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Benares, The Burning Gháts, Late 1860s. Creator: Samuel Bourne
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Benares, The Burning Gháts, Late 1860s. Creator: Samuel Bourne
Benares, The Burning Ghats, Late 1860s
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Media ID 36364496
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1860s Benares Uttar Pradesh India Bourne Samuel Cremation Ghat Ghats Hinduism Samuel Bourne Varanasi Uttar Pradesh India Waterfront
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Benares, The Burning Ghats, Late 1860s
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating and poignant photograph taken by British photographer Samuel Bourne during the nineteenth century. The image, an albumen print in black and white, depicts the sacred Burning Ghats of Benares, located on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, India. The Ghats are a significant geographical and cultural feature of the ancient city of Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, which holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The Ghats are a series of stone steps leading down to the riverbank, where cremations take place. The photograph captures the intense and solemn ritual of cremation, with several men in various stages of performing the last rites for their deceased loved ones. The bodies, partially clad in white, are being prepared for cremation, while others are already being consumed by the flames. The image offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of Hinduism, providing a window into the past and the deep-rooted beliefs and practices that continue to shape the lives of millions of people in India and beyond. The photograph also highlights the powerful connection between the people and the river, as the water of the Ganges is believed to have the power to cleanse the soul and bring salvation. This photograph, now housed in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, is a testament to the enduring allure of Benares and the Burning Ghats, which continue to draw pilgrims and tourists alike, seeking to experience the profound spiritual energy that permeates this sacred place. The hauntingly beautiful image invites us to reflect on the universal themes of life, death, and the human spirit, making it a timeless work of art that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries.
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