Banganga Lake — Attraction in Mumbai

Visiting Banganga Lake during the grand aarti was a deeply moving and transformative experience. This sacred spot, nestled amidst the urban chaos of Mumbai, feels like stepping back in time. Believed to have been created by Lord Rama when he shot an arrow to summon water, the Banganga Tank is not just a historical marvel but also a spiritual haven.

On the evening of the aarti, the place came alive with divine energy. The serene waters of the tank reflected the golden glow of hundreds of diyas (lamps) as devotees gathered in reverence. The air resonated with the harmonious chants of mantras and the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, especially the damru, which marked the entry of Mahakal Shiv Ji. Witnessing the synchronized chanting by hundreds of devotees, led by learned pandits, was truly mesmerizing.

For someone who has always dreamt of witnessing the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi but couldn’t make the journey, this experience was no less fulfilling. The Banganga Aarti offers a glimpse of that same spiritual fervor right here in Mumbai. As the mantras filled the air and the lamps illuminated the surroundings, it felt like being part of a timeless ritual that connects the past, present, and future.

The temple complex surrounding the tank adds to the sacred ambiance. Each temple, with its unique architecture and historical significance, tells a story of devotion and tradition. The puja mandap, beautifully decorated with flowers and rangoli, was a sight to behold. The cultural vibrancy of the place was evident in the mela (fair) that accompanied the celebrations, offering free prasad (bhog) to everyone, reinforcing the spirit of community and sharing.

Being amidst such an event made me realize the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage. Banganga Tank, often referred to as Mumbai's hidden gem, is not just a place of worship but a living testament to the city's spiritual and historical legacy.

I urge everyone to visit this sacred spot, especially during the aarti. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to experience the cultural essence of Mumbai, Banganga has something to offer. The vibrations of the chants, the glow of the diyas, the fragrance of incense, and the collective energy of devotion create a serene yet powerful atmosphere.

This visit left me feeling blessed and profoundly connected to a tradition that has stood the test of time. Sharing some photos and videos of this unforgettable evening to give you a glimpse of the magic that is Banganga Aarti.

📍 Location: Banganga Tank, Walkeshwar, Mumbai 🌟 Highlight: Spiritual experience akin to Varanasi's Ganga Aarti 🕉️ Best Time to Visit: During the aarti or...

Visited the historic Banganga Tank over the weekend, and the experience was both culturally rich and spiritually calming. Being a weekend, the place was alive with various rituals — from people performing pujas and offering prayers to families gathered for traditional ceremonies. It gave a real sense of the living heritage this sacred site holds.

Despite the activity, the overall atmosphere was peaceful and reflective. The sound of chants, the sight of devotees, and the calm ripples of the water made it a perfect spot to pause and soak in the moment.

One interesting detail — the tank is home to large fishes, which swim gracefully through the water. Watching them adds to the sense of serenity and connection to nature that the...

Banganga is a holy water tank surrounded by temples & dharamshalas The tank was built in 1127, by Lakshman Prabhu, a GSB minister of the Silhara Dynasty (810-1240 AD) It was rebuilt in 1715, by a Mumbai philanthropist Rama Kamath.

It is said that Lord Rama enroute to Lanka to save Sita from Ravana was advised to worship Shiva. So he created a Linga of sand (Valuka Eswar) Over the years, this area gets the name Walkeshwar.

And Rama to quench his thirst, shot an arrow into the ground & a tributary of the Ganga river gushed out. Banganga literally means Ganga created by a baan (arrow).

Though Banganga tank is close to the Arabian Sea, its water is sweet & not salty. The holy water has...