Banganga Tank

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On the dates back to the 12th century, Banganga Tank which is located on the Malabar Hill of South Mumbai forms a part of the temple complex of Walkeshwar, which is built by the rulers of the Silhara empire. However, it got worn down because of the ravages of time and was reconstructed in the year 1715. The building 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 main attractions of Banganga Tank is the Banganga Music Festival, which is celebrated every year in the month of February. During this time, the entire tank is washed, cleaned and bedecked wonderfully. The music festival lasts for two days and is organized by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). It aims at promoting Hindustani classical music amongst the masses. The festival witnesses performances from experts as well as part-timers in the field of music.

As per the interesting anecdote associated with the Banganga Tank, -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 attractive characteristic of the Banganga Tank is that though it is situated only a few meters away from the sea, its water is always clean and never becomes brackish. It is basically a pool structure, built in the form of a rectangle, which stands surrounded by steps on all the four sides. On its western side, one can find an ancient temple built by the Silhara kings.