Hermitages of Bharatavarsha

Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sage Vishwamitra bestowed Bala and Atibala mantras to Sri Rama (to overcome hunger and fatigue) while going through Koshala.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Tataka Vanam where Rama slayed demoness Tataka.
• Sage Vishwamitra bestowed divine weapons to Sri Rama at Tataka Vanam.
• Sri Rama protected the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Gautama Ashrama (Mithila Upavana) where Rama delivered Devi Ahalya.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Mithila where Rama heard the story of the appearance of Devi Sita.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Mithila where Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva and thereafter married Devi Sita.

Pilgrimages:
► Buxar – Vamaneshwar Dham (Buxar district, Bihar): Identified with Siddhashrama which was a temporary hermitage of sage Vishwamitra.

Tataka Vanam, Buxar district, Bihar► Buxar – Tataka Vanam
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Tataka Vanam is identified with the Tataka Forest where Sri Rama slayed demoness Tataka and received divine weapons from sage Vishwamitra.

Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar► Buxar – Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama)
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham is identified with Siddhashrama where Sri Rama heard about Vamana Avatara and protected the yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

Ahilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, BiharAhilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, Bihar► Mithila – Darbhanga Ahilya Asthan
(Darbhanga district, Bihar)

Ahilya Asthan of Darbhanga is identified with the place where Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama.

Appearance of Devi Sita from EarthPunaura Dham, Sitamarhi district, Bihar► Mithila – Sitamarhi Punaura Dham
(Sitamarhi district, Bihar)

Punaura Dham of Sitamarhi is identified with the place where Devi Sita appeared when king Janaka was ploughing the field.

Appearance of Devi Sita from EarthJanaki Temple, Sitamarhi district, Bihar► Mithila – Sitamarhi Janaki Temple
(Sitamarhi district, Bihar)

Janaki Temple of Sitamarhi is also identified with the place where Devi Sita appeared when king Janaka was ploughing the field.

Sri Rama breaking bowSri Rama marrying Devi SitaJanakpur Janki Temple, Dhanusha district, Nepal► Mithila – Janakpur Janaki Temple
(Dhanusha district, Nepal)

Janki Temple of Janakpur Dham is identified with the palace of king Janaka where Sri Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva.

Girivraja: Sri Rama hearing about the lineage of Vishwamitra:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 31 to 34)

Sri Rama with Vishwamitra• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama camping on the bank of river Shona at Girivraja and hearing about the lineage of sage Vishwamitra.

• Sage Vishwamitra leaving Siddhashrama: After the yagna of sage Vishwamitra was accomplished, he decided to leave Siddhashrama forever and go to the Himalayas on the northern bank of river Ganga (where his main hermitage was there).

• Sri Rama starting for Mithila: The sages told Sri Rama to join them in their journey to Mithila to see a mighty bow of king Janaka. The sages said that king Janaka obtained that bow from his forefathers, who in turn got it through the performance of a Vedic ritual. The bow is so powerful that it cannot be lifted by anyone – devas, gandharvas, asuras or human beings. King Janaka is performing a Vedic ritual and the bow is being worshipped there. Sage Vishwamitra bade farewell to the forest deities and the animals and birds who followed them. The sages started their journey with hundred carts.

• Sri Rama camping on the bank of river Shona: When the sun was setting in the west, they came to the bank of River Shona and camped there. The sages took bath and kindled the oblation fire. Then Sri Rama and others sat around sage Vishwamitra. Sri Rama enquired about that place which had such charming woodlands.

• Sage Vishwamitra telling about Girivraja: Sage Vishwamitra then narrated the story of Kusha which is related to the history of that place. Kusha was a sage-like person possessing ascesis of high order. He had four sons named Kushambha, Kushanabha, Asurtarajasa and Vasu. Kusha instructed his sons to uphold the dharma of the kshatriyas and establish their rulership. The four sons built four cities. Kushambha built the city called Mahodaya, Asurtarajasa built the city called Dharmaranya and Vasu built the city called Girivraja. The place where they are camping is the land of king Vasu which is surrounded by five mountains. River Magadhi flows through that place and makes it rich in farmlands.

• Sage Vishwamitra telling about daughters of Kushanabha: King Kushanabha had a hundred daughters through a celestial named Ghritachi. They were very beautiful. One day when they were singing, dancing and playing musical instruments in the garden, the Wind god was attracted towards them. He proposed them to become his wife. When the girls refused saying that they cannot do anything without the consent of their father, the Wind god became angry, entered their limbs and disfigured them. The girls repeated this to their father. The king became sad but praised the daughters for the quality of forgiveness.

• Sage Vishwamitra telling about Brahmadatta: Sage Vishwamitra then narrated the story of Brahmadatta who restored the beauty of the girls. A great sage named Chuli was performing asceticism. He was served by a gandharva female named Somada who was the daughter of Urmila. Chuli became pleased with her service and wanted to fulfil any wish she had. Somada asked for a son of great asceticism. However since she was not married, she requested Chuli to bestow a son through his ascetic power. Sage Chuli bestowed her with a great son who became renowned as Brahmadatta. King Brahmadatta ruled the city named Kampilya. King Kushanabha married her hundred daughters to Brahmadatta. During marriage, as king Brahmadatta took the palm of each daughter, they were healed of their disfigurement and attained their former beauty.

• Sage Vishwamitra telling about Gadhi and himself: When king Brahmadatta left after marriage, king Kushanabha performed a Vedic ritual to beget a son named Gadhi who will achieve great renown. Sage Vishwamitra said that he is the son of Gadhi. Also, since he is born in the dynasty of Kusha, he is known as Kaushiki. Sage Vishwamitra then told about his elder sister named Satyavati who undertook great vows. Satyavati was married to sage Ruchika. After her husband departed, she went to heaven with her body. Then, for the welfare of human beings she flowed down as river Kaushiki in the Himalayan region. Sage Vishwamitra told that he was residing in the Himalayas on the bank of river Kaushiki (his sister). Only for a short period he stayed at Siddhashrama to undertake a yagna. Now that his yagna is accomplished he is returning to his hermitage in the Himalayas.
(Kusha → Kushanabha → Gadhi → Vishwamitra

Association with Lord Vishnu: (Srimad Bhagvatam)
• Sage Vyasa composed the Srimad Bhagavatam describing the glories of the Incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Compositions:
• Classifying Vedas: Classifying the Vedas into Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva.
• Mahabharata: Composing Mahabharata.
• Puranas: Composing Srimad Bhagavatam and other Puranas.

• Meditation: I meditate on Vyasa Avatara of Lord Vishnu.

• Sage Vyasa contemplating on degeneration during Kali Yuga: During the advent of Dwapara Yuga, which is the third Yuga, sage Vyasa was begotten by sage Parashara in the womb of the daughter of Vasu (i.e. Satyavati). Sage Vyasa was a part-incarnation of Lord Vishnu. One day, when the Sun rose in the sky, sage Vyasa sipped the water of river Saraswati, became purified and sat alone on its bank contemplating on the future. The great Rishi who had insight into the past, present and future saw transformations in the Yuga Dharma which happens due to the force of time in different Yugas. The sage saw that people will become bereft of strength due to which they will become bereft of Shraddha and energy. They will also become dull-witted (Durmedha), of short lifespan and of ill-luck (Durbhaga). Sage Vyasa thought of the means of their welfare.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 4)

• Sage Vyasa dividing the Vedas: Seeing the Vedic Yagnas as the means of attaining Karma Suddhi (Purification of Work), sage Vyasa divided the Veda into four parts. The four Vedas are the Rik, Yajur, Sama and Atharva. The Vedas were divided so that the less Intelligent (Durmedha) can assimilate it.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 4)

• Sage Vyasa composing the Itihasas and Puranas: Sage Vyasa composed the Itihasas (Mahabharata) and Puranas which are known as the fifth Veda (and thus retained the sacred heritage). Sage Vyasa did this out of compassion for Woman (Stri), Labouring class (Shudra) and friends of Dwija (Dwija-bandhu) who were not entitled to hear the Vedas.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 4)

• Sage Vyasa imparting the Scriptures to his disciples: The knowledge of Rig Veda was imparted to Sage Paila, Sama Veda to sage Jaimini, Yajur Veda to sage Vaishampayana and Atharva Veda to sage Angira (Sumantu). Itihasas and Puranas were imparted to Romaharshana (Suta). The Vedic scholars inturn imparted the Vedas to their disciples and in this way different branches of the Vedas came into existence.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 4)

• Sage Vyasa remaining unsatisfied: Even after doing all this for the welfare of all, sage Vyasa remained unsatisfied in heart (Na-Atushyat). He began to reflect upon the cause of his dissatisfaction even after disseminating the knowledge of Dharma (Virtue), Artha (Wealth), Kama (Desire) and Moksha (Liberation) through the Scriptures. He cogitated whether this was due to the lack of adequate exposition of Bhagavata Dharma (the Dharma of Bhagavan or the Principles connecting one to Bhagavan). The Bhagavata Dharma is dear to Paramahamshas (figuratively the great Aatmas which fly in the Spiritual Sky of the Divine Realm like great Swans) as well as Acyuta (Infallable Supreme Being) Himself.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 4)

• Sage Narada telling the cause of dissatisfaction to sage Vyasa: As sage Vyasa was thus cogitating, sage Narada appeared in his hermitage. Sage Vyasa welcomed him and asked him the cause of his dissatisfaction. Sage Narada pointed out that this was because he has not adequately described the pure stainless Glories of the Lord (which directs ones mind towards trancendence). A darshana (philosophy) which does not satisfy the Lord (Who resides as our innermost being) is khila or uncultivated (i.e. has not devotionally cultivated the land of our innermost being). Sage Vyasa has described the religious principles in great details but not so the Glories of Vasudeva. That composition which does not describe the Glories of the Lord which sanctifies the World are like pilgrimage of crows. The Hamshas do not visit them since their mind relish only the trancendental glories of the Lord. On the other hand compositions which describe the trancendental Names and Glories of the Lord are heard and sung by purified men, even if those compositions have some literary defects. Even Knowledge which is free from the Bhava of Acyuta (i.e. which is without Devotion) does not shine well, what is speak of Karma which is done without dedicating the fruits to the Lord.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 5)

