Arts and culture

Our expert India

Arts and culture

Maharadjah Fort, Varanasi, India Located on the opposite bank of the Ganges River, this former fort dating from the 17th century was once the home of the Maharadjah. © Bruno Perousse

Varanasi is renowned for its university (the Benares Hindu University) that teaches Indian culture. At the heart of the vast campus garden, you can appreciate its museum, the Bharat Kala Bhavan with its miniatures, its terracotta sculptures from the 1st to the 15th Century, its bronzeware, silk goods and embroided shawls from Kashmir, including old photos of the city. Take yoga and Indian philosophy classes at the Malaviya Bhavan of the university.
At the museum of the Fort of the Maharaja of Benares on the other side of the river, enjoy the old palankeens and a collection of old swords and firearms.
for your evenings, go to one of the film halls in the city to watch a Masala movie. Go to classical music concerts at the International Music Centre Ashram close to Dasahwamedha Ghat, and watch other concerts at the Nagari Natak Mandali.