Subah-e-Banaras Cultural Significance

Questions and Answers

What is the significance of sesame seeds in Varanasi during the winter season?

They are used to make colorful kites for Makar Sankranti

They are used to worship the holy Ganges

They are rich in oil which helps in lubricating joints and bones (correct)

They are used to make offerings to Lord Shiva

What is the usual time of year when Maha Shivratri is celebrated in Varanasi?

New moon in the Phalgun month, usually in February or March (correct)

Summer solstice in June

Winter equinox in December

January to mark the transition of the sun into Capricorn

What is the main attraction during the festival of Makar Sankranti in Varanasi?

The traditional delicacies like tilkut and tilpatti

The vibrant decorations on the ghats

The holy dip in the Ganges

The thousands of kites flying in the sky (correct)

What is the significance of sugarcane in the production of tilkut?

It is harvested during winter, when large quantities of tilkut are produced Signup and view all the answers

What is the destination of the marriage procession during Maha Shivratri?

From the Mahamrityunjay Temple to the Vishwanath Temple Signup and view all the answers

Which festival, described in the text, is most likely to be associated with the celebration of victory of good over evil, based on its historical and mythical context?

Nakkatayya Leela Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, which of the following best describes the common thread that connects the festivals described, beyond their cultural significance?

Each festival marks a specific time of the year, aligning with the Hindu calendar and its associated events. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the festivals described in the text involves a direct reenactment of a mythical story, complete with symbolic actions?

Nakkatayya Leela Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, which of the following best reflects the significance of the Ganga Mahotsav for Varanasi?

It's an opportunity to showcase Varanasi's cultural richness through various art forms. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately captures the essence of Dev Deepavali, as presented in the text?

It is a celebration of light, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the dispelling of darkness. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Subah-e-Banaras

Celebrated each morning at the banks of the Ganga, highlighting a communal appreciation for the sunrise.
The daily experience features the chanting of mantras and classical music, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi.
Rituals involve offering water to the rising sun while reciting the mantra Om Suryaya Namah, which symbolizes balance between body and mind.

Cultural Significance

Subah-e-Banaras is organized by the District Cultural Committee at Assi ghat, drawing large crowds each day.
Events include yoga, meditation, and classical music performances by young artists knowledgeable in their craft, given the discerning audience.

Tourist Attraction

Recognized as a must-visit for tourists, enriching their experience of Varanasi's cultural heritage.
The event reflects both tradition and modernity, fostering a connection with the city’s history and artistry.

Musical Heritage

Varanasi is home to the Banaras gharana, known for legendary artists such as Bismillah Khan (shehnai), Pandit Ravi Shankar (sitar), and Girija Devi (vocal).
The cultural fabric includes training in classical music through the guru-shishya tradition, ensuring the preservation of musical skills.

UNESCO Recognition

The city of Varanasi has been designated as a "City of Music" by UNESCO due to its profound musical heritage.
The relationship between music and spirituality is highlighted through bhajans and classical performances that resonate deeply with both locals and visitors.

Historical Context

Varanasi's narrow lanes, like Kabir Chauraha, commemorate its musical legends by preserving their homes, further enriching the city’s cultural narrative.

Daily Life in Varanasi

Mornings begin with a tranquil breeze, fresh ginger tea, a newspaper, and a holy dip in the Ganges.
Breakfast typically includes local delicacies like kachori-jalebi, reflecting the vibrant culture of Varanasi.
The city is notable for celebrating life with various occasions and festivals, showcasing a spectrum of colors and activities.

Festivals in Varanasi

Makar Sankranti in January marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn, celebrated by flying kites enthusiastically from roofs, roads, and boats.
Traditional Foods:
- Tilkut, a sweet made from ground sesame seeds and jaggery, is popular in winter due to its health benefits, particularly for joints and bones.
Maha Shivratri honors the wedding of Lord Shiva, celebrated on the new moon in the Phalgun month, involving temple decorations and offerings like milk, honey, and flowers.
The festival also commemorates Lord Shiva’s acts during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).

Cultural Events

Nakkatayya Leela: A mid-October enactment symbolizing victory over evil derived from the Ramayana, featuring a dramatic portrayal of Lakshman's slaying of Surpanakha.
Bharat Milap Festival: Held after Dussehra, it honors the reunion of Ram, Lakshman, Bharat, and Shatrughan, attended by the Kashi Naresh and attracts large crowds.

Ganga Mahotsav

Conducted on the eleventh day of Kartik month, the five-day Ganga Mahotsav highlights Varanasi's rich culture through drama, dance, and music.
Notable artists such as Ustad Bismillah Khan, Girija Devi, and Zakir Hussain have performed during this festival, showcasing the city’s artistic heritage.
Dev Deepavali: Celebrated on Kartik Purnima, honors Lord Shiva's victory over Tripurasura, with rituals including bathing in the Ganges and lighting earthen lamps.

Description

Explore the cultural significance of Subah-e-Banaras, a daily ritual at Varanasi's Assi ghat, which includes chanting mantras and classical music, symbolizing balance and harmony. Learn about its communal appreciation and spiritual ambiance.