank, which remains unfinished. Manikarnika
Ghat sees over 30,000 cremations annually, with
about 28,000 at the ghat itself and the remainder
at Harishchandra Ghat to the south. Cremation
typically consumes around 500 kg of wood per
body, with each corpse registered at a nearby
Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of
Transition
• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR
office before negotiations with the funeral priest
(Dom) for the sacred fire.
4.3 Significance
In India, cremation grounds are typically located
a on the outskirts or beyond human habitation, but
in Varanasi, the Manikarnika Ghat lies at the very
heart of the city. Just as India is considered the
navel of the world and Varanasi the navel of India,
the Manikarnika Ghat is regarded as the navel of
Varanasi.Upon entering from the southern end,
visitors encounter large piles of wood of various
types and qualities used for cremation purposes.
Moving further along, one reaches the cremation
platform where Dom workers and Purohits
perform their duties.
Continuing through the area, visitors can reach the
Manikarnika Kund, the original feature of this
ghat. Legend has it that this sacred tank was
created by Lord Vishnu during the primordial ages
of the planet. Today, the Manikarnika Ghat
facilitates up to 200 cremations per day.
· Fig 3 El Universo de la India: Obras Maestras
del Museo de Arte del Condado de Los Ángeles.
Santiago: Centro Cultural Palacio La Moneda,
2012.
According to ancient texts like the Matsya Purana
and Kashi Khanda, the ghat is a convergence
point of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions, marked
by the presence of the Vishwanatha Temple.
Legends recount how Lord Vishnu performed
cosmic austerities at this site, ultimately leading to
Lord Shiva's settlement there. Over the centuries,
the ghat has witnessed numerous reconstructions
and renovations, attesting to its enduring
significance. Surrounding the ghat are temples,
including the Manokameshvara Temple and the
Tarakeshwara Temple, each contributing to the
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 • KARC Journal• Vol. I • Feb• 2024
spiritual landscape of the area. These temples,
constructed in various architectural styles, serve
as active sites of worship, reflecting the rich
cultural tapestry of Varanasi. As a focal point for
both spiritual contemplation and ritual practice,
the Manikarnika Ghat embodies the timeless
allure and profound spirituality of Varanasi's
ghats.(Ziyi, L. (2018). Mythological narratives
and religious rituals: The pursuit of identification
(DIP Report). BANARAS. Prof. Dwarika Uniyal.)
4.4 Spatial Layers Of Mankarnika
Manikarnika Ghat stands as a distinct landmark,
distinguished by its billowing smoke, weathered
facades, and stacks of timber arranged both on
boats and along the waterfront. Its architectural
vocabulary comprises a repertoire of typical
elements bastions, balconies, alcoves, gateways,
pavilions, and platforms manifested in varied
sizes and materials, often combined in eclectic
compositions. These elements are arranged in an
irregular pattern, contributing to a dynamic visual
rhythm that harmonizes the intricate spatial
composition. The staircases, cascading down the
streets and from elevated structures, add a
compelling cadence to the urban fabric. During
the dry season, cremations take place on the
exposed silt bed, while the onset of monsoons
submerges the Ghat, necessitating the relocation
of cremation sites to higher ground. In times of
extreme flooding, the Ganga engulfs the temples
and shrines situated at lower elevations,
underscoring the dynamic interplay between the
river's fluctuating waters and the built
environment.
Fig. 4b.Understanding different layers of
Manikarnika Ghat (Ram, A. (n.d.). Re-thinking
the Manikarnika Ghat)
6
4.5 Festivals
Varanasi, a city steeped in spirituality and
tradition, hosts a diverse array of festivals that
showcase its rich cultural heritage and
deep-rooted religious significance. From the
solemn observances of Mahashivratri to the
vibrant revelry of Holi Mahotsav, each festival
brings together devotees and visitors in
celebration, prayer, and reflection along the sacred
banks of the Ganges River. These festivals serve
as a vibrant tapestry of communal joy, spiritual
awakening, and timeless traditions, offering a
glimpse into the heart and soul of this ancient city.
Festivals celebrated on the ghat are :
● 4.5.1 Mahashivratri: Celebrated in
honor of Lord Shiva, Mahashivratri is one
of the most significant festivals in
Varanasi. Devotees offer prayers to Lord
Shiva and seek his blessings for
prosperity and well-being. Special rituals
and ceremonies are conducted at temples
and ghats throughout the city.
Fig 4.1 TravelTriangle. (2019, December).
Maha Shivratri.
● 4.5.2 Ganga Mahotsav: Ganga Mahotsav
is a cultural festival celebrated along the
banks of the Ganges River. It showcases
the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi
through music, dance, art, and religious
ceremonies. The festival attracts artists,
performers, and tourists from all over the
world.
Fig 4.2 Haridwar_Ganga Dashara
Festival_2005
 Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of
KARC Journal Transition
• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR

