Kashi has always been renowned for its rich tapestry of music, arts, crafts and education. It is home to silk weaving, and produces the elegant Banarsi Silk Saree.
This is also the hub of the Benaras Gharana of the Hindustani classical music. And Varanasi is where the Banaras Hindu University stands.
The name Varanasi originates from the names of the two rivers Varuna, which still flows through Varanasi, and Asi, a small stream near the Assi Ghat.