Varanasi

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Varanasi (Benares, Banoras) City on the River Ganges, Uttar Pradesh, n India. Hindus consider Varanasi to be the most holy city. Each year, it attracts millions of pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges. Buddha reputedly preached his first sermon nearby. Silk brocade, brassware, and jewellery are among the city's specialist industries. Pop. (2001) 1,100,748.

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