KTS 3.0: Tamil Nadu Students Visit Hanuman Ghat on the Second Day
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): On the second day of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0, a group of students from Tamil Nadu visited Hanuman Ghat. They took a holy dip in the Ganges, performed prayers, and sought blessings for prosperity and well-being. The scholars present at the event explained the historical significance of various ghats along the river.
After their ritual bath, the students visited ancient temples near the ghat, where they were given insights into the history, divinity, and grandeur of these sacred sites. Later, the Tamil guests visited the house of Subramania Bharati near Hanuman Ghat, where they met his family members. The students displayed keen curiosity, exploring the nearby library and learning about its significance.
Following their visit to Bharati’s residence, the student group proceeded to Kanchi Math, where they delved into its rich history. The young visitors were particularly excited to witness the South Indian architectural influence in Kashi’s temples.
Pandit Venkat Raman Ganapathi emphasized the deep-rooted connection between Kashi and Tamil Nadu, stating that this cultural exchange is not limited to just a fortnight but has existed for centuries. He highlighted that Hanuman Ghat, Kedar Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat are home to a mini Tamil Nadu, with thousands of South Indian families residing there. Specifically, Hanuman Ghat alone has over 150 Tamil households, where Tamil traditions and culture continue to thrive daily.
Pandit Venkat Raman Ganapathi further explained the significance of Prayagraj, Kashi, and Gaya in ancient Tamil scriptures. He elaborated that:
Prayagraj is associated with freedom from Atma Rinan (soul’s debt),
Kashi is linked to liberation from Deva Rinan (debt to the gods), and
Gaya is connected to absolution from Pitra Rinan (ancestral debt).
He noted that performing rituals like Mundan (tonsure) and Veni Daan (offering hair) are integral to this religious journey, culminating in Kashi Vaas (staying in Kashi for at least five days). During this period, pilgrims offer prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Mata Vishalakshi Temple, seeking divine blessings and ultimately aspiring for salvation (moksha).
