Mystery by the Ganges

Author: Lin Xuwen Er, Chen Shilan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: Varanasi, also known as Kashi, this ancient city called the "Enchanted City," is located on the middle course of the Ganges River in India and has a history of thousands of years. Although it has experienced rises and falls and endured wars, its cultural customs and religious life have remained almost unchanged. Everyone says it is a gold mine for anthropologists, a living fossil for sociologists, and a grand stage for religious scholars. The Ganges—the sacred river in the hearts of Indians—is said to be holy water bestowed by Lord Brahma to redeem the world. When it descends from heaven to the mortal realm, every place it passes through becomes a sacred site due to the purifying waters. Indians firmly believe that at least once in their lifetime, they must bathe in the Ganges to have their sins washed away by the sacred river, allowing their souls to be nourished and liberated. With the perspective of a cultural enthusiast, the author, as a traveler, presents to readers the mysterious and enchanting essence of India through delicate and fluent prose, complemented by exquisite and captivating images.