• Sage Narada inspiring Vyasa to compose the Bhagavata: Therefore you who are endowed with great holiness, are a perfect seer, have spotless fame and is devoted to Truth: in Samadhi recall the pastimes of the Lord and describe them to all for liberation from bondage. Whatever is described apart from the Lord, are simply different names and forms and they make the mind restless like a boat tossed by wind. Only great souls are fully unattached from material happiness. Ordinary people are attached to the gunas (qualities) of the material world, and therefore you should show them the way. A person in the path of Devotion may not attain perfection immediately but he never falls (but evolves gradually). The Lord Himself is this Vishwa (Cosmos), but still separate from it (being unaffected by its transformations); in Him it rests and unto Him it dissolves. Therefore, describe the divine Incarnations of the Lord, including that of yourself, their Attributes and Glories (for the spiritual welfare of the people).
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 5)

• Sage Narada describing his own life: Sage Narada then described his own life and spiritual experiences to sage Vyasa.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 5 to 6)

• Sage Vyasa composing the Bhagavata Purana: After sage Narada departed, sage Vyasa sat in meditation in his hermitage on the bank of river Saraswati in a place named Samyaprasa which is surrounded by Badari trees. Concentrating his mind with divine love for the Lord, he had the vision of the Lord as well as His Maya. It is this Maya which deludes people making them identify with their bodies and material world. This suffering can be overcome by Devotion to the Lord. Thus sage Vyasa composed the great Bhagavata Purana.
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 01 – 7)

Badrinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas on the banks of the Alaknanda River, the temple stands at an altitude of about 3,133 meters above sea level. It is one of the four holy shrines of the Char Dham Yatra and also forms an important part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit Badrinath Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Badri Narayan.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu performed deep meditation at this sacred place, while Goddess Lakshmi took the form of a Badri tree to protect Him from harsh weather. This is how the place came to be known as Badrinath. It is also believed that the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya rediscovered the temple in the 8th century and established it as a major center of Hindu worship.

The main deity of Badrinath Temple is a one-meter-tall black stone idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative posture. The temple’s colorful façade, traditional Himalayan architecture, and spiritual atmosphere attract pilgrims and tourists alike. Before entering the temple, devotees usually take a holy dip in the nearby Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to have healing properties.

The temple remains open from late April or early May until October or November because of heavy snowfall during winter. During the winter months, the idol is ceremonially moved to Narsingh Temple for worship. Badrinath Temple continues to inspire millions of devotees with its rich history, divine significance, and breathtaking Himalayan surroundings.

Sage Vasishtha:

Lineage: Brahma > Vasishtha (1st birth)
Lineage: Brahma > Marichi > Kashyapa > Mitra-Varuna > Vasishtha (another birth)
Lineage: Brahma > Vasishtha > Shakti > Parasara > Vyasa

Sage Vasishtha Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sage Vasishtha acted as the kulaguru of the Ikshvaku dynasty (where Sri Rama was born).
• Sage Vasishtha and sage Rishyashringa guided the Yagnas of King Dasharatha which led to the incarnation of Sri Rama in Ayodhya.

Compositions:
• Rig Vedic Mantras: Seer of Rig Vedic Mantras (Mandala 7).
• Yoga Vasishtha: Philosophical discourse between sage Vasishtha and prince Rama based on Advaita Vedanta.
• Vasishtha Samhita: Text on Yoga.

Pilgrimages:
► Ayodhya – Vasishtha Kund (Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh): Hermitage of sage Vasishtha.
► Ayodhya outskirts – Makhauda Dham (Basti district, Uttar Pradesh): Place of Putrakameshti Yagna of king Dasharatha.

Vasistha Kund► Ayodhya – Vasishtha Kund
(Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh)

Vasishtha Kund is identified with the place where the hermitage of sage Vasishtha was located. This is the place where Sri Rama studied in the gurukula of sage Vasishtha.

Dasharatha performing Putrakamesthi Yagna Makhauda Dham► Ayodhya – Makhauda Dham (around 20 km from Ayodhya)
(Basti district, Uttar Pradesh)

Makhauda Dham is identified with the place where king Dasharatha performed the Putrakameshti Yagna.

► Ayodhya (Moksha Puri) (Divya Desam)
(Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh)

▬ River Ghaghara (Sarayu) flows → Saryu Ghat (Aarti)
– Lakshman Ghat – Vaidehi Ghat – Ram Ghat – Bharat Ghat – Shatrughna Ghat – Swargadwar Ghat – Guptar Ghat
▬ River Tamasa flows
(Middle Ganga Plain)

(Valmiki Ramayana)
(Skanda Purana – Ayodhya Mahatmya)

Sri Rama
Sri Rama

Ram Janambhoomi
Ram Janambhoomi

Hanuman Garhi
Hanuman Garhi

Nageshwarnath
Nageshwarnath

Choti DevKali
Choti DevKali

Surya Kund
Surya Kund

Nandigram
Nandigram

River Sarayu
River Sarayu Ghat

Sarayu Aarti
River Sarayu Aarti

Sage Vasishtha
Sage Vasishtha

Sage Rishyashringa
Sage Rishyashringa

Tulsi Udyan
Tulsi Udyan

• Rama: Sri Rama incarnated in Ayodhya, grew up in Ayodhya, ruled his kingdom from Ayodhya and finally returned to his divine abode from Ayodhya.
– Makhauda Dham
– Ram Janambhoomi
– Dashrath Mahal
– Kanak Bhavan
– Mani Parvat
– Ratna Simhasan
– Kaleram Mandir
– Tretanathji Mandir
– Nandigram
– Swargadar Ghat
– Guptar Ghat

• Sita: Devi Sita stayed with Sri Rama in Ayodhya after marriage.
– Kanak Bhavan
– Mani Parvat

• Vishnu: Lord Vishnu abides in Ayodhya in seven forms as Sapta Hari:
– Vishnuhari
– Chandrahari
– Dharmahari
– Chakrahari
– Guptahari
– Bilvahari
– Punyahari

• Hanuman: Bhakta Hanuman attended the coronation ceremony of Sri Rama in Ayodhya. Thereafter he stayed back in Ayodhya for protecting Ramkot from a fort which is the current temple known as Hanuman Garhi.
– Hanuman Garhi

• Shiva: Lord Shiva abides in Ayodhya as Nageshwarnath (said to be established by Kusha).
– Nageshwarnath

• Devi: Devi abides in Ayodhya as Choti DevKali and Badi DevKali, the kula devis of the Ikshwaku dynasty.
– Choti DevKali
– Badi DevKali

• Surya: Surya deva cured king Ghosha (of Solar race) of his disease in Ayodhya. The place is known as Surya Kund or Ghosharka Kund.
– Surya Kund (Ghosh-Arka Teertha)

• Kubera: Sri Kubera showered gold in Ayodhya for king Raghu. The place is known as Sonkhar which is on the outskirts of Ayodhya.
– Sonkhar (Outskirts of Ayodhya)

• Sages: Sages associated with Ayodhya:

○ Vasishtha: Sage Vasishtha had his hermitage in Ayodhya, being the kulaguru of the Ikshwaku dynasty.
– Vasishtha Kund

○ Rishyashringa: Sage Rishyashringa presided over the Putrakameshti Yagna of king Dasharatha near Ayodhya.
– Makhauda Dham

• Saints: Saints associated with Ayodhya:

○ Tulsidas (1532 – 1623 CE): Sri Tulsidas started composing the Ramcharitmanas in Ayodhya on the day of Rama Navami.
– Tulsi Udyan

अयोध्या मथुरा माया काशी काञ्ची अवन्तिका ।
पुरी द्वारावती चैव सप्तैते मोक्षदायकाः ॥
– Sapta Mokshapuri Sloka (Ayodhya is a Moksha Puri)

शुद्धब्रह्मपरात्पर राम् । कालात्मकपरमेश्वर राम् । शेषतल्पसुखनिद्रित राम् । ब्रह्माद्यामरप्रार्थित राम् ।
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verse 1 (Sri Rama incarnated in Ayodhya)

Ayodhya outskirts: Sage Valmiki had his hermitage on the outskrits of Ayodhya where river Tamasa flowed.
○ Sage Valmiki getting divine inspiration to compose Ramayana (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Note: The hermitage is expected to be on the outskirts of Ayodhya since river Tamasa flowed along the southern boundary of Ayodhya in ancient times, and sage Valmiki got the divine inspiration to compose the Valmiki Ramayana on the bank of river Tamasa.

Meditation: I meditate on sage Valmiki getting the divine inspiration and insight to compose Ramayana.

