Did you know that Mumbai has its very own version of Varanasi? At Walkeshwar’s Banganga Tank, the spiritual energy is just as captivating, especially during Dev Diwali.
Every year on Dev Diwali, Banganga comes alive as hundreds of oil lamps are lit around the ancient tank, creating a magical glow. The celebration isn’t just for Dev Diwali—it also marks Kartik Poornima, Tripurari Poornima, and Guru Parv, making it a truly special time to visit.
The legend of Banganga is fascinating. It is believed that Lord Ram, while searching for Sita, stopped here and created a shivling out of sand. Surrounded by the sea and without any sweet water for rituals, Lord Ram shot an arrow into the ground, and a fresh water spring appeared—hence the name ‘Ban’ (arrow) Ganga. This underground stream still flows today. The temple where Lord Ram established the shivling is called Walkeshwar, and the area is now better known as Malabar Hill.
Walkeshwar is a place of contrasts. Ancient temples and traditional Marathi and Marwari families have been rooted here for generations, while some of Mumbai’s wealthiest residents now live in the luxurious buildings next door.
I was fortunate to witness the Dev Diwali celebrations organized by the GSB Temple Trust, who also manage the Walkeshwar Temple and Banganga Tank. The entire evening was truly mesmerizing—a blend of devotion, tradition, and community spirit right in the heart of Mumbai.
If you ever find yourself in Mumbai during Dev Diwali, don’t miss the chance to experience this magical celebration at Walkeshwar. It’s a reminder that the city’s spiritual heart beats just as strongly as its modern one.