Amrit Rao Peshwa Palace
Mark Twain once said, Varanasi is "older than history, older than
tradition, older than legend, looks twice as old as all of them put
together." This is the city where vast riches of Indian music, art and
dance cultures took birth. And now, you can get an insight into this by witnessing a traditional cultural show at an authentic Brahmin
refectory that dates back to the Peshwa period of the 19th century.
At the Amrit Rao Peshwa Palace, you can watch rich old dances and music
such as the ancient Ahir dance performed by the cowherds, and kept alive by
them through generations.
A tour around the Amrit Rao Peshwa Palace gives the visitor an insight
into the Indian way of life. Benaras – oldest living city in the world
comes alive as you witness some of the important rituals and pious activities
on the banks of river Ganges.
Morning are an important time to learn, take stock of life; to devote
to uncluttered prayer. This the Peshwa and the ancient Hindus understood. And
this is the pattern for morning activities at the Amrit Rao Peshwa Palace for
Arts, Religion & Culture. Visitors can witness the chanting of vedas as
well as aarti, bhajans, kirtans, (all music-based forms of prayer). For the uninitiated,
there will be discourses on yoga and meditation. Talks will further elaborate
the timeless role and significance of river Ganges in the life of every Indian.
To miss it would leave your understanding of the holy Ganges - and an
entire world of culture and heritage woven around it - incomplete.
PROGRAMS ORGANIZED AT AMRIT RAO PESHWA
HAVELI (RAJAGHAT), VARANASI
LIVING CITY TOUR
(The tour involves a short walk through the oldest and the most famous
narrow lanes of the older part of the city. A 45 minute cultural programme of classical
and traditional folk dance performed by a group of renowned
artists on the terrace of the Haveli that commands a panoramic
view of the world famous Ghats of Varanasi.)
ENLIGHTENMENT AT DAWN
(The guests are welcomed at the Ghat with tikka and garlands while Shehnai
plays to welcome them. Local Brahmins Chant Shlokas as soon
as the guest get inside the Haveli. Upon entry in Haveli authentic
Indian as well as Breakfast (vegetarian preparations) is
served in buffet/silver service.)
PESHWA HAVELI EXPERIENCE
(The facade illuminated beautifully with lights and pathways lit up
with diyas and light flower decorations all adorn the Haveli. The Ghat similarly
lit up provides an unforgettable experience while a large number of diyas
are set afloat on the river Ganges. Guests are welcomed at the Ghat
with Ganga Arti, tikka and garlands while the Shenai is playing to welcome
them at the entrance. Local Brahmins chant shlokas as soon as the guest
get inside the haveli. Upon entry in the Haveli, Non-alcolic beverages are
passed followed by a Vegetarian dinner.)
RELIVE BANARAS
(The entire Haveli with the adjoining temple complex
is illuminated and anesthetically decorated all around with
lights, flowers and earthen diyas. A large no of diyas are also put
at appropriate places in a around the Haveli. Guest are welcomed at the Ghat with
Ganga Arti, tika and garlands while a Shenai plays to welcome
them at the entrance. Thousands of diyas are set afloat
on the river. Fire works add further to the experience of a delightful evening.
Impact of the Haveli is deeply felt while climbing up the steps
and more particularly upon entry. Inside of the Haveli is housed the cultural Centre
bringing to life a journey of excitement to witness the
history, culture, tradition, heritage and architectural marvels
of ancient city. Local Brahmins chant hymns and offer prayers to bless
the patrons. Typical local non-alcoholic drinks as well as aerated water is
passed and authentic local vegetarian dinner impeccably served on
Silver Salvers or terra-cotta thalis by waiters especially attired in traditional
Indian dresses. Sitar and Tabla plays in the courtyard during dinner. After dinner,
guests are escorted to the terrace where Tea and Coffee is served while they
witness a Classical Indian Dance. Here on the terrace, one gets a panoramic
view of the centuries old ghats of Varanasi. Towards the end, there are
bhajans sung on the ghat, while guest prepare to leave.)