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Gallery 5 : Yagya: Havo-hotra-havan-hom

Prior to the virtual museum, Man Mahal was partly used as interpretation galleries on Kashi, Ganga and the observatory.
The same was completely redesigned to restore the original elements and space. The central pillar in the 5th gallery
which was earlier covered with information panels was redone to create a ‘Tree of life’ installation to highlight the faith
& spirituality of the city.
Varanasi exhibits a multitude of religious beliefs which have evolved to co-exist today. The “tree of life” installation
signifies the city as home to multiple religions and faiths and the inverted glass lamps are customized to create curvilinear
shadow on the floor. The curved screens around the pillar display the everlasting fire, the imagined embodiment of the
Fire God who appears in almost every culture and worshiped in every civilization from time immemorial. While this element
of nature is associated with destruction and devastation, it is also known for bringing warmth and light to humankind. A
prayer plays in the background of the gallery.

While moving towards the next gallery, the visitors experience the essence of taking a holy dip in sacred river Ganges
created by using water sprinklers technology and motion sensor.

Before – Kashi Interpretation Gallery After – ‘Tree of Faith and Spirituality’ Exhibit

RAS RAS BANARAS, VIRTUAL EXPERIENTIAL MUSEUM, MANMAHAL, VARANASI

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