● 4.5.3 Buddha Mahotsav: Buddha

Mahotsav commemorates the teachings
and life of Lord Buddha. The festival
includes prayer sessions, discourses on
Buddhism, meditation sessions, and
cultural performances. It aims to promote
peace, harmony, and spiritual awakening.

Fig 4.5 Holi Celebration in Bahraich.(2015,

February). Colorful Mahotsav India.

● 4.5.6 Nag Nathaiya Festival: Nag

Fig 4.3 Insights India. (2015, February).
Colorful Mahotsav India.
Nathaiya Festival is dedicated to the
divine serpent deity, Nag Devta. It
reenacts the mythological tale of Lord
Krishna subduing the venomous serpent
Kaliya. The festival includes dramatic
performances, processions, and rituals
honoring Nag Devta.

● 4.5.4 Ravidas Jayanti: Ravidas Jayanti is

celebrated to honor the birth anniversary
of Sant Ravidas, a revered saint and poet.
Devotees pay homage to Sant Ravidas by
organizing processions, bhajan sessions,
and distributing food to the needy. The
festival promotes the teachings of Sant
Ravidas and social equality.
Fig 4.6 Nag Nathaiya Festival

● 4.5.7 Kartik Poornima: Kartik Poornima

is celebrated on the full moon day in the
month of Kartik (November-December).
Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges
River and perform rituals to seek
blessings. The festival is also known for
the lighting of diyas (oil lamps) along the
riverbanks, creating a mesmerizing sight.
(Varanasi Smart City, n.d.)
Fig 4.4 The Economic Times. (n.d.). Sant
Ravidas Jayanti: Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi
serve langar at Varanasi’s Ravidas Temple.

● 4.5.5 Holi Mahotsav: Holi Mahotsav is a

vibrant festival celebrated with colors and
enthusiasm. It marks the arrival of spring
and the victory of good over evil. People
participate in colorful processions, play
with colors, and indulge in traditional Fig 4.7 Wikipedia. (n.d.). Dev Deepavali
music and dance performances. celebrations in Varanasi on Karthik Purnima.

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4.6 Rituals and Practices
The cremation at Manikarnika Ghat is intricately
intertwined with the history of the cremators,
known as the Doms. Cremation holds profound
importance for Hindus, as its purpose is to release
the soul from the cycle of karma and dharma,
ultimately leading to moksha.
Fig 5 Nag Nathaiya Festival(Must Do in Varanasi
| Incredible Varanasi, n.d.)
The ritual commences with the chanting of "Ram
Nam Satya hai" (Ram's name is the truth) by
mourners as they transport the deceased to the
cremation ghat. Upon arrival, the corpse, adorned
with a gold shroud, is immersed in the Ganga for
purification, followed by the chief mourner, with a
shaved head, taking a dip for purification as well.
Subsequently, the corpse is positioned on the
pre-prepared pyre by the Doms, with resin and
ghee added for efficient combustion. The chief
mourner then performs a ritual task of
circumambulating the pyre five times, lighting it
each time. These rituals are done by the Dom
community of Varanasi assuming a significant
role in the city's cultural and religious framework,
primarily owing to their traditional responsibility
for performing cremations along the sacred ghats
lining the Ganges River, notably at the
Manikarnika Ghat. This responsibility finds its
roots in mythology and historical narratives, as
the Doms are believed to have been entrusted with
this duty by Lord Shiva himself.(Rana, A. S.
(n.d.). DOMS OF BANARAS: A slavery, including himself to Kallu Dom, to fulfill
SOCIO-CULTURAL STUDY [Report]. )
Once the fire is ignited, a mixture known as the
Dashang, comprising ten substances, is cast into
the flames. The chief mourner is required to crack
open the skull and bones of the deceased using a
bamboo pole, symbolizing the liberation of the
soul from the body, dharma, and karma.
As the pyre nears completion, the chief mourner
carries an earthen pot filled with Ganga water on
8
his shoulder and throws it down onto the pyre
with his back facing it, symbolizing the severance
of lingering attachments to the deceased. Finally,
the Doms collect the ashes and remaining bones,
immersing them in the Ganga.
These rites and rituals, described by Mcbride
(2014), encapsulate the sacred process of
cremation at Manikarnika Ghat, embodying the
Hindu belief in the cyclical nature of life and the
liberation of the soul.
4.7 Dom community
The Dom community of Varanasi assumes a
significant role in the city's cultural and religious
framework, primarily owing to their traditional
responsibility for performing cremations along the
sacred ghats lining the Ganges River, notably at
the Manikarnika Ghat. This responsibility finds its
roots in mythology and historical narratives, as
the Doms are believed to have been entrusted with
this duty by Lord Shiva himself.
Fig . 6 Dom Raja (Austa, 2015)
The responsibility of cremation fell under Dom's
purview due to a myth narrated by Jagdish
Chaudhary, the current Dom Raja. According to
the myth, Shiva cursed the Dom community for a
theft that occurred while Parvati was bathing in
the Kund in Kashi. To gain forgiveness, the Doms
agreed to become the keepers of the sacred flame,
believing that only the fire offered by them could
grant Hindus moksha. Another myth involves
King Harishchandra, who sold his family into
a sage's demand. Despite realizing that his son
was to be cremated, Harishchandra refused to
break the rules of the cremation ground. For his
adherence to dharma, he attained moksha, and
Kallu Dom was granted entry into heaven due to
his association with Harishchandra. The Doms
take pride in their role as cremators, viewing it as
a duty assigned by Shiva, believing it to be their
karma and a blessing from Shiva. They are deeply
connected to their myths and history, which