• Qualities of Sri Rama: In the opening chapter of Valmiki Ramayana, sage Valmiki asked sage Narada about the existence of a person with the following qualities:
1. Gunavan: Who is Virtuous
2. Viryavan: Who is Valorous
3. Dharmagya: Who is the knower of Dharma
4. Krtagya: Who is the doer of Good Deeds (according to Dharma)
5. Satyavakya: Who is the speaker of Truth
6. Dridhavrata: Who is firm in his Vows
7. Catritrena Yukta: Who by Character is united (with Dharma)
8. Sarvabhuteshu Hitah: Who is disposed towards the Welfare of all beings
9. Vidvan: Who is Learned
10. Samartha: Who is Capable (in upholding Dharma)
11. Priyadarshana: Who has a Graceful and Pleasant appearance
12. Aatmavan: Who is Self-Composed
13. Jitakrodha: Who has conquered Anger
14. Dyutiman: Who is Effulgent (filled with the Effulgence of Aatman)
15. Anasuyaka: Who is not Envious
16. Bibhyati Devah: Whom even the Devas Fear

Sage Narada mentioned about Sri Rama and told about his life in brief.
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 1)

• Sage Valmiki getting divine inspiration: Later sage Valmiki got a divine inspiration when be went to river Tamasa. He saw two Krauncha birds in union. A hunter suddenly appeared and killed the male bird leaving the female bird wailing in separation. The sage cursed the hunter, but that curse came out in a beautiful poetic meter. He kept on pondering over that throughout the day. (Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 2 to 3)

• Lord Brahma imparting yogic power to Sage Valmiki to compose Ramayana: Then Lord Brahma appeared to him and told him to compose the life of Sri Rama in a poetic meter. Lord Brahma imparted yogic power to sage Valmiki to see all the incidents of the life of Sri Rama. (Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 2 to 3)

• Lava and Kusha singing Ramayana: When the great epic was composed, sage Valmiki imparted it to Lava and Kusha and taught them to sing it in their beautiful melodious voice. Lava and Kusha sang the Valmiki Ramayana before the sages and holy men. They became moved by that song. Sri Rama heard about Lava and Kusha and called them in his palace at Ayodhya. Lava and Kusha sang the Ramayana before Sri Rama in the court. Sri Rama also became moved by it. (Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 4)

Lineage: Brahma > Marichi > Kashyapa > … > Vibhandaka > Rishyashringa

Sage Rishyashringa Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sage Rishyashringa presided over the Putrakamesthi Yagna of King Dasharatha which led to the incarnation of Sri Rama in Ayodhya.

Pilgrimages:
► Ayodhya outskirts – Makhauda Dham (Basti district, Uttar Pradesh): Place of Putrakameshti Yagna of king Dasharatha.
► Shringverpur – Shringi Rishi Temple (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh): Hermitage of sage Rishyashringa.

Dasharatha performing Putrakamesthi YagnaMakhauda Dham► Ayodhya – Makhauda Dham (around 20 km from Ayodhya)
(Basti district, Uttar Pradesh)

Makhauda Dham is identified with the place where king Dasharatha performed the Putrakameshti Yagna.

Shringi Rishi templeShringi Rishi temple► Shringverpur – Shringi Rishi Temple
(Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh)

(The name Shringverpur is said to be derived from the presence of Shringi Rishi in this place. It is believed that Shringi Rishi performed sadhana in this place. There is a temple of Shringi Rishi with Shanta Devi (wife) and Devi Sitala.)

Anga: Sri Rama hearing about Lord Shiva burning Kama deva:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 23 to 24)

Sri Rama with sage Vishwamitra• Meditation:: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting Anga at the confluence of rivers Ganga and Sarayu and seeing the hermitages of sages who were practicing penance for many thousands of years.

• Sri Rama hearing about Lord Shiva burning Kama deva:: When Sri Rama enquired about the hermitages, sage Vishwamitra told about the legend of Lord Shiva burning Kama deva in that place. When Lord Shiva was meditating there, Kama deva disturbed his meditation. Lord Shiva in anger burnt Kama deva to ashes with the fire of his third eye. Since Kama deva became bodiless he came to be known as Ananga (meaning bodiless), and the place came to be known as Anga. The hermitages belonged to the disciples of Shiva who have become sinless (by their long penance).

• Sri Rama spending a night at Anga: Sri Rama spent that night in a hermitage at Anga. The sages welcomed them.

• Sri Rama hearing about the Ganga – Sarayu confluence: Next morning, Sri Rama, Lakshmana and sage Vishwamitra boarded a boat and started crossing the river. In the mid-stream was heard a loud sound of clashing waters. Sage Vishwamitra told that the sound was due to river Sarayu merging with river Ganga. Vishwamitra also told that river Sarayu originates from Lake Manasa in Mount Kailasha, hence it is a holy river. Sri Rama and Lakshmana offered salutations to both these holy rivers.

Association with Sri Krishna: (Srimad Bhagavatam)
• Sage Garga performed the naming ceremony of Sri Krishna secretly in cow-shed of Gokula.

◍ Pilgrimages:
► Gokul – Gokul Nand Bhavan (Mathura district, Uttarkhand): Identified with the house of Nanda and Yashoda where Sri Krishna grew up.
► Gokul – Mahavan Nand Bhavan (Mathura district, Uttarkhand): Identified with the house of Nanda and Yashoda where Sri Krishna grew up.

Sri Krishna stealing butterNanda Yashoda Bhavan, Gokul, Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh► Gokul – Gokul Nand-Yashoda Bhavan or Nand Mahal
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Nand-Yashoda Bhavan of Gokul (New Gokul) is identified with the house of Nanda where Sri Krishna and Sri Balarama grew up.

Within the Nand-Yashoda Bhavan are Images of:
1. Sri Balarama (Sri Balarama was transferred from the womb of Devaki at Mathura to the womb of Rohini at Gokula)
2. Devi Yogamaya (Devi Yogamaya incarnated as the daughter of Yashoda in Gokul)
3. Sri Krishna (Sri Krishna was exchanged by Vasudeva with Devi Yogamaya)
4. Nand and Yashoda

Sri Krishna stealing butterNanda Bhavan, Mahavan (Chaurasi Khamba temple), Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh► Gokul – Mahavan Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple of Mahavan (Old Gokul) is also identified with the house of Nanda where Sri Krishna and Sri Balarama grew up.

Gokula: Garga Muni performing the naming ceremony of Sri Krishna secretly in cow-shed:

(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 8)

Sri Krishna and Garga Muni• Meditation: I meditate on Garga Muni performing the naming ceremony of Sri Krishna secretly in the cow-shed of Nanda Maharaj. Garga Muni was the Kula-Guru of Yadu dynasty.

– Gokul (Yamuna) (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

► Gokul (Vraja Bhoomi) (Divya Desam)
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

▬ River Yamuna flows → Gau Ghat, Brahmanda Ghat (Aarti)
– Gokul: Yashoda Ghat – Gau Ghat – Yamuna Temple
– Mahavan: Brahmanda Ghat
(Upper Ganga Plain)

(Srimad Bhagavatam)

Child Krishna
Child Krishna

Child Krishna stealing butter
Child Krishna
stealing butter

Sri Krishna liberating Putana
Krishna & Putana

Mother Yashoda binding Krishna
Mother Yashoda
binding Krishna

Devi Yogamaya
Devi Yogamaya

Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva

Gokul Yashoda Ghat
Gokul: Yashoda Ghat
(River Yamuna)

Mahavan Brahmanda Ghat
Mahavan: Brahmanda
Ghat (River Yamuna)

Sage Garga
Sage Garga

Nimbarkacharya
Nimbarkacharya

Surdas
Surdas

Vallabhacharya
Vallabhacharya

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

Meerabai
Meerabai

• Balarama: Sri Balarama incarnated in Mathura in the prison of Kamsa in the womb of Devaki, but was transferred to the womb of Rohini in Gokula by Devi Yogamaya. Sri Balarama grew up in Gokula.

• Krishna: Sri Krishna grew up in Gokula as the son of Nanda and Yashoda and performed various childhood pranks (like stealing butter) in that place.
– Sri Krishna killed Putana and Trinavarta in Gokula.
– Sri Krishna performed the Leela of Damodara (Yashoda trying to bind) in Gokula and liberated Nalakuvara and Manigriva (as Arjuna Trees).
– Sri Krishna made a woman fruit-seller rich in Gokula.
– Gokul: Nand-Yashoda Bhavan – Putna Uddhar Sthal – Yashoda Ghat
– Mahavan: Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple – Putna Temple – Brahmanda Ghat – Ukhal Bandhan

• Devi: Devi Yogamaya incarnated in Gokula as the daughter of Nanda and Yashoda.
– Mahavan: Yogamaya Temple

• Shiva: Lord Shiva abides in Gokula as Darshaneshwar Mahadev (the Mahadev who came to see child Krishna).
– Darshaneshwar Mahadev Temple

• Sages: Sages associated with Vraja:

○ Garga: Sage Garga performed the naming ceremony of Sri Krishna in Gokula secretly within a cowshed. Sage Garga also performed the Upanayana ceremony of Sri Krishna in Mathura before he departed to Sandipani Ashrama of Avanti.

• Saints: Saints associated with Vraja:

○ Nimbarkacharya (? – 1162 CE): Sri Nimbarkacharya is said to have lived in Vraja and preached devotion of Sri Krishna (Dvaitaadvaita).

○ Surdas (1478 – 1573 CE): Sri Surdas lived in Vraja and composed devotional songs in praise of Sri Krishna (Sur Sagar).

○ Vallabhacharya (1479 – 1531 CE): Sri Vallabhacharya lived in Vraja for sometime and preached devotion of Sri Krishna (Pushtimarga). The Image of Srinathji emerged from Govardhana. Sri Vallabhacharya built the first temple of Srinathji in Govardhana and performed the seva of the Lord.

○ Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486 – 1534 CE): Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited Vraja during his pilgrimage and spread devotion of Sri Krishna through his Sankirtans (Gaudiya Vaishnavism).

○ Sanatana Goswami (1488–1558 CE): Sri Sanatana Goswami came to Vraja, being instructed by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to discover the sites associated with Sri Krishna.

○ Rupa Goswami (1489–1564 CE): Sri Rupa Goswami came to Vraja, being instructed by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to discover the sites associated with Sri Krishna.

○ Meerabai (1497 – 1557 CE): Sri Meerabai visited Vraja and worshipped Sri Krishna (Meera Bhajans).

