अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न (FAQs)
Who was Babua Pande and why is this ghat named after him?
Babua Pande was a prominent 18th-century Brahmin landlord, scholar, and master wrestler (Pahalwan) of Varanasi. In 1805 CE, he financed the construction of the solid sandstone steps and established an Akhara to promote traditional physical culture and spiritual discipline.
What is the traditional Akhara culture at Pande Ghat?
The Pande Akhara is a traditional earthen wrestling pit where young athletes train in classical Indian Kushti, exercising with heavy wooden clubs (Jodis), stone weights (Nals), and wrestling in consecrated red clay mixed with mustard oil and turmeric.
What temples are located at Pande Ghat?
The ghat houses shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman (the patron deity of Indian wrestlers) and Lord Shiva, worshipped by athletes every morning before beginning their rigorous training.
When was Pande Ghat constructed in permanent stone?
The ghat was paved in solid Chunar sandstone in 1805 CE and has been maintained by the Pande family trust and local residents ever since.
What is the walking connection between Pande Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat?
Pande Ghat is situated approximately 700 meters south of Dashashwamedh Ghat (an 8-minute scenic walk along the continuous stone river steps).