Walkeshwar Mandir Temple, Mumbai
Another fascinating temple in South Mumbai is the Walkeshwar Mandir. Dedicated to an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region.
Constructed during the reign of the Silhara dynasty, who ruled the region of Mumbai between 810 and 1240 AD, the architect of the temple was Lakshman Prabhu who was a minister at the King’s court.
Walkeshwar Mandir Temple has a unique and interesting story about its origin. According to legend, Lord Rama on his journey to Lanka, in pursuit of the demon King Raavana, is said to have stopped here. Raavana had abducted Sita, the wife of Rama. On his long journey, Rama was advised to worship a Shivalinga, the idol of Shiva. Failing to get an idol, Rama constructed a linga out of sand, which is believed to be housed in the Walkeshwar Temple.
Close to the temple is a tank called the Banganga Tank. The tank today is a rectangular pool filled with water with steps to lead you in. In spite of its proximity to the sea, the tank is filled with spring water. The spring surfaced only after Lakshman, the brother of Rama shot an arrow at this spot when the latter was thirsty.
Constructed during the reign of the Silhara dynasty, who ruled the region of Mumbai between 810 and 1240 AD, the architect of the temple was Lakshman Prabhu who was a minister at the King’s court.
Walkeshwar Mandir Temple has a unique and interesting story about its origin. According to legend, Lord Rama on his journey to Lanka, in pursuit of the demon King Raavana, is said to have stopped here. Raavana had abducted Sita, the wife of Rama. On his long journey, Rama was advised to worship a Shivalinga, the idol of Shiva. Failing to get an idol, Rama constructed a linga out of sand, which is believed to be housed in the Walkeshwar Temple.
Close to the temple is a tank called the Banganga Tank. The tank today is a rectangular pool filled with water with steps to lead you in. In spite of its proximity to the sea, the tank is filled with spring water. The spring surfaced only after Lakshman, the brother of Rama shot an arrow at this spot when the latter was thirsty.
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Walkeshwar Mandir Temple on Map
Sight Name: Walkeshwar Mandir Temple
Sight Location: Mumbai, India (See walking tours in Mumbai)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Mumbai, India (See walking tours in Mumbai)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
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