○ Swami Haridas (16th Century): Swami Haridas lived in Nidhivan and practised devotion of Sri Krishna. The Banke Bihari idol was found by Haridas Thakur in Nidhivan.

कृष्णाय वासुदेवाय देवकी नन्दनाय च ।
नन्दगोप कुमाराय गोविन्दाय नमो नमः ॥
– Krishnaya Vasudevaya (Sri Krishna abides in Gokul as the son of Devaki and Nanda)

मुरारिकायकालिमाललामवारिधारिणी तृणीकृतत्रिविष्टपा त्रिलोकशोकहारिणी ।
मनोऽनुकूलकूलकुञ्जपुञ्जधूतदुर्मदा धुनोतु मे मनोमलं कलिन्दनन्दिनी सदा ॥
– Yamunashtakam – verse 1 (River Yamuna flows through Gokul)

(Srimad Bhagavatam)
(Garga Samhita)

▬ Devi Yogamaya incarnating in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 3)
▬ Sri Krishna appearing as the son of Yashoda in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 5)
▬ Sri Krishna killing Putana and liberating her in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 6)
▬ Sri Krishna killing demon Trinavarta in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 7)
▬ Sri Krishna showing mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouth in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 8)
▬ Sri Krishna allowing mother Yashoda to bind him in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 9)

• Temples and Places:

• Temples and Places of Sri Krishna in Gokul:

• Devi Yogamaya incarnating in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 3)
Devi YogamayaMahavan Yogamaya Temple► Gokul – Mahavan Yogamaya Temple
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Yogamaya Temple of Mahavan (Old Gokul) is identified with the place where Devi Yogamaya incarnated in Gokul.

• Sri Krishna inspiring Vasudeva to exchange Him with Yogamaya
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 3)
• Sri Krishna appearing as the son of Yashoda in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 5)
Sri Krishna and VasudevaChild Krishna► Gokul – Gokul and Mahavan
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

Gokul is identified with two places.
1. Gokul or New Gokul. (with Nand-Yashoda Bhavan or Nand Mahal)
2. Mahavan or Old Gokul (with Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple).

Sri Krishna stealing butterNanda Yashoda Bhavan, Gokul, Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh► Gokul – Gokul Nand-Yashoda Bhavan or Nand Mahal
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Nand-Yashoda Bhavan of Gokul (New Gokul) is identified with the house of Nanda where Sri Krishna and Sri Balarama grew up.

Within the Nand-Yashoda Bhavan are Images of:
1. Sri Balarama (Sri Balarama was transferred from the womb of Devaki at Mathura to the womb of Rohini at Gokula)
2. Devi Yogamaya (Devi Yogamaya incarnated as the daughter of Yashoda in Gokul)
3. Sri Krishna (Sri Krishna was exchanged by Vasudeva with Devi Yogamaya)
4. Nand and Yashoda
Sri Krishna stealing butterNanda Bhavan, Mahavan (Chaurasi Khamba temple), Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh► Gokul – Mahavan Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Nand Bhavan or Chaurasi Khamba Temple of Mahavan (Old Gokul) is also identified with the house of Nanda where Sri Krishna and Sri Balarama grew up.

• Sri Krishna killing Putana and liberating her in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 6)
Sri Krishna killed Putana and liberating herGokul Putna Uddhar Sthal► Gokul – Gokul Putna Uddhar Sthal
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Nand-Yashoda Bhavan of Gokul (New Gokul) has a room where Putna Uddhar (Moksha) is depicted.
Sri Krishna killed Putana and liberating herMahavan Putna Temple► Gokul – Mahavan Putna Temple
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

Mahavan (Old Gokul) has a Putna Temple where Putna Uddhar (Moksha) is depicted.

• Sri Krishna showing mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouth in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 8)
Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouthGokul Yashoda Ghat► Gokul – Gokul Yashoda Ghat
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Yashoda Ghat at Gokul (New Gokul) is identified with the place where Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the entire universe inside his mouth.
Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouthMahavan Brahmanda Ghat► Gokul – Mahavan Brahmanda Ghat
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Brahmanda Ghat at Mahavan (Old Gokul) is identified with the place where Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the entire universe inside his mouth.

• Sri Krishna allowing mother Yashoda to bind him in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 9)
• Sri Krishna liberating Nalakuvara and Manigriva (as Arjuna Trees) from a curse in Gokula
(Srimad Bhagavatam – Skanda 10 – 10)
Sri Krishna allowed mother Yashoda to bind himMahavan Ukhal Bandhan AshramMahavan Ukhal Bandhan AshramMahavan Ukhal Bandhan Ashram► Gokul – Mahavan Ukhal Bandhan Ashram
(Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

The Ukhal Bandhan Ashram at Mahavan (Old Gokul) is identified with the place where Sri Krishna was tied by mother Yashoda to a Ukhal (Mortar). Sri Krishna also liberated Nalakuvara and Manigriva in this place. So this is also known as Yamalarjuna Uddhar Sthal.

Prayaga: Sage Bharadwaja had his hermitage in Prayaga at the confluence of rivers Ganga and Yamuna.
○ Sri Rama visited the Bharadwaja Ashrama at Prayaga during forest exile (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Sri Rama revisited the Bharadwaja Ashrama at Prayaga while returning from forest exile (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Prayagraj – Bharadwaj Ashram (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh)

Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sage Vishwamitra bestowed Bala and Atibala mantras to Sri Rama (to overcome hunger and fatigue) while going through Koshala.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Tataka Vanam where Rama slayed demoness Tataka.
• Sage Vishwamitra bestowed divine weapons to Sri Rama at Tataka Vanam.
• Sri Rama protected the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Gautama Ashrama (Mithila Upavana) where Rama delivered Devi Ahalya.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Mithila where Rama heard the story of the appearance of Devi Sita.
• Sage Vishwamitra took Sri Rama to Mithila where Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva and thereafter married Devi Sita.

◍ Pilgrimages:
► Buxar – Vamaneshwar Dham (Buxar district, Bihar): Identified with Siddhashrama which was a temporary hermitage of sage Vishwamitra.

Tataka Vanam, Buxar district, Bihar► Buxar – Tataka Vanam
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Tataka Vanam is identified with the Tataka Forest where Sri Rama slayed demoness Tataka and received divine weapons from sage Vishwamitra.

Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar► Buxar – Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama)
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham is identified with Siddhashrama where Sri Rama heard about Vamana Avatara and protected the yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

Ahilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, BiharAhilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, Bihar► Mithila – Darbhanga Ahilya Asthan
(Darbhanga district, Bihar)

Ahilya Asthan of Darbhanga is identified with the place where Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama.

Appearance of Devi Sita from EarthPunaura Dham, Sitamarhi district, Bihar► Mithila – Sitamarhi Punaura Dham
(Sitamarhi district, Bihar)

Punaura Dham of Sitamarhi is identified with the place where Devi Sita appeared when king Janaka was ploughing the field.

Appearance of Devi Sita from EarthJanaki Temple, Sitamarhi district, Bihar► Mithila – Sitamarhi Janaki Temple
(Sitamarhi district, Bihar)

Janaki Temple of Sitamarhi is also identified with the place where Devi Sita appeared when king Janaka was ploughing the field.

Sri Rama breaking bowSri Rama marrying Devi SitaJanakpur Janki Temple, Dhanusha district, Nepal► Mithila – Janakpur Janaki Temple
(Dhanusha district, Nepal)

Janki Temple of Janakpur Dham is identified with the palace of king Janaka where Sri Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva.

Siddhashrama: Sri Rama protecting the yagna of sage Vishwamitra:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 30 to 31)

Sri Rama protecting Yagna► कौशिकमखसंरक्षक राम् (Kaushika-Makha-Samrakshaka Raam) : Who protected the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama protecting the yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama.

• Sri Rama protecting the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama: After entering Siddhashrama, sage Vishwamitra took the vow of silence to complete a yagna. The other sages told Rama and Lakshmana to guard the yagna for six days and nights from demons who come to create obstacles in the yagna. Sri Rama guarded the yagna for six days and nights. On the last day two demons named Mareecha and Subahu appeared from the sky with an array of demons to stop the yagna. They started pouring spates of blood and tried to destroy the ritual completely. Sri Rama aimed a Manava Astra towards Mareecha and with it flung him hundred yojanas away inside the ocean. With Agneya Astra Sri Rama killed demon Subahu. With Vayavya Astra Sri Rama repelled all the other demons.

• Sri Rama spending a night at Siddhashrama: The yagna of Vishwamitra was thus protected. The sages praised Sri Rama. Vishwamitra said that Rama had kept the honour of Siddhashrama (the hermitage of accomplishment) because his yagna also got accomplished here on that day. Sri Rama and Lakshmana spent that night in that hermitage.

Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar, Bihar- Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama) (Buxar district, Bihar)

Meditation:
– Rama: I meditate on Sri Rama slaying demoness Tataka in Tataka Vanam.
– Rama: I meditate on Sri Rama hearing the story of the incarnation of Vamana Avatara from sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama.
– Rama: I meditate on Sri Rama protecting the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama.

घोरताटकाघातक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verse 9 (Sri Rama slayed demoness Tataka in Tataka Vanam)

मारीचादिनिपातक राम् ॥ कौशिकमखसंरक्षक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 10 and 11 (Sri Rama protected the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra in Siddhashrama)

• Buxar (Buxar district, Bihar)

• Greatness:

Sri Rama in Tataka ForestLord VamanaRama protecting Yagna• (Buxar) Tataka Vanam is primarily a Rama Sthalam (Pilgrimage of Rama):
– Sri Rama visited Tataka Vanam with sage Vishwamitra and slayed demoness Tataka. Sri Rama also received divine weapons from sage Vishwamitra in this place.

