Manikarnika Ghat Makeover: Varanasi's Mahashmashan Gets Modern Facilities, Preserves Heritage

• Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is undergoing a 17.56 crore rupee transformation, funded by Rupa Foundation's CSR.
• The project includes a viewing gallery, ramps, seating, improved lighting, waiting rooms, toilets, and a vending zone.
• 18 cremation structures will be built (10 repaired, 8 new) to facilitate rituals with less wood, reducing pollution.
• Ancient temples like Vishnupaduka and Manikarnika Kund will be preserved, showcasing Kashi's eternal essence.
• The project, whose foundation stone was laid by PM Modi, aims to handle 100-150 cremations daily and support the Domraja family.

Why It Matters: Manikarnika Ghat is being modernized with new facilities while preserving its ancient heritage and rituals.