Manikarnika Ghat in Kashi is undergoing a significant transformation. Amidst the construction activities, allegations of demolition have stirred up controversy, with Congress attacking the BJP government over it. On Saturday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Varanasi, remarking that 'some people are defaming Kashi'. Meanwhile, the UP government has revealed images of the proposed new look of Manikarnika, offering a glimpse into the future of this 'Great Crematorium'.
The platform at Manikarnika Ghat is set to be significantly expanded to accommodate world-class facilities for simultaneous cremations. The government is poised to recreate the ghat with a fresh vision. Pictures of the project reveal what the rebuilt ghat may look like post-transformation.
Source: aajtak
An Allocation of 350 Million Rupees
Currently, accessing Manikarnika Ghat involves maneuvering through narrow lanes, where cremation facilities were in poor condition and surrounded by filth. However, PM Modi had incorporated the revitalization of Manikarnika Ghat, adjoining the Kashi Corridor project, into his vision for the area. The first phase of redevelopment has already been funded with an allocation of 350 million rupees, promising a rejuvenated site soon.
Manikarnika: The Eternal Flame
It is believed that the funeral pyres at Manikarnika Ghat never extinguish, blazing 24/7 throughout the year. The ash rising from these continuous cremations reaches as far as the corridor, attracting a large number of devotees and tourists. With the corridor now bordering the ghat, the need for its renovation was felt. Yet, chaos ensued after a platform's demolition as it housed several statues. The government is now reconstructing it in a novel manner.
Source: aajtak
'Some are Defaming Kashi'
During his visit to Varanasi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a press conference at the Circuit House, stating that some individuals are deliberately attempting to defame Kashi. He recalled that conspiracies had similarly surfaced when the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project began. The same detractors are now sharing images of damaged statues on social media, propagating the false narrative of statue demolitions, which, according to him, is a blatant lie.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Kashi has gained a new global identity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has continually stressed the importance of preserving Kashi's ancient heritage while presenting it in a new form to the country and the world. This philosophy has driven substantial development work in Kashi over recent years.
Congress Targets Government
Ajay Rai, UP Congress President, stated, 'The Modi-Yogi government has dismantled the legacy of the nation, Kashi, and Hinduism. A mall has been created under the guise of a corridor, and numerous temples around Kashi Vishwanath ji have been demolished. The revered banyan tree is gone, and the temple of Lakshmi Narayan ji on the touchstone was dismantled. In 2023, instead of recognizing Manikarnika Ghat, it has been destroyed.'
'Erasing Historic Heritage is a Grave Sin'
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her views, stating, 'Bulldozing Manikarnika Ghat in Banaras has devastated age-old religious and cultural heritage. While Manikarnika Ghat's sanctity is integral, it also holds memories of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar ji. Eradicating the religious and historical landmarks for commercial interests under the guise of development is a grave sin. Numerous century-old temples in Banaras have already been demolished under similar renovation claims. The conspiracies to erase Kashi's religious, spiritual, and cultural identity must be halted immediately.'
