Banganga
Tank, situated on the Malabar Hill of South Mumbai, forms a part of the
temple complex of Walkeshwar. Constructed by the rulers of the Silhara
dynasty, the tank dates back to the 12th century. However, it got worn
down because of the ravages of time and was reconstructed in the year
1715. The construction of the Banganga Tank was financed out of the
donation provided for the Walkeshwar Temple by Rama Kamath. The source
of the tank comprises of a spring, which keeps it replenished throughout
the year.One of the major attractions of Banganga Tank is the Banganga Music Festival, which is organized every year in the month of February. During this time, the entire tank is washed, cleaned and decorated beautifully. The music festival is organized by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and lasts for two days. It aims at promoting Hindustani classical music amongst the masses. The festival witnesses performances from virtuosos as well as amateurs in the field of music.
There is an interesting legend associated with the Banganga Tank, situated in the Bombay city of India. It goes that thousands of years back, Lord Rama came to this area in search of his kidnapped wife, Sita. Tired from his search, he stopped in the area where the tank now stands and asked his brother, Lakshman, to bring some water. It is believed that Lakshman shot an arrow into the ground to get water for his elder brother. The exact spot where the arrow stuck and water oozed out, is today the Banganga Tank.
A very interesting feature of the Banganga Tank is that though it is located only a few meters away from the sea, its water is always fresh and never becomes saline. It is basically a pool structure, built in the form of a rectangle, which stands surrounded by steps on all the four sides. Adorning the entrance of the Banganga Tank are two magnificent pillars, which were used for lighting oil lamps (diyas), in the ancient times. On its western side, one can find an ancient temple built by the Silhara kings.
