One of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, the holy city of Varanasi or Banaras, situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga, has been attracting pilgrims for centuries. Famous author Mark Twain, who visited India in the last decade of the 19th century, described the city as "older than history, older than tradition, older than legend". One word is enough to praise the magnificence of this city. Also, Varanasi is one of the seven holy cities of the country. Centuries of history, art, and tradition have combined to add colorful layers to the aura of Varanasi, most spectacularly evident in its ghats. The abode of pilgrims seeking holiness and divine providence, the Ganga ghats are an important part of Varanasi's spiritual scene. Another wonder about Varanasi is the famous Ganga Aarti performed today. The city of Varanasi has been a center of various cultural and religious activities including learning, literature, and art for many years in North India. It is also called the City of Gods as it is considered to have been built by Lord Shiva. It is the birthplace of Hindustani classical music from the Banaras Gharana. It is the birthplace and workplace of many Indian philosophers, poets, writers, musicians, and other great personalities. This is where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon at a holy place called Sarnath.