Banaras has over 2000 temples, big and small, dedicated to Lord Shiva and to other deities. The skyline along the riverbank is market by high spires of temples. According to a myth, Lord Shiva performed severe austerities to sanctify Banaras, and considers Banaras
is earthly home. In the imagination of the people of Banaras, Shiva is visualised as an
ash-smeared yogi who is meditating in the cremation grounds and eternally bestowing grace and liberation on his devotees.