Manikarnika Ghat: Kashi situated in Uttar Pradesh is called the city of Mahadev, because Mahadev resides in every particle here. Therefore this city holds great importance for Hindu religion. Manikarnika Ghat is situated on the banks of river Ganga in Kashi, which is also called Mokshadayani Ghat or Mahacremation. It is said that pyres always burn here.

Manikarnika Ghat of Kashi is not just a ghat, but also a deep spiritual identity of Hindu religion and Indian culture. Generally people go to religious places to fulfill their wishes. But this is a place where people come not for wishes but for peace, liberation and salvation.

It is auspicious to die at Manikarnika Ghat.

Kashi city and the Manikarnika Ghat located here have been explained in detail in the Kashi section. Death at this place is considered auspicious. Here, by cremation the soul is freed from the cycle of life and death. According to the scriptures, the soul attains salvation by cremating the death in Kashi. This is the reason why people come here not for wish fulfillment but for peace and liberation of the self.

Maranam Mangalam Yatra Vibhutischa Vibhushanam
Kaupinaam yatra kauseyam sa kashi ken miyate.

In this verse of Kashi Khand, it is told that it is auspicious to die in Kashi. One who sacrifices his life in this city becomes free from the cycle of birth and death.

The fire of Manikarnika Ghat never extinguishes

The unique feature of Manikarnika Ghat is that the fire here never extinguishes. That is why it is also called ‘Akhand Agni’. It is said that, this fire is beyond the boundaries of time and reflects the mystery of life and death.

Deep mystery of Manikarnika Ghat

Regarding the origin of the name Manikarnika, it is said that the earring gem ‘Manikarn’ of Goddess Sati (Parvati) had fallen here, hence the name Manikarnika. According to the mythological story, this ghat is cursed by Mother Parvati, hence this ghat always keeps burning with pyres.

Why is Kashi’s Manikarnika Ghat Demolition in controversy?

These days there is a political turmoil at Manikarnika Ghat of Kashi. The video of removal of some statues and artefacts and debris during the ongoing renovation and redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat has gone viral on social media. These videos gave rise to political controversy. The video is also being said to be AI generated and fake. Although its investigation is going on.