THEN
- Panchavati was the place near the forest of Dandakaranya, where Rama built
his home along with Sita and brother Lakshman during their period of exile in
the wilderness. It is here that Shurpanakhi saw Rama and was smitten by him,
and got her nose and ears cut by Lakshmana when she tried to attack Sita. Hence
this place is called Nashik. She then had her brothers Khar and Dushan attack
Rama, who killed them in the subsequent battle. Its an important spot according
to Hindu mythology since it is considered as a place where one observes penance
for his bad deeds.
NOW
– Panchavati is located in modern day Nashik, about 180 kms north-east of
Mumbai in Maharashtra. There are five (Panch) Banyan trees (Vat Vriksha) and
hence the area is called Panchavati. It is also where the river Godavari comes
down from the mountains, and on her banks are many temples.
The
Kala Ram Mandir is built right where Rama is believed to have set up his hut
with Sita and Lakshmana, and from where Ravana abducted Sita. This 70 feet high
temple, with a gold plated copper dome and many other sculptures relating to
Rama, happens to be the busiest temples in the locality.
The
Ram Kund is popularly believed to have been one of the bathing places of Rama.
Devotees frequent here to have a holy dip, which is considered very pious.
