Divine Naaroshankar Mandir Panchavatee, Naasik Shahar, Naasik

If someone cannot keep a secret and spreads it around immediately, that person is often referred to as the ‘Naroshankar Bell’. This is because it is said that the sound of this bell travels as far as 10 kos (approximately 30 kilometers) in a matter of moments. The temple that houses this bell, mentioned in this idiom, is named the ‘Rameshwar Temple’. Located in the Panchavati area of Nashik, on the banks of the Godavari, this is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Mahadeva. However, it is far more famous as the ‘Naroshankar Temple’ than the ‘Rameshwar Temple’.

Nashik is a city with a rich history and references in the Puranas! Consequently, it is home to a multitude of temples. This temple is built on the banks of the Godavari River, which was sanctified by the presence of Lord Shriram, in the Panchavati area. Devotees of Lord Shiva gather here in large numbers on Shravani Mondays and Mahashivratri. There is a steady flow of devotees on other days as well.

Sardar Naroshankar Raje Bahadur of Nashik built this temple in the year 1747. At that time, a staggering 18 lakh rupees were spent on its construction. This temple is a fine example of 17th-century architecture. Artisans were brought from Rajasthan and Gujarat to build it. The temple is constructed in the Hemadpanti as well as the traditional Nagara architectural style. The temple’s architectural style is also referred to as the ‘Maya’ style. The surrounding walls of the temple feature carvings of the eternal serpent (Akshay Naga), which signifies Lord Shiva’s control over time. A sturdy stone wall was erected around the temple to ensure the sanctity of the temple remains undisturbed and to protect it from floods. Rajput-style pavilions, known as ‘Meghadambari’, have been erected on all four sides of the temple. The central Naroshankar temple draws attention from afar due to its spire. A special feature of this temple is that it incorporates architectural styles prevalent in various parts of India!

The temple has two entrances. One can enter the temple premises through the riverfront gate in the stone wall. Various idols can be seen in small niches along the wall. There are wide steps leading into the temple. The temple follows a traditional layout consisting of a Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). Since the temple is situated on a slightly elevated platform, one first reaches the Nandi Mandap after climbing the steps. After offering prayers to Nandi, one enters the Sabha Mandap. The Sabha Mandap features carvings of various deities. At the entrance, there is an exquisitely crafted idol of Lord Ganesha seated on a throne. Ornate windows have been carved into the Sabha Mandap to allow sufficient light. The entrance to the Garbhagriha also features excellent craftsmanship. The Shivling inside the Garbhagriha is very ancient. It is said that Sardar Naroshankar Raje Bahadur would begin his day only after worshipping it. A fish sculpture is carved at the outlet where the water from the Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shivling flows out.

The main spire of the Naroshankar Temple is 26 meters high and is adorned with carvings of mythological scenes, elephants, and lions. Many sculptures and idols are also carved on the exterior of the temple. There is also a sculpture of peacocks wearing pearl necklaces on the temple. There are carvings of elephants on the back and two other sides of the temple. Replicas of tigers and monkeys are also carved onto the temple structure.

The bell hanging on the Naroshankar Temple, which serves as a symbol of the Marathas’ victory, has not only become an idiom in the Marathi language but has also become an integral part of Nashik’s cultural life. Cast in 1721, this bell was originally in a church at Vasai Fort. It is a large bell made of bronze by Portuguese artisans. The clapper of this bell weighs 10 kilograms. This bell is a symbol of the victory achieved by Chimaji Appa Peshwa, brother of Thorle Bajirao Peshwa, against the Portuguese in Vasai in 1738. After winning that war, a total of three bells were brought to Maharashtra. One is at the Naroshankar Temple in Nashik, the second is at the Bhimashankar Temple, and the third is at the Bhairavnath Temple in Saswad.

This bell on the Naroshankar Temple remains in good condition today and is a focal point for tourists and devotees. After settling in Nashik in 1757, Naroshankar installed it at the temple entrance. This bell has also been used as the emblem of the Nashik Municipal Corporation. The image of this bell can be seen on every document of the Municipal Corporation. It is said that when the Godavari River flooded in 1969, the water touched the bell, causing it to ring. Even today, this bell is recognized as the ‘gauge of the Godavari floods’. A grand festival is held at the temple on Mahashivratri. On that day, the temple is beautifully decorated. From early morning, rituals such as Mahapuja, Maha Aarti, and Abhishek begin in the temple.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery