AHILYANAGAR

Ahmednagar, a city in Maharashtra, is named after Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah I, who founded the town in 1494. This location holds historical significance as the site of a battle where Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah I defeated the Bahmani forces, leading to the establishment of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate, part of the Deccani Sultanates. Before that, the city was known as Bhinar during the early Yadava period. The name "Pathardi" is believed to derive from "Parth," a name associated with Arjuna, a central figure in the epic Mahabharata. The narrative suggests that during his travels, Arjuna encountered Prince Babhruvahan, the son of Arjuna, who challenged him in battle and was ultimately defeated. It is said that Arjuna shed tears at this location, which led to the naming of the place as "Pathardi," translating to "the place where Parth cried." Moreover, Sangamner, located in Ahmednagar, derives its name from the confluence of three rivers in the area: the Pravara, Mhalungi, and Adhala.

Recently, BJP leader Gopichand Padalkar, a prominent figure in the Dhangar community, advocated for renaming Ahmednagar to Ahilyanagar. The Dhangar community holds Ahilyabai Holkar, a beloved queen, in high regard, as both she and her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, were part of this community. 

The surnames Nagarkar and Nagarwalla originate from the Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra, India. The name Nagarkar combines nagar (meaning "city") and kar (meaning "belonging to"), signifying "one who belongs to the city." Similarly, Nagarwalla means "someone from Nagar," with walla indicating association with a place.

In the Kedareshwar Cave, the renowned Sant Changdev spent countless hours in intense meditation, seeking enlightenment. As he sat cross-legged in front of the enormous Shiva Linga, water flowing at his feet, he engraved his knowledge into the rock, his words a witness to the Brhamaand's (universe) timeless truths. However, Changdev's stay at Harishