The Evolution of Banaras: A Century of Change

Imagine giving a newborn baby 1 billion dollars to spend on living to 100 years, allowing them to invest and earn a significant yearly income. This scenario showcases fantastic financial possibilities, yet history tells us that cities undergo similar transformations based on various socio-economic factors over time. One such city is Banaras, also known as Varanasi, a holy site in India that has seen significant changes over the past 100 years.

100 Years: Transformations in Banaras

Over the last century, Banaras has experienced several pivotal changes:

The advent of traffic lights and modern malls reflecting the change in infrastructure and urban development. An increase in migration rates for employment, highlighting the city's growing economic pull. Decrease in the width of the River Ganga, affected by natural factors and urban activities. The evolution of ghats into a prime tourist spot, indicating a rise in the tourism industry.

Historical Accounts of Banaras

Several historians and travelers have documented their experiences in Banaras over the centuries. One notable instance is the account of Peter Mundy, who visited in 1632. In his book "The travels of Peter Mundy in Europe and Asia 1608-1667 VOL 2," he praised Banaras for its architectural beauty and good streets but mentioned the dense population and occasionally congested narrow streets. He also highlighted the Kashi Vishwanath temple, an important Hindu site that had withstood the test of time.

A more recent account comes from the famous Indian Mahatma Gandhi. In 1916, he delivered a lecture at the Banaras Hindu University, critiquing the city's cleanliness and the disarray around the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Mahatma Gandhi emphasized the need for the city to reflect the cleanliness and hygiene mentioned in religious texts, which he believed were compromised in the surrounding areas.

Recent Developments: A City on the Revival Path

In recent years, efforts to improve the city's infrastructure and cleanliness have been underway. As of now, the ghats and main roads are cleaner than they have been in the last century. More roads are being constructed to better connect visitors to the city, illustrating a return to structured roads reminiscent of Peter Mundy's time. The Ganga Kashi Vishwanath corridor is being improved to better reflect the historical and spiritual essence of the Kashi Vishwanath temple, which Gandhi criticized for its state of neglect.

The revival of Banaras is crucial not only for the preservation of its spiritual and cultural significance but also to foster a modern, clean, and well-connected urban environment. As these developments progress, Banaras is on the path to regain its former glory, symbolizing a balance between modernity and heritage.

Conclusion

While the excitement and chaos of Banaras remain constant, the city is poised for a significant transformation. This evolution, critical for its future, highlights the intersection of tradition and progress. Whether you are drawn to its spiritual significance, architectural beauty, or the vibrant daily life, Banaras continues to offer a unique experience reflective of its long and storied past and promising future.

Note: A brief video collage of the city of Varanasi has been created during one of the author's trips, capturing the essence of this evolving city.