For centuries, the great city of Banaras has symbolized faith, enlightenment, and devotion for over a billion Hindus worldwide. For devotees, Banaras is the holiest place on Earth—a city where the sacred Ganga washes away one’s sins, temple bells echo through every alley, and the divine looks over the rest of us. But Banaras is not how this city was originally known. It was first called Kashi, before evolving into the thriving cultural hub of Banaras and finally adopting its modern identity as Varanasi.
So why does this one legendary city have three distinct names that are all still relevant simultaneously? What do they signify, and how have they shaped its legacy?
This blog unravels the untold story behind these names, tracing their origins and meanings—from the divine glow of Kashi to the vibrant life of Banaras and the sacred geography of Varanasi.
This holy city in eastern Uttar Pradesh has been known by three names over the centuries: Kashi, Banaras, and Varanasi. Each name carries a distinct legacy, shaped by spiritual beliefs, cultural evolution, and historical influences. Some names are deeply rooted in ancient scriptures and mythology, while others emerged through linguistic and societal transformations. But what do these names truly signify, and why do they continue to coexist? Let’s uncover the meaning and significance of each.
With a name predating history itself, Kashi has been revered as a sacred beacon of enlightenment and salvation for millennia. It is said to be a place beyond time, where the divine presence is most palpable and liberation is within reach.
The name Kashi originates from the Sanskrit root "Kāś," meaning "to shine" or "to illuminate." This city, according to Hindu tradition, has been a center of spiritual wisdom and enlightenment since time immemorial. Ancient scriptures like Rig Veda describe Kashi as a place blessed by the gods, where seekers come to transcend earthly bonds and attain the highest knowledge. It is believed that Kashi is not just a city, but an eternal realm beyond worldly destruction.
Hindu tradition holds that Lord Shiva himself resides in Kashi, making it unlike any other place on Earth. According to legend, those who die here are granted moksha—liberation from the cycle of rebirth—because Shiva himself whispers the Taraka Mantra into their ears, ensuring their soul’s passage to freedom. The city is often referred to as "Avimukta Kashi", meaning "the place never abandoned," signifying Shiva’s eternal presence here. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, stands as the city’s spiritual heart, where thousands gather daily to offer prayers to the “Lord of the Universe”.
Unlike Banaras and Varanasi, which evolved through cultural and geographical shifts, Kashi has remained timeless. It is not just a name but an idea, a belief, and a spiritual calling. Even today, those speaking of the city’s divine essence refer to it as Kashi—a place where the soul finds its final rest in the embrace of the divine.
Banaras is more than just a name—it is a living tradition. This is the city of poets, musicians, and scholars, where art and philosophy have flourished for centuries. While Kashi symbolizes divine radiance, Banaras reflects the cultural heartbeat of India.