Vaisnava Contribution to Varanasi

by R.C. Sharma and Pranati Ghosal

Varanasi, the abode of Lord Siva has also embraced other sects including Vaisnavism.  If Siva is Nataraja or Natesa, Krsna is known as Natavara dancing with gopies. 

There are traditions which reveal that Kashi was once a Vaisnava stronghold.  In the medieval period many Vaisnava saints from different quarters thronged to Varanasi to preach and popularise their faith. 

The book projects the Vaisnava contribution to Varanasi in literature, sculptural and other artistic renderings, visual and performing arts, temples,  festivals and ceremonies.