• (Buxar) Siddhashrama is primarily a Vamana Sthalam (Pilgrimage of Vamana):
– Lord Vishnu performed penance in Siddhashrama for many years and descended as Lord Vamana. Sage Kashyapa and Devi Aditi performed penance here and got Vamana as their son.

• Siddhashrama is also a Rama Sthalam (Pilgrimage of Rama):
– Sri Rama visited Siddhashrama with sage Vishwamitra and heard the story of the Vamana Avatara of Lord Vishnu. Sri Rama also protected the Yagna of sage Vishwamitra in this place from demons and made it successful.

• Siddhashrama is also a Rishi Sthalam (Place of Rishis):
– Sage Vishwamitra had his hermitage in Siddhashrama for sometime and performed a Yagna in this place with the assistance of Sri Rama.

• Sacred Geography:

☸ Tataka Forest (Puranic)
☸ Siddhashrama was a forested hermitage region.

• Temples and Places:

• Temples and Places of Sri Rama in Tataka Vanam:

• Sri Rama slaying demoness Tataka
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 24 to 26)

• Sri Rama receiving divine weapons from sage Vishwamitra
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 26 to 28)
Tataka Vanam, Buxar district, Bihar► Buxar – Tataka Vanam
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Tataka Vanam is identified with the Tataka Forest where Sri Rama slayed demoness Tataka and received divine weapons from sage Vishwamitra.

• Temples and Places of Lord Vamana in Siddhashrama:

• Sri Rama hearing the story of Vamana Avatara at Siddhashrama
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 28 to 29)
Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar► Buxar – Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama)
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham is identified with Siddhashrama where Sri Rama heard about Vamana Avatara and protected the yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

• Temples and Places of Sri Rama in Siddhashrama:

• Sri Rama hearing the story of Vamana Avatara at Siddhashrama
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 28 to 29)

• Sri Rama protecting the yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 30 to 31)
Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar► Buxar – Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama)
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham is identified with Siddhashrama where Sri Rama heard about Vamana Avatara and protected the yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

• Temples and Places of Sages in Siddhashrama:

• Sri Rama protecting the yagna of sage Vishwamitra at Siddhashrama
(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 30 to 31)
Vamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, BuxarVamaneshwar Dham, Charitravan, Buxar► Buxar – Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham (Siddhashrama)
(Buxar district, Bihar)

Buxar Vamaneshwar Dham is identified with Siddhashrama where Sri Rama heard about Vamana Avatara and protected the yagna of sage Vishwamitra.

Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama in the erstwhile Gautama Ashrama on the outskirts of Mithila.

◍ Association with Lord Shiva: (Shiva Purana) (Skanda Purana – Arunachala Mahatmya)
• Sage Gautama performed penance in the Brahmagiri Mountain meditating on Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva relieved Gautama from the false accusation of brahmanas and released river Gautami Ganga (Godavari).
• Sage Gautama told the glory of Arunachala Kshetra (Arunachala Mahatmya) to Devi Parvati before She performed penance there.

◍ Pilgrimages:
► Mithila – Ahilya Asthan (Darbhanga district, Bihar): Identified with the hermitage of sage Gautama.
► Nashik – Tryambakeshwar (Nashik district, Maharashtra): The place where sage Gautama brought river Godavari on Earth.

Ahilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, BiharAhilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, Bihar► Mithila – Darbhanga Ahilya Asthan
(Darbhanga district, Bihar)

Ahilya Asthan of Darbhanga is identified with the place where Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama.

Lord ShivaTryambakeshwar JyotirlingaTryambakeshwar JyotirlingaTryambakeshwar Jyotirlinga► Nashik – Tryambakeshwar Temple
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Nashik Tryambakeshwar Temple is identified with the Tryambakeshwara Jyotirlinga mentioned in the Shiva Purana.

Mithila upavana – Gautama Ashrama: Sri Rama delivering Devi Ahalya from her curse:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Bala Kanda – 48 to 49)

Sri Rama delivering Devi Ahalya from curse► श्रीमदहल्योद्धारक राम् (Shrimad-Ahalya-Uddharaka Raam): Who delivered Devi Ahalya from her curse

• Meditation:: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the erstwhile hermitage of sage Gautama at the outskirts of Mithila and delivering Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama.

• Sri Rama hearing about the hermitage of sage Gautama:: When Sri Rama came to the outskirts of Mithila, he saw a hermitage which was uninhabited, but yet charming to look at. Sri Rama asked the eminent sage Vishwamitra whose hermitage it was. Sage Vishwamitra told that the hermitage with a divine glow, which was adored even by gods, belonged to the great-souled Gautama. In this hermitage, sage Gautama of great renown, performed Tapas for many years, and lived with Devi Ahalya.

• Sri Rama hearing about the curse of Devi Ahalya:: Sri Rama heard the story of Indra desiring Devi Ahalya and subsequent curse pronounced on Ahalya by sage Gautama. When sage Gautama was not there in the hermitage, Indra, also known as Sahashraksha, the husband of Devi Sachi, came there in the guise of sage Gautama. Indra told Ahalya: “O beautiful one, do not wait for the Ritukala; I want union with you now”. Even though, Devi Ahalya knew that he was Indra in the guise of Muni, she decided to satisfy his desire. After satisfying his desire, she felt contented and said to Indra: O best of gods, go away now, and protect yourself and me from sage Gautama. When Indra was leaving the hermitage, sage Gautama of great ascetic power, came there, holding samidha and kusha grass in his hands. On seeing sage Gautama, Indra became highly scared. Sage Gautama in great rage cursed Indra: “O evil-minded one, taking my guise you have performed a great misdeed. Hence you will not be able to produce children in future”. Due to the curse of sage Gautama, the testicles of Indra fell on the ground at that very moment. Then sage Gautama cursed Devi Ahalya: “You will lay on the floor of this hermitage, unseen by others, for many thousands of years, consuming air alone, till the unassailable Rama, the son of Dasharatha comes here and purifies you. O woman of ill behaviour, when you welcome Sri Rama, you will become free of Lobha (Desire) and Moha (Delusion), and regain your form”. Then sage Gautama abandoned the hermitage and went to the Himalayas for Tapas. (Thereafter Indra, through a sacrificial ritual and with the help of Agni deva got the testicles of a ram).

• Sri Rama delivering Devi Ahalya from her curse:: When Sri Rama entered the hermitage of sage Gautama, the curse of Devi Ahalya ended and she became visible again. Ahalya, of great beauty, who was performing Tapas till then (for thousands of years), consuming air alone, flared like a sacrificial fire due to her austerity. Seeing her (as a great ascetic), Rama and Lakshmana touched her feet. Remembering the words of sage Gautama, Devi Ahalya welcomed them and offered Arghya and Padya (Water for washing hand and feet). Sri Rama accepted her hospitality. Then there was a shower of flowers from heaven along with divine music. Then sage Gautama happily united with Devi Ahalya and adored Sri Rama.

Ahilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, BiharAhilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, Bihar- Mithila (Darbhanga district, Bihar).

Mithila Kshetra – Where Devi Sita incarnated and Mithila Shakti Peetha:

– Mithila (Shakti Peetha)
(Darbhanga district, Bihar)
(Sitamarhi district, Bihar)
(Madhubani district, Bihar)
(Dhanusha district, Nepal)

▬ Rivers Dudhmati, Jalad, Rato, Balan and Kamala surround Janakpur
(Middle Ganga Plain)
(Nepal-Bihar Terai Region)

Devi SitaAppearance of Devi Sita from Earth
Appearance of Devi
Sita from Earth

Sitamarhi Janaki Temple
Sitamarhi Janaki
Temple

Sitamarhi Punaura Dham
Sitamarhi Punaura
Dham

Sri Rama and Devi Ahalya
Sri Rama delivering
Devi Ahalya

Darbhanga Ahilya AsthanAhilya Asthan, Darbhanga district, Bihar
Darbhanga Ahilya
Asthan

Buxar Ahirauli
Buxar Ahirauli

Sri Rama breaking bow
Sri Rama breaking
bow

Sri Rama marrying Devi Sita
Sri Rama marrying
Devi Sita

Janakpur Janki Temple
Janakpur Janki
Temple

Janakpur Sita-Rama Vivaha Mandap
Janakpur Sita-Rama
Vivaha Mandap

Devi Durga
Devi Durga
(Shakti Peetha)

Madhubani Uchhaith Devi Vana Durga
Madhubani Uchhaith
Devi Vana Durga
(Mithila
Shakti Peetha)

Begusarai Devi Jaya Mangala
Begusarai Devi
Jaya Mangala
(Mithila
Shakti Peetha)

Saharsa Devi Ugratara
Saharsa Devi
Ugratara
(Mithila
Shakti Peetha)

Sage Gautama
Sage Gautama

• Sita: Devi Sita appeared from Earth in Mithila and was adopted by king Janaka as his daughter. Devi Sita grew up in Mithila in the palace of king Janaka.
– Darbhanga Ahilya Asthan – Buxar Ahirauli

• Rama: Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya from the curse of sage Gautama on the outskirts of Mithila.
– Janakpur Janaki Temple – Janakpur Dhanusha Dham

– Sri Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva in Mithila.
– Sri Rama married Devi Sita in Mithila.
– Janakpur Janaki Temple – Janakpur Dhanusha Dham

• Devi: Devi abides in Mithila as Mithila Shakti Peetha.
– Madhubani Uchhaith Devi Vana Durga – Begusarai Devi Jaya Mangala – Saharsa Devi Ugratara

• Sages: Sages associated with Mithila:

○ Gautama: Sage Gautama had his hermitage in the Upavana of Mithila where Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya.

○ Shatananda: Sage Shatananda (the son of sage Gautama and Devi Ahalya) had his hermitage in Mithila, being the kulaguru of king Janaka.

