The Varanasi Heritage Dossier/Karnataka Ghat

Detailed description of each heritage Site - Prabhu Ghat to Kedara Ghat

Karnataka Ghat

Location

25º 17.884’ North and 83º 00.446’ East (Ruru Bhairava at Karnataka Ghat).

Exact location on a map

Karnataka and Harishcandra Ghats

Area

0.29 ha

Historical/cultural/natural significance

Till the early 20th century, Karnataka (or Mysore) Ghat was part of the Hanuman Ghat; however, in 1915, the area was purchased by the Estate of Mysore (Karnataka) and developed as Ghat. There is a ‘pilgrims rest house’ (Dharamshala) by the estate where most pilgrims from south India, especially Karnataka State, get shelter. The stone slab lane divides the two ghats, i.e. Hanuman Ghat and Karnataka Ghat. On the bank side, in a stone niche (madhi), there are worn images of Sati and Ruru Bhairava. Ruru Bhairava is among the eight who guard the inner sacred territory of Kashi; his old, broken image was replaced by a new one about a decade ago.

Present state of conservation

Except for the Karnataka State Trust, which directly manages the palace and Dharamshala, there are no specific action plans, programmes, or strategies for the conservation and preservation of the ghats. The trust maintains its properties according to its own perspectives without specific plans.

Specific measures being taken for conserving the specific property

It is expected that by supporting active people participation, awareness to save the age-old rich heritage, and development under the Master Plan (and its judiciary control), the ghat heritage will be protected and conserved for the better benefit of the society.

Ownership

The respective temples, trusts, and residents own the specific properties along the Ghat, and the Municipal Corporation owns the Ghat area.