As it sweeps past the grand arc of Varanasi (Kashi), the Ganges, for a short while flows due North, as if returning to its origin in the pristine snows of the Himalayas and is hence named, Uttarvahini, the North flowing river. Kashi faces East and every morning as Light begins to etch out forms and hues, illuminate the alleys, nooks and confused staircases, it sets off a play of reflections, textures and shades which are mesmerizing and endless.