श्रीमदहल्योद्धारक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verse 12 (Sri Rama delivered Devi Ahalya on the outskirts of Mithila)

त्र्यंबककार्मुकभञ्जक राम् ॥ सीतार्पितवरमालिक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 18 to 19 (Sri Rama broke the bow of Lord Shiva and married Devi Sita in Mithila)

रत्नावल्यां दक्षस्कन्धः कुमारी भैरवः शिवः ।
मिथिलायामुमा देवी वामस्कन्धो महोदरः ॥
– Shakti Peetha Stotram – verse 47 (Mithila has the Mithila Shakti Peetha where the Vama Skanda of Devi had fallen)

Mithila: Sage Shatananda had his hermitage in Mithila being the kulaguru of king Janaka.
○ Sri Rama heard the story of sage Vishwamitra from sage Shatananda in Mithila (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Mithila – Janakpur Janaki Temple (Dhanusha district, Nepal)

Lineage: Brahma > Marichi > Kashyapa > Varuna > Valmiki

Sage Valmiki◍ Association with Sri Rama: (Valmiki Ramayana)
• Sage Valmiki getting divine inpiration to compose Ramayana.
• Sri Rama visited the Valmiki Ashrama while entering Chitrakoota during his forest exile. Sage Valmiki welcomed him cordially.

◍ Compositions:
• Valmiki Ramayana: Life of Sri Rama written in Sanskrit.

◍ Pilgrimages:
► Chitrakoota – Valmiki Ashrama (Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh): Identified with the hermitage of sage Valmiki.

Sage ValmikiValmiki Ashrama, Chitrakoot, Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh► Chitrakoot – Valmiki Ashram
(Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh)
(Valmiki Ashram lies on the Uttar Pradesh side of Chitrakoot)

The Valmiki Ashram is located in Lalapur, Karwi which is around 28 km from Chitrakoot Ramghat.

Chitrakoota: Sri Rama visiting the Valmiki Ashrama while entering Chitrakoota:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Ayodhya Kanda – 56)

Rishi Valmiki• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the Valmiki Ashrama while entering Chitrakoota.

• Sri Rama visiting the Valmiki Ashrama at Chitrakoota: After spending a night on the bank of river Yamuna on the outskirts of Chitrakoota, the following morning Sri Rama took bath in that holy river. After taking bath Sri Rama along with Lakshmana and Devi Sita walked through a beautiful forested region. The forest region had trees filled with flowers and fruits and honey-combs hanging from the trees. It resounded with the cries of peacocks and many other birds. After walking for some distance they saw the beautiful Chitrakoota mountain. They first visited the hermitage of sage Valmiki. The sage welcomed them cordially.

Sage ValmikiValmiki Ashrama, Chitrakoot, Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh► Chitrakoot – Valmiki Ashram
(Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh)
(Valmiki Ashram lies on the Uttar Pradesh side of Chitrakoot)

The Valmiki Ashram is located in Lalapur, Karwi which is around 28 km from Chitrakoot Ramghat.

► Chitrakoot (Shakti Peetha)
(Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh)
(Satna district, Madhya Pradesh)

☗ Chitrakoota Mountain
☸ Chitrakoota Forest (Puranic)
▬ River Mandakini (Payaswini) flows
– Ram Ghat – Raghav Prayag Ghat – Bharat Ghat – Raj Ghat
(Bundelkhand)
(Baghelkhand)

(Valmiki Ramayana)
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra)

Sri Rama in Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot

Ram Ghat
Ram Ghat (Tulsidas)
(River Mandakini)

Ram Ghat
Ram Ghat
(River Mandakini)

Sri Kamtanath Temple, Chitrakoot, Satna district, Madhya Pradesh
Kamtanath Temple

Bharat Milap, Chitrakoot, Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh
Bharat Milap

Hanuman Dhara, Chitrakoot
Hanuman Dhara

Maihar Devi Sharada
Maihar Sharada

Sage Valmiki
Sage Valmiki

Sage Atri
Sage Atri

Sri Tulsidas
Tulsidas (Ram Ghat)

• Rama: Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Valmiki while entering Chitrakoota.
– Sri Rama stayed in Chitrakoota during forest exile in a Parna Shala (Leaf Hut). During his stay in Chitrakoota, Sri Rama described the beauty of Chitrakoota Mountain and river Mandakini to Devi Sita.
– Sri Rama gave his Padukas to Bharata in Chitrakoota.
– Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Atri and Devi Anusuiya while leaving Chitrakoota.
– Ram Ghat – Parna Kuti Mandir – Janaki Kund – Sphatik Shila – Kamadgiri Hill – Kamtanath Temple – Lakshman Pahari – Bharat Milap Temple – Bharat Koop – Sita Rasoi – Gupta Godavari

• Hanuman: Bhakta Hanuman abides in Chitrakoota in Hanuman Dhara. It is said that after Hanuman set Lanka on fire, Sri Rama pacified his anger in Hanuman Dhara.
– Hanuman Dhara

• Devi: Devi abides in Chitrakoota as Ramagiri Shakti Peetha.
– Kamadgiri Hill – Maihar Sharada

• Sages: Sages associated with Chitrakoota:

○ Valmiki: Sage Valmiki had his hermitage in Chitrakoota where Sri Rama visited during forest exile (while entering Chitrakoota).
– Valmiki Ashrama

○ Atri: Sage Atri and Devi Anusuiya had their hermitage in Chitrakoota where Sri Rama visited during forest exile (while leaving Chitrakoota).
– Atri-Anusuiya Ashrama

• Saints: Saints associated with Chitrakoota:

○ Tulsidas (1532 – 1623 CE): Sri Tulsidas was born in Rajapur of Chitrakoota. Sri Tulsidas composed part of the Ramcharitmanas in Chitrakoota. Sri Tulsias also got the darshan of Totamukha Hanuman and Sri Rama in Ram Ghat of Chitrakoota.
– Rajapur – Ram Ghat

चित्रकूटाद्रिनिकेतन राम् ॥ कैकेयीतनयार्थित राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 30 and 32 (Sri Rama stayed in the Chitrakoota mountain-forest and met Bharata there)

विरचितनिजपितृकर्मक राम् ॥ भरतार्पितनिजपादुक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 33 and 34 (Sri Rama performed the last rites of his father in Chitrakoota and gave his padukas to Bharata)

शोणाख्या भद्रसेनस्तु नर्मदाख्ये नितम्बकः ।
रामगिरौ स्तनान्यञ्च शिवानी चण्डभैरवः ॥
– Shakti Peetha Stotram – verse 37 (Chitrakoot has the Ramagiri Shakti Peetha where the Stana of Devi had fallen)

Dandakaranya: Sri Rama entering the Dandakaranya forest and seeing the hermitages of sages:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 1)

Sri Rama travelling during forest exile► दण्डकवनजनपावन राम् (Dandakavana-Jana-Pavana Raam): Who purified the Dandakaranya forest (by his presence and by slaying the demons).

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama entering the Dandakaranya forest and seeing the hermitages of sages.

• Sri Rama entering the Dandakaranya forest: Sri Rama entered the Dandakaranya forest and saw a cluster of hermitages of sages nestled within the sacred environment of Vedic tradition. The sages welcomed him and sought his protection.

• Sri Rama spending a night: Sri Rama spent a night there.

Dandakaranya: Sage Suteekshna had his hermitage inside the Dandakaranya forest.
○ Sri Rama visited the Suteekshna Ashrama in Dandakaranya forest (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Sri Rama revisited the Suteekshna Ashrama in Dandakaranya forest after 10 years
(Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Dandakaranya – Suteekshna Ashram (Satna district, Madhya Pradesh)

Dandakaranya: Sri Rama visiting the Suteekshna Ashrama in the Dandakaranya forest:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 7 to 8)

Sri Rama visiting hermitages of sages► शरभङ्गसुतीक्ष्णार्चित राम् (Sharabhanga-Sutikshna-Arcita Raam): Who was adored by sage Sharabhanga and sage Suteekshana (when he visited their hermitages).

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama the Suteekshna Ashrama in the Dandakaranya forest.

• Sri Rama visiting the Suteekshna Ashrama: Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Suteekshna in the Dandakaranya forest. The sage cordially welcomed him saying that he was waiting for him. He offered the fruits of his penance to Sri Rama who refused and asked only for a place of stay. Sage Suteekshna suggested his own hermitage but told about the problem of herds of wild animals visiting that place. Sri Rama spent a night there and decided to move on. Sage Suteekshna told him to come back again after seeing all the hermitages.

Dandakaranya: Sri Rama revisiting the Suteekshna Ashrama in the Dandakaranya forest:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 11)

Sri Rama visiting hermitages of sages► शरभङ्गसुतीक्ष्णार्चित राम् (Sharabhanga-Sutikshna-Arcita Raam): Who was adored by sage Sharabhanga and sage Suteekshana (when he visited their hermitages).

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama revisiting the Suteekshna Ashrama in the Dandakaranya forest.

• Sri Rama revisiting the Suteekshna Ashrama: Sri Rama revisited the hermitage of sage Suteekshna after spending ten years in various other hermitages within the Dandakaranya forest.

• Sri Rama enquiring about Agastya Ashrama: During his second visit, Sri Rama asked sage Suteekshna the direction of the hermitage of sage Agastya. Sage Suteekshna happily told Sri Rama how to reach the hermitage of sage Agastya.

