A glimpse into the divine
The Kalaram Temple stands as one of the city's most revered Hindu shrines. Dedicated to the venerated Lord Rama, this temple's name derives from its distinctive feature: a remarkable black stone idol of the deity himself. "Kalarama" in Hindi translates to "black Rama," a fitting name for the temple that holds this stunning idol.
The temple's architecture is a testament to the skill and devotion of its creators. Constructed entirely from black stone, the temple soars to a height of 70 feet, its majestic presence enriched by a gold-plated peak that weighs a remarkable 32 tons. This remarkable masterpiece is a fusion of craftsmanship and spirituality, a true testament to the dedication of its builders.
Stepping into history
The Kalaram Temple's significance extends beyond its architectural splendour. According to the ancient epic Ramayana, the temple's location marks the very spot where Lord Rama resided during his exile. This historical connection lends the temple an air of antiquity, a living bridge between the past and the present.
Legends intertwined with the temple's history recount tales of trials and triumphs. During the reign of Muslim rulers, the temple faced destruction, and in an effort to protect the sacred idol, it was cast into the Godavari river. The temple's revival came through the visionary dream of Sardar Rangarao Odhekar of Peshwa, who orchestrated a remarkable expedition to retrieve the idol and lead the construction of the present-day temple. The arduous efforts of over 2,000 workers resulted in a temple that still stands today as a testament to their dedication.
