Author’s Note
The Indian government has recently begun cleaning the area around the Ganga river, and the water is clear and scintillating under the sunlight. I was able to meet individuals who tended to the river every morning, evening and at the rise of dawn, when it was still dark. For the last 30 years, most of my life was turbulent and I increasingly believed I had lost my way and was left confused in the dark. I have seen myself undergo many trials and tribulations and 30 years since I have been able to reach a place where I am happy with my personal growth and maturity. The Varanasi I first saw 30 years ago, seems to have also become a place that has regained its peace and tranquility 30 years later in 2020. I wrote this book for those who plan to visit Varanasi (today, someday) and for those who will be unable to visit Varanasi. In this aspect, I have tried to focus on providing narration and description of Varanasi and the philosophy that makes it such an attractive place for thousands of pilgrims each year, since time immemorial.
