NEW YORK (TIP): In a statement to The Indian Panorama, Air India Regional Manager for Americas, Rishi Kant Singh said that Air India launched direct flights between Varanasi and Sharjah on August 17. This will provide a safe and convenient flight link and aid the development of the adjoining districts of Varanasi which are largely agricultural, he said.

Varanasi as is widely known is the oldest continually inhabited city in the world with lot of history of its own. It is home to Kashi Vishwanath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the well known banks of river Ganges where thousands perform rituals on a daily basis. Varanasi is well linked on the Buddhist circuit starting with Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. His Holiness The Dalai Lama is fond of Sarnath and meets his disciples and followers when in residence.

The adjoining district of Ghazipur is the final resting place of Lord Cornwallis, then Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of British India in serene environs.

At short distance from Varanasi is the city of Allahabad, known for  educational institutions and contribution to lawmakers, administrators and judiciary. Prayag is a holy site with confluence of Yamuna, Ganga and Sarawati. Prayag sees the largest congregation of people in the Kumbh mela which is visible from space.

All these and more make Varanasi an important destination by itself. We hope the increased connectivity will provide residents of United Arab Emirates and other destinations to connect over Sharjah and Dubai to Varanasi.