The mystic realm of poetry and devotion

Welcome to Kabir Chaura, a magical neighbourhood in Varanasi that invites you on a journey to discover the life of great saint Kabir and his soul-stirring tales.

At the heart of this area lies the Kabir Chaura Math, or Kabir Math, which stands as a memorial built in honour of the great yogi, mystic and poet. Kabir Chaura Math is a canvas bringing to life the events that shaped the saint's extraordinary journey.

Beyond the tales of the great saint, Kabir Chaura is known as the ‘mohalla of musicians’ and has been the cradle of the renowned Banaras Gharana of music. Here, the air is filled with the musical notes and rhythms that have been passed down through generations.

As you step into Kabir Chaura, you witness not merely a neighbourhood, but a sacred sanctuary where spiritual enlightenment and artistic expression intertwine. Here, the labyrinthine lanes and echoing melodies invite you to delve deep into Varanasi's rich cultural heritage and soulful essence that also defines this enclave.

A legacy to carry within

Experience the essence of unity and reverence that defines Kabir Chaura, a sanctuary of spiritual and artistic expression. Embark on a journey through the locality, where the essence of Sadguru Kabir's teachings comes to life. Born in 1398 AD, Kabir's legacy reverberates through the streets, offering a glimpse into the history of spiritual exploration and cultural fusion. In the 15th century, he inspired a new era of non-scriptural God-affirmation and devotion, which shaped the Bhakti movement.

Kabir, known not only as a weaver but as a profound yogi, delved deep into the realms of consciousness to realise the divine essence within. As you wander through the winding lanes, discover the harmonious coexistence of Hindu and Muslim traditions, symbolised by the revered samadhi (shrine) and mazaar (tomb) dedicated to Kabir's memory.

The profound serenity of the sacred platforms

Within the Chaura, you will find Kabir's sacred Upadesh Sthal, which was once a platform for religious discourse that later evolved into the Beejak Mandir. Here, Kabir imparted the secrets of knowledge to his followers and undertook transcendental meditation to attain Beejak. Admire the statues of other spiritual luminaries from Kabir's era adorning the Beejak Mandir's platform.

Inside the complex are two other platforms, Kabir-Hut and Kabir Chabutara, where the saint engaged in discussions with his followers. Neeru Teela, resembling a temple, serves as the final resting place of Kabir's revered parents, Neeru and Nima. Moreover, you'll find a library, intricate sculptures, and an enchanting garden within the premises.

The fascinating complex of simplicity

In the Smriti Kaksh at Kabir Math, you'll find a fascinating exhibit showcasing Kabir's ancient and weathered khadau (wooden sandals), carefully preserved within a glass case. With both historical and archaeological significance, these sandals are revered and attract pilgrims and tourists alike, who journey annually to catch a glimpse of this iconic relic.

You'll be struck by this complex that uniquely blends elements of both a mosque and a Hindu temple. This sacred site is a place to honour the legacy of the revered saint. Kabir's couplets can be found in the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib. Legend has it that when Kabir passed away, a peaceful resolution emerged as his body transformed into a bed of flowers, and a divine voice guided the people to divide them equally between Hindus and Muslims.

The musical heritage thrives here!

As you wander through the narrow lanes of Kabir Chaura, enveloped in the timeless verses of Kabir, you're serenaded by the melodious strains of traditional Indian music. The gentle hum of the tanpura, the soulful melody of the harmonium, and the rhythmic beats of the tabla fill the air, echoing through the streets.

This neighbourhood is not only steeped in the legacy of saint Kabir but also holds deep roots in Indian classical music and the renowned Banaras Gharana. For centuries, Kabir Chaura has been a haven for classical musicians, particularly those belonging to the Kathak community.

There is a rich musical heritage of the locality, where illustrious artistes like Pandit Bade Ramdas, Harishankar Mishra, tabla player Samta Prasad, and vocalists Rajan and Sajan Mishra once resided and honed their craft.

Artistic endeavours of the past

Kabir Chaura once bustled with public and cultural events. Here, people congregated for special occasions, fostering community bonds. Music performances were a common feature during annual celebrations and at religious shrines.

The Gulab Bari festival, for instance, unfolded in an open-air theatre within the neighbourhood. Additionally, the baghs and bageechas, serving as summer retreats for the affluent, doubled as pleasure gardens hosting both private and public recreational activities. Within beautiful settings, music filled the air, whether in baradaris or on open platforms, fostering lively interactions between musicians and the residents of Kabir Chaura.

Kabir Chaura is located north of the Banaras Hindu University, near Kabir Chura Hospital, DAV Inter College, Adarsh Grounds and Gandhi Park. You can travel here easily as it lies about 2 km from the Varanasi and Kashi Railway Stations. Come to witness a timeless beacon of mysticism and artistic brilliance.