Every summer, my Badi-dadi (great-grandmother), Bhagwati Devi, would pack her bags and head to Banaras (now Varanasi) for three blissful months. This tradition continued well into her 80s, with her beloved Laddu Gopal (her idol of Lord Krishna) nestled safely in her giant black handbag.

Banaras held a special place in my great-grandparents’ hearts. It was here, soon after their wedding, that my great-grandfather became a student at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), laying the foundation for their life together.

The city was their escape, but during the Indo-Chinese War in 1962, when China loomed close and threatened our doorstep in Tezpur, Assam, Banaras became their refuge too. While my great-grandfather remained alongside the other men in Assam, Bhagwati Devi sought solace and a safe haven for the family in Banaras. It was during this pivotal year that they purchased this very house.

Radheshyam and Bhagwati Devi poured their love into this home. Sharing countless walks to the ghats and refreshing dips (dupki) in the Ganges, their happiness here was palpable. They returned to Banaras many times throughout their lives, solidifying its significance within our family. This love for Varanasi has proliferated down the generations, and my grandparents, too, have been enchanted by its magic. They’ve now decided to make this city their retirement home, continuing the legacy established by Badi-dadi and Bada-dadu.

Tibrewala House embodies this enduring connection to our great-grandparents and their unwavering love for Varanasi. Inspired by their story and the blessings (Ashirvad) they bestowed upon us, we’ve established Ashirvad homestay.

Our hope is to carry their Ashirvad forward, sharing their love for this city and this house with every guest who walks through our doors.