One of the places in Mumbai that I found very interesting to explore was Banganga Tank, a freshwater pond next to the sea with an ancient history.
In the middle of the water is a tall, wooden pole that is symbolic of the centre of the earth that Lord Rama’s arrow has pierced, according to an old Hindu legend.
Nowadays Banganga Tank is still daily used for ceremonies, meditations, prayers and baths.
The pond is surrounded by steps that lead up to lots of small temples and to brick and wooden houses. A very special spot and neighborhood indeed. It feels almost like a medieval village in the middle of huge Mumbai.
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| In the middle you can see the wooden pole. |
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| A peek in between the houses towards the tank. |
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| Some of the surrounding temples and houses on this picture and the following ones. |
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| Nice details here and there |
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| Small alleys, leading to the sea |
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| Shrine |
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| Alleys, stairs and temples all around the pond |
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| Remains from colonial times |
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| I happen to love urban decay…well, only if it’s pretty…hahaha |
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| Decaying murals |
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| Cute lantern lights |
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| More decaying murals |
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| Daily life around the pond |
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| Shrines |
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| Someone’s having a (ceremonial?) bath in one of the small bassins |
This place is not so well known, but I do recommend it, if you happen to be in Mumbai. Preferably early in the morning, when people come for the ceremonies.
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