ANCIENT VARANASI: An Archaeological Perspective

Varanasi is not only one of the oldest living cities of the world, but is also a model reflecting a comprehensive picture of our rich cultural heritage. The undisrupted occupation of Kashi region since ancient times till this date, played a vital role in the make up of modern Varanasi. The unique qualities of this settlements raise a number of questions, like, how old is Varanasi? What are the factors which helped this city to continue till today, particularly when other old cities on the banks of the Ganga died out? Also, why did Lord Buddha select peripheral region of Varanasi, Sarnath, for delivering his first sermon, particularly when he attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya? It is on record that he was well conversant with Rajgriha, Pataliputra and other places of Bihar. And since when Saivism became an integral part of the Varanasi culture? All these questions are deeply rooted in the history of this holy city, which are attempted in this book on account of the archaeological findings