KARC Journal
strengthens their identity(Manikarnika Ghat -
Kashi Banaras, 2021)
4.8 Aghori
The Aghori community of Varanasi has a rich
history deeply embedded in the cultural and
socio-economic fabric of the region. Historically,
the Ahoris were associated with various practices,
including agriculture, fishing, and trade, which
contributed to their socio-economic condition.
originating from the region of Awadh, the Ahoris
migrated to Varanasi and settled primarily in the
areas surrounding the city. Over time, they
developed their distinct identity and customs,
often centered around their traditional occupations
and religious practices.
Economically, the Ahoris have faced challenges,
particularly due to the changing dynamics of
Varanasi's economy and urbanization. Traditional
occupations like agriculture and fishing have
become less viable, leading many Ahoris to seek
alternative livelihoods in urban areas. However,
socio-economic disparities persist within the
community, with some Ahoris experiencing
poverty and marginalization.
Fig .7 (Mohan, 2018) Aghori
Additionally, the Ahoris have historically faced
social stigma and discrimination, which has
hindered their socio-economic progress. Despite
these challenges, efforts have been made to
empower the community through education, skill
development, and social welfare programs.
In recent years, there has been a growing
recognition of the cultural significance of the
Ahori community, leading to initiatives aimed at
preserving their heritage and promoting
socio-economic development.
9
Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of
Transition
• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR
5 Discussions
The central research question focused on
exploring the functional layers of manikarnika
ghat Manikarnika Ghat, cradled on the banks of
the holy Ganges in Varanasi, pulsates with a
unique energy. It's a place where history whispers
through ancient stones, where vibrant cultural
threads intertwine, and where the cycle of life and
death unfolds in an eternal dance. To understand
Manikarnika Ghat is to delve into a complex
tapestry woven with threads of faith, tradition, and
the challenges of the modern world.
5.1 Echoes of the Past
Manikarnika Ghat has a centuries-long heritage
steeped in myths and stories. Some think Shiva
burnt Sati here, while others trace it back to the
Pandava dynasty. Whatever its origins, the ghat
has served as a final resting place for innumerable
lives, witnessing the rise and fall of empires and
the continuing strength of Hindu belief.
5.2 A Culture Steeped in Rituals
Manikarnika Ghat is more than just a cremation
site; it represents a microcosm of Hindu culture.
The pyres, perfectly oriented north-south,
represent the soul's journey to Yama, the God of
Death. Doms, who are charged with the sacred
task of cremation, play an important role in these
rites, with their chants and practices reverberating
throughout the ghat's atmosphere.
5.3 Festivals and Celebrations
Manikarnika Ghat comes to life during holidays
such as Shivaratri and Diwali. The ghat changes
into a kaleidoscope of colour and light, with
devotees flocking to its banks to worship and
perform age-old rituals. The air is filled with
chants, devotional music, and the perfume of
incense, creating an atmosphere of reverence and
joyful celebration.
5.4 Beyond the Spiritual
However, beyond the spiritual veneer is a layer of
intricate reality. Exploitation and economic
disparities affect people participating in the
cremation process, emphasizing the importance of
 • KARC Journal• Vol. I • Feb• 2024
equitable methods and infrastructure
improvements. Furthermore, pollution from pyres
and inappropriate waste management endangers
both locals' health and the Ganges' delicate
ecosystem.
5.5 Striking a Balance
Manikarnika Ghat is situated at a crossroads. The
task is to preserve its holy traditions and cultural
legacy while tackling severe social and
environmental issues. Sustainable practices,
enhanced infrastructure, and equitable resource
distribution are critical to the ghat's long-term
viability as a dynamic religious and cultural
center.
5.6 A Timeless Legacy
Despite its limitations, Manikarnika Ghat is
nevertheless a powerful symbol of Varanasi's
enduring vitality. It continues to attract pilgrims
and visitors from all walks of life, each looking
for peace, understanding, or just a glimpse into
the eternal traditions that unite this old city.
Manikarnika Ghat will exist as a tribute to the
enduring force of faith, tradition, and the human
spirit for as long as the pyres are lit and the
Ganges flows.
6 Conclusion
To summarize, Manikarnika Ghat is intricately
braided with layers of history, traditional
practices, and modern issues. While its historical
and cultural value is evident, it also addresses
social inequality and environmental issues that
require immediate action. Striking a perfect
balance between conserving ancient traditions and
tackling these real concerns is critical. Sustainable
methods, equitable resource distribution, and
infrastructure developments are critical to
sustaining the ghat's long-term viability as a
thriving center of religious, cultural legacy, and
tribute to Varanasi's enduring spirit. As the flames
of the pyres dance and the Ganges flows
endlessly, Manikarnika Ghat's legacy serves as a
reminder of the immense impact of faith,
tradition, and the human spirit in molding the
history of Varanasi.
Manikarnika Ghat is a spiritually and culturally
significant monument in Varanasi, with deep roots
in Hindu mythology and history. It is a venue
10
where cremation procedures are done with
dignity, as well as festivals and festivities that
honor the city's rich cultural legacy. However, in
addition to its spiritual significance, the ghat faces
environmental and economical issues,
emphasizing the importance of sustainable
practices and infrastructure improvements.
Despite these hurdles, Manikarnika Ghat remains
a symbol of spiritual awakening, societal
solidarity, and the never-ending struggle for
escape from the cycle of rebirth. The Manikarnika
Ghat in Varanasi is a cornerstone of Hindu
religious and cultural history, representing
significant significance in the cycle of life and
death.
7 Acknowledgment
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to
the faculty who provided invaluable support and
guidance throughout this research project on
"Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat: The Landscape of
Transition." Their expertise, mentorship, and
timely feedback greatly enhanced the quality and
completeness of our work.
Furthermore, we are deeply grateful to each
individual who contributed to this research in any
way. Your willingness to share your insights,
experiences, and perspectives proved essential in
shaping the study's direction, enriching its data,
and solidifying its conclusions.
To everyone who assisted us in this endeavor, we
offer our heartfelt thanks. Your contributions
made this research possible and significantly
enriched our understanding of Manikarnika Ghat.
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• S. RAJAN, M. R NAIR

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