Banganga, the mini Benaras

The tall buildings spread all over, and the chaotic streets are the identity of Mumbai. With each step, the city of dreams has climbed the stairs of development. However, among the metropolises is an ancient site that exudes a spiritual ambience. The sacred Banganga Tank in the Walkeshwar Temple is related to mythical times.

Banganga, ganga in Mumbai, Image source - Travel.Earth.jpg

Located at the tip of the famous Malabar Hill is the Walkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The large water tank called the Banganga is a part of this temple. The emerald water is enclosed by brown stairs and buildings, which create a picture of the old city of Varanasi. Thus it is also famous as the mini Varanasi. The stories of the temple's origin and the origin of the tank date back to mythology. So let's delve into their rich and fascinating history.

Legend has it that when Mata Sita was taken captive by the demon Ravana, Lord Rama travelled to Lanka in search of his wife. Between his journey, he stopped at this place to pray to Lord Shiva to seek his blessing in finding Sita. To pray to him, he created an idol made of sand, which was known as Valuka Ishwar (an idol made of sand). Thus, the temple got its name. Initially, it was named Balu-Ka-Ishwar, but with time its name got altered.

After the process, Ram got tired and thirsty, so he asked Lakshman to get him water to drink. He shot an arrow to the ground, which gave rise to a water fountain. It was believed that the water came from Bhagowati, a tributary of the Ganga. Since the Ganga came out after being pierced by a ban (arrow in Hindi), it was known as Banganga.

It is said that the Gaud Saraswat brahmins were the first community to reside in the place. Some people also believe that the tanka and the temple complex were built by Lakshman Prabhu, a court minister of the Silhara dynasty in 1127 AD.

In the 16th century, the Portuguese forced the temple into disrepair and demolished it. But, thanks to Rama Kamath, a philanthropist who raised funds for its reconstruction.

Some walls in the complex are adorned with vibrant colours depicting events from mythology. The scented aroma of agarbattis, the tunes of the prayers, and the rings of temple bells all place you in a divine setting.

The rectangular reservoir houses small shrines dedicated to different gods. Devotees consider it auspicious to take a holy bath in the sacred waters. An orange flag is masted in the heart of the tank. The place is believed to be the spot at which the arrow was shot by Lakshman.

The Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee realised the importance of the heritage and declared it to be a Grade-I heritage, which prohibits any further structural changes. The buildings around the temple also have cultural value, and any further redevelopment of them is restricted.

Today, when you visit the place, you experience its elegance. Spend some time on the steps of the tranquil water, and you will cherish the moment forever.