► Dandakaranya
(Satna district, Madhya Pradesh)
(Panna district, Madhya Pradesh)
(Bastar division, Chhattisgarh)

☸ Dandakaranya Forest
(Baghelkhand) (Entry region to Dandakaranya)
(Bastar Plateau) (Core Dandakaranya)
(Dandakaranya Highlands) (Core Dandakaranya)

Sri Rama in forestSri Rama staying in the Dandakaranya forest
Sri Rama in forest

Sri Rama and demon Viradha
Sri Rama and Viradha

Sage Sharabhanga
Sage Sharabhanga

Sharbhang AshramSharbhang Ashram
Sharbhang Ashram

Suteekshna AshramSuteekshna Ashram
Suteekshna Ashram

Ankai Agastya AshramAnkai Agastya Ashram
Ankai Agastya
Ashram

• Rama: Sri Rama stayed in the Dandakaranya forest for ten years during his forest exile and visited the hermitages of many sages. Sri Rama slayed many demons in Dandakaranya who were tormenting the sages.
– Sri Rama encountered demon Viradha inside the Dandakaranya forest.
– Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Sharabhanga inside the Dandakaranya forest.
– Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Suteekshna inside the Dandakaranya forest.
– Sri Rama heard about sage Mandakarni living in the Pancha Apsara Lake inside the Dandakaranya forest.
– Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Agastya’s brother (near Panchavati) situated in the fringes of the Dandakaranya forest.
– Sri Rama visited the hermitage of sage Agastya (near Panchavati) situated in the fringes of the Dandakaranya forest.

• Sages: Sages associated with Dandakaranya:

○ Sharabhanga: Sage Sharabhanga had his hermitage in the Dandakaranya forest which Sri Rama visited during his forest exile.

○ Suteekshna: Sage Suteekshna had his hermitage in the Dandakaranya forest which Sri Rama visited during his forest exile.

○ Agastya’s brother: Sage Agastya’s brother had his hermitage in the Dandakaranya forest (near Panchavati) which Sri Rama visited during his forest exile.

○ Agastya: Sage Agastya had his hermitage in the Dandakaranya forest (near Panchavati) which Sri Rama visited during his forest exile.

दण्डकवनजनपावन राम् ॥ दुष्टविराधविनाशन राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 35 and 36 (Sri Rama entered the Dandakaranya forest and destroyed demon Viradha)

शरभङ्गसुतीक्ष्णार्चित राम् ॥ अगस्त्यानुग्रहवर्धित राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 37 and 38 (Sri Rama visited the hermitages of sages Sharabhanga, Suteekshna and Agastya in the Dandakaranya forest)

Dandakaranya: Sri Rama visiting the Pancha Apsara Lake in the Dandakaranya forest:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 11)

Sri Rama travelling during forest exile• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the Pancha Apsara Lake and hearing about sage Mandakarni.

• Sri Rama visiting the Pancha Apsara Lake: Sri Rama visited the Pancha Apsara lake during his forest exile after visiting the Suteekshna Ashrama (first visit). From that lake was emanating melodious songs and music. Sri Rama heard from sage Dharmavrita the story of sage Mandakarni marrying five Apsaras and living within that lake. (After this Sri Rama stayed in various hermitages of sages in Dandakaranya for ten years).

Sri Rama visiting the Ashrama of sage Agastya’s brother near Panchavati
Dandakaranya: Sri Rama visiting the Ashrama of sage Agastya’s brother near Panchavati:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 11)

Sri Rama visiting hermitages of sages• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the Ashrama of sage Agastya’s brother near Panchavati.

• Sri Rama starting for Agastya Ashrama: Sri Rama started for Agastya Ashrama (from Suteekshna Ashrama) and reached near the hermitage of the brother of sage Agastya. On the way Sri Rama told the legend of demons Ilvala and Vatapi whom sage Agastya vanquished to save the brahmanas.

• Sri Rama visiting the hermitage of the brother of sage Agastya: Sri Rama visited the hermitage of the brother of sage Agastya and spent a night there.

Sri RamaPanchavati: Sri Rama stayed in the Panchavati forest (located on the bank of river Godavari) in a Parnashala.
○ Sri Rama stayed the in the Panchavati forest during forest exile (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Nashik Panchavati – Juni Parnakuti (Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Panchavati: Sri Rama staying in the Panchavati forest:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 15 to 16)

Sri Rama staying at Panchavati► पञ्चवटीतटसुस्थित राम् (Panchavati-Tatta-Susthita Raam): Who abided at Panchavati on the bank of river (Godavari).

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama staying in the Panchavati forest.

• Sri Rama staying in the Panchavati forest: Sri Rama reached Panchavati from Agastya Ashrama. River Godavari flowed in that place. Lakshmana built a beautiful cottage (parna shala). Seeing the cottage Sri Rama was filled with joy and embraced Lakshmana. One day while going for bath on river Godavari, Lakshmana described the beauty of the Hemanta Ritu to Sri Rama.

Triveni Sangam, NashikRam Kund, NashikRam Kund, Nashik► Nashik – Ram Kund
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Ram Kund is the holy bathing ghat of Panchavati on River Godavari. It is believed that Sri Rama bathed here during forest exile. It is also the place for performing rituals and devotional contemplation.

Panchavati, Nashik, Nashik district, MaharashtraPanchavati, Nashik, Nashik district, MaharashtraPanchavati, Nashik, Nashik district, MaharashtraPanchavati, Nashik, Nashik district, MaharashtraPanchavati, Nashik, Nashik district, Maharashtra► Nashik – Panchavati (Five Banyan Trees)
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

The area of Panchavati has Five Banyan Trees and hence the name Panchavati.

Sita Gupha► Nashik – Sita Gupha
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Sita Gupha is believed to be the cave where Devi Sita lived and worshipped a Shiva Linga. It is also said that Devi Sita was abducted by Ravana from this place.

Juni ParnakutiJuni Parnakuti► Nashik – Juni Parnakuti
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Juni Parnakuti is identified with the place where Sri Rama stayed during his forest exile. The Lakshman Rekha as river is near this place.

Ram Vanavas Sthan, NashikLakshman Mandir, NashikGodavari Kapila Sangam, Nashik► Nashik – Tapovan
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

Tapovan is the area in Panchavati at the confluence of rivers Godavari and Kapila. It is said that in ancient times the sages meditated in this place. It is also the place where Lakshmana is said to have cut off the nose of demoness Shurpanakha.

► Nashik (Jyotirlinga) (Shakti Peetha) (Place of Kumbha Mela)
(Nashik district, Maharashtra)

☗ Brahmagiri Hills (Tryambakeshwar)
☗ Saptashrungi Hills (Saptashrungi Gadh)
☗ Anjana Hills (Anjaneri)
► River Godavari Udgam (Tryambakeshwar)
▬ River Godavari flows → Ram Kund (Aarti)
◉ Aruna – Varuna – Godavari Triveni Sangam (near Panchavati)
◉ Godavari – Kapila Sangam (near Panchavati)
• River Godavari Ghats: Ram Kund – Lakshman Kund – Sita Kund – Ashti Vilay Kund – Dhanushya Kund – Khandova Kund – Indra Kund
☸ Panchavati Forest (Puranic)
☘ Five Banyan Trees (Panchavati)
(Maharashtra Ghats)
(Maharashtra Plateau)
(Shiva Purana)
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra)
(Devi Bhagavatam)
(Valmiki Ramayana)
(Brahma Purana)

Tryambakeshwar JyotirlingaTryambakeshwar Jyotirlinga
Tryambakeshwar
Jyotirlinga

Devi SaptashrungiDevi Saptashrungi
Devi Saptashrungi

Panchavati
Panchavati

Triveni Sangam
Triveni Sangam

Ram Kund
Ram Kund

Kapaleshwar Mahadev
Kapaleshwar Mahadev

Dutondya MarutiDutondya Maruti
Dutondya Maruti

Banyan Tree 1
Five Banyan Trees

Sita Gupha
Sita Gupha

Juni Parnakuti
Juni Parnakuti

Kalaram Mandir
Kalaram Mandir

Ram Vanavas Sthan
Ram Vanavas Sthan

Lakshman Mandir
Lakshman Mandir

Godavari Kapila Sangam
Godavari Kapila
Sangam

Anjaneri TempleAnjaneri Temple
Anjaneri Temple

Devi Godavari
Devi Godavari

Sage Gautama
Sage Gautama

Ankai Agastya AshramAnkai Agastya Ashram
Ankai Agastya Ashram

Taked Sarva Teertha JatayuTaked Sarva Teertha Jatayu
Taked Sarva Teertha
Jatayu Temple
• Shiva: Lord Shiva relieved sage Gautama from the false accusation of brahmanas, released river (Gautami) Ganga and abides as Tryambakeshwara Jyotirlinga.
– Tryambakeshwar Jyotirlinga
At Panchavati:
– Kapaleshwar Mahadev
– Baneshwar Mahadev
– Karpureshwar Mahadev
– Pataleshwar Mahadev
– Nilkanteshwar Mahadev
– Naroshankar

• Devi: Devi abides in Nashik Janasthana as Janasthana Shakti Peetha (identified with Devi Saptashrungi).
– Devi Saptashrungi

• Rama: Sri Rama stayed in the Panchavati forest during the forest exile (identified with Nashik).
– Sri Rama slayed demons Khara and Dushana while staying in the Panchavati forest.
– Sri Rama went after the golden deer in the Panchavati forest.
– Devi Sita was abducted by Ravana from the Panchavati forest.
– Ram Kund
– Prachin Ram Mandir
– Prachin Goreram Mandir
– Panchavati (Five Banyan Trees)
– Kalaram Mandir
– Sita Gufa
– Parna Kutir
– Lakshman Rekha
– Sita Haran Mandir
– Lakshman Sheshnag Mandir
– Ram Vanavas Sthan

• Vishnu: There are some Vishnu Temples at Panchavati.
– Sundar Narayan Mandir
– Lakshmi Narayan Mandir

• Hanuman: Bhakta Hanuman is said to have taken birth in the Nashik Anjana Hills (which is identified as one of his birthplaces). This is as per Brahma Purana – Gautami Mahatmya.
– Anjaneri (Identified as birth place of Hanuman) (10 km from Tryambakeshwar)
– Dutondya Maruti
– Katya Maruti

• Godavari: River Godavari originates from Brahmagiri Hills in Nashik. There is a temple of Devi Godavari in the foothills.
– Godavari Temple

• Others:
– Taked Sarva Teertha Jatayu Temple (50 km from Nashik)

• Sages: Sages associated with Nashik:

○ Gautama: Sage Gautama performed penance on the Brahmagiri Mountain worshipping Lord Shiva and brought river Godavari (Gautami Ganga) on Earth. This is the event associated with Tryambakeshwara Jyotirlinga.

