"Banaras is a Feeling": PM Modi Redefines the Essence of Kashi as a Living Experience Beyond Words

Prime Minister Narendra Modi describes Varanasi not just as a city, but as a "feeling that must be lived." Read how the PM highlights Kashi's unique blend of chaos, calm, tradition, and devotion

DALIMSS News Bureau | Varanasi

In a moving tribute to his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again captured the soul of the spiritual capital, describing Varanasi not merely as a geographical location, but as an emotion that defies description.

Addressing the unique character of the holy city, the Prime Minister remarked that "Banaras isn’t just a city you can describe in words or pictures; it’s a feeling that must be lived."

A City Revealed Through Experience The Prime Minister emphasized that the true essence of Kashi cannot be understood from a distance. It is a city that reveals itself only to those who walk its narrow lanes and breathe its air.

The Sensory Experience: From the timeless ghats of the Ganga and the echo of temple bells to the aroma of street food and the melody of music, every corner tells a story.

Chaos and Calm: He highlighted the city's beautiful contradiction—where the chaos of everyday life coexists with profound spiritual calm.

Tradition and Devotion: It is a place where ancient traditions are not museum exhibits but are woven into the fabric of daily life.

"Je Banaras Ke Jaanna Chahat Hau..." Echoing this sentiment during his recent interactions, including the inauguration of the 72nd National Volleyball Championship in the city, PM Modi used a local Banarasi saying: "Je Banaras ke jaanna chahat hau, uka Banaras aawe ka pari" (Whoever wants to know Banaras, has to come to Banaras).

He noted that visitors, whether they are pilgrims or athletes, eventually become part of this "living feeling," experiencing the hospitality and the "Ganga-Jamuni" culture that defines the city.

Connecting Heritage with Modernity While celebrating the timeless spirit of Kashi, PM Modi also reinforced his vision of "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi" (Development as well as Heritage). He pointed out that while the city retains its ancient soul, it is rapidly adopting modern infrastructure—from the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor to the new sports facilities at Sigra Stadium—ensuring that the "feeling" of Banaras is accessible to the world.

"To really know Banaras, you have to be here... experience its chaos and calm, tradition and devotion, all woven together in everyday life." — PM Narendra Modi