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Maharashtra Kala Ram Temple
The Kala Ram temple is a large old structure in the Panchvati region of Nasik city in Maharashtra, India. It is the most important and renowned shrine in the city. This holy pilgrimage site draws attention of millions of visitors. The temple’s name is derived from the black statue of Lord Rama. The literal meaning of Kala Ram is black Rama. Sardar Odhekar from Peshwa built this temple in 1788. One of the main attractions of the temple is its incredible architecture. It is completely built through black stones, having four doors facing each direction.
History
It is believed that Sardar Odhekar had a dream of a black color statue of Rama flowing in the Godavari River. After taking out the statue from the river he built the temple. The place where he found the statue was named as Ramkund. Kala Ram Temple had a pivotal role in the Dalit movement in India when Dr. Ambedkar held a protest for allowance of Dalits into the temple.
Architecture
The building is held in the middle of a wall enclosed with 96 gigantic pillars. Entrance to the temple is made through an arched portal located in the east. The Kalash in the temple is made up of 32 tons of gold. About 200 years ago the stones for construction were brought from Ramshej. It took 12 years and more than 2000 workers to construct the temple. Stones which were extracted from the mines of Ramshej hill created this 70 feet high incredible structure.
Significance of the Temple
The devotees visit this temple for worshipping idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. All these idols are sandy black in color and decorated with ornaments. A nearby site is the ‘Sita gumpha’. It is said that Devi Sita stayed here during her exile. A grove of large Banyan trees is present near the cave. Kalaram temple is surrounded by other small temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman and Lord Vithala.
Accomodation near the Temple
Both Cheap and luxury accommodation can be found within a few kilometres distance from Kala Ram temple. Hotels can also be booked by tour operators of this region. Hotels may be full during festival season.
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