○ Agastya: Sage Agastya had his hermitage in Dandakaranya near Panchavati where Sri Rama visited during his forest exile. Sage Agastya suggested Sri Rama to live in Panchavati.
– Ankai Agastya Ashram (100 km from Nashik)

वाराणस्यां तु विश्वेशं त्र्यंबकं गौतमीतटे ।
हिमालये तु केदारं घुश्मेशं च शिवालये ॥
– Dwadasa Jyotirlinga Stotra – verse 3 (Nashik has the Tryambakeshwara Jyotirlinga on the foothills of the Brahmagiri Hills)

चिवुके भ्रामरी देवी विकृताक्षो जनस्थाने । गण्डो गोदावरीतीरे विश्वेशी विश्वमातृका ॥
दण्डपाणिभैरवस्तु वामगण्डे तु राकिणी । भैरवो वत्सनाभस्तु तत्र सिद्धिर्न संशयः ॥
– Shakti Peetha Stotram – verses 45 and 46 (Nashik has the Janasthana Shakti Peetha where the Civuka of Devi had fallen)

पञ्चवटीतटसुस्थित राम् ॥ शूर्पणखार्तिविधायक राम् ॥ खरदूषणमुखसूदक राम् ॥
सीताप्रियहरिणानुग राम् ॥ मारीचार्तिकृदाशुग राम् ॥ विनष्टसीतान्वेषक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 40 to 45 (Nashik has the Panchavati where Sri Rama stayed during the forest exile and from where Devi Sita was abducted by Ravana)

गृध्राधिपगतिदायक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verse 46 (Nashik has the Janasthana region where Sri Rama met the dying Jatayu and performed his last rites)

सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गाल्ये ब्राह्मि माहेश्वरि शुभे ।
वैष्णवि त्र्यम्बके देवि गोदावरि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥
– Godavari Stuti – verse 1 (River Godavari flows through Panchavati)
(Shiva Purana)

Vindhya region: Hanuman meeting ascetic Swayamprabha in the Riksha Cavity:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Kishkindha Kanda – 50 to 52)

Bhakta Hanuman• Meditation: I meditate on Bhakta Hanuman meeting ascetic Swayamprabha in the Riksha Cavity.

• Hanuman entering Riksha cavity and meeting ascetic Swayamprabha: The time allotted by Sugreeva passed in searching the Vindhya region and Devi Sita was still not found. Filled with hunger and thirst, one day the vanaras came to the entrance of Riksha cavity. They saw trees inside and waterfowls exiting with body drenched in water. Even though apprehensive, the vanaras entered the cavity on the advice of Hanuman. After passing through darkness, they came to a place of light which was filled with golden trees, lakes and mansions. There they see a saintly lady. Hanuman enquired the lady about the cave. The saintly lady introduced herself as Shyamprabha, the daughter of Merusavarni. She said that the cave was created by demon Maya. However Indra killed Maya when he was engaged in affairs with an apsara named Hema. Brahma bestowed that cave to Hema and she was safeguarding that place for her friend Hema. Shyamprabha extended her hospitality to the vanaras and asked about their purpose. Hanuman told their purpose and requested her to help them to exit the cavity. Since exiting the cavity alive is not possible, Shyamprabha used her ascetic power and transported the vanaras to the southern shore near mount Prasravana (in Vindhya mountain range).

Pampa Sarovar: Sri Rama visiting Matanga Ashrama near Pampa Sarovar and meeting Shabari:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Aranya Kanda – 74)

Sri Rama meeting Sabari► शबरीदत्तफलाशन राम् (Shabari-Datta-Phala-Ashana Raam): Who ate the fruit given by Shabari as an offering of devotion.

• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the Matanga Ashrama near the Pampa Sarovar and meeting Shabari.

• Sri Rama visiting the Matanga Ashrama and meeting Shabari: Sri Rama visited the Matanga Ashrama near Pampa Sarovar and met Shabari, a lady of great asceticism. Shabari, who was waiting for Sri Rama, worshipped him and showed him the places in the ashrama sanctified by her spiritual masters (who had left their bodies and ascended to the divine realm, predicting that Sri Rama will come there). Upon arrival of Sri Rama her ascesis became accomplished and she also ascended to the divine realm casting her body in the presence of Sri Rama.

► Kishkindha (Anegundi) (Hampi) (Pancha Sarovar)
(Koppal district, Karnataka)
(Vijayanagara district, Karnataka)
(Ballari district, Karnataka)

☗ Rishyamuka Parvata
☗ Matanga Parvata
☗ Malyavanta Parvata (Mount Prasravana)
☗ Anjaneya Parvata or Anjanadri
▬ River Tungabhadra flows
◼ Pampa Sarovara
◼ Sita Jhil (Rishyamuka Parvata region)
(Karnataka Plateau)

(Valmiki Ramayana)

Sri Rama and Shabari
Sri Rama meeting
Shabari

Shabari Kolla
Shabari Kolla

Hanuman carrying Sri Rama
Sri Rama meeting
Hanuman

Pampa DeviPampa Sarovara
Pampa Sarovar

Sri Rama meeting Sugreeva
Sri Rama meeting
Sugreeva

Rishyamuka ParvataSugreeva Gufa
Rishyamuka Parvat

Anjana and Hanuman
Anjana and Hanuman

Anjanadri Parvata
Anjanadri Parvat
• Rama: Sri Rama met Shabari near the Pampa Sarovar in Kishkindha.
– Sri Rama met Hanuman in the Pampa Sarovar in Kishkindha.
– Sri Rama (through Hanuman) made friendship with Sugreeva at Rishyamuka Parvat in Kishkindha.
– Sri Rama slayed Vali in Kishkindha and made Sugreeva the king of Kishkindha.
– During the stay of Sri Rama in Kishkindha, Sugreeva sent Vanaras in various directions to search for Devi Sita.
– Shabari Kolla (Belagavi district, 200 km from Hampi)
– Pampa Sarovar (Anegundi, Koppal district)
– Rishyamuka Parvat (Hampi, Vijayanagara district)
– Sugreeva Gufa (Hampi, Vijayanagara district)
– Sita Jhil (Hampi, Vijayanagara district)
– Vali Kila (Anegundi, near Durga Betta)
– Vali Gufa (Anegundi, near Durga Betta)
– Malyavanta Raghunatha Temple (7 km from Hampi, Ballari district)
– Sphatik Shila (7 km from Hampi, Ballari district)

• Devi: Devi abides in Kishkindha Pampa Sarovar as Pampa Devi.
– Pampa Sarovar (Anegundi, Koppal district)
– Durga Betta (Anegundi)

• Hanuman: Bhakta Hanuman is said to have taken birth in Anjanadri of Kishkindha as the son of Anjana and Wind-god. This is one of the places identified with the birth of Bhakta Hanuman. This is as per the Valmiki Ramayana.
– Anjaneya Parvata or Anjanadri (Anegundi)

• Sages: Sages associated with Kishkindha:

○ Matanga: Sage Matanga had his hermitage in Kishkindha where Sri Rama visited and met Shabari.
– Shabari Kolla (Belagavi district, 200 km from Hampi)
– Matanga Ashrama (Pampa Sarovar)
– Matanga Parvata (Hampi)

शबरीदत्तफलाशन राम् ॥ कबन्धबाहुच्छेदक राम् ॥
हनुमत्सेवितनिजपद राम् ॥ नतसुग्रीवाभीष्टद राम् ॥
गर्वितवालिसंहारक राम् ॥ वानरदूतप्रेषक राम् ॥
राम् राम् जय राजा राम् । राम् राम् जय सीता राम् ।
– Nama Ramayana – verses 47 to 52 (Sri Rama visited Kishkindha and met Shabari and Hanuman; made friendship with Sugreeva and slayed Vali; the search for Devi Sita began from here)

Kishkindha: Sages Saptajana (seven sages) had their hermitage in the Kishkindha region.
○ Sri Rama visited the Saptajana Ashrama in Kishkindha (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Note: The Saptajana Ashrama was located in the Kishkindha region.

Kishkindha: Sri Rama visiting the Saptajana Ashrama while going to Kishkindha:

(Valmiki Ramayana – Kishkindha Kanda – 13)

Sri Rama• Meditation: I meditate on Sri Rama visiting the Saptajana Ashrama while going to Kishkindha.

• Sri Rama seeing the Saptajana ashrama while going to slay Vali: On the way to Kishkindha, Sri Rama saw the Saptajana ashrama where seven sages performed penance with their heads upside-down for seven hundred years and attained the heavenly realm. The ashrama shined with a divine aura. Sri Rama offered salutations to the sages with joined palms

• Sri RamaKishkindha: Sri Rama stayed in Kishkindha in Mount Prasravana during four months of the rainy season and thereafter till Hanuman returned with the news of Devi Sita.
○ Sri Rama stayed in Kishkindha in Mount Prasravana during the rainy season (Valmiki Ramayana)
○ Kishkindha – Malyavanta Raghunath Temple (Ballari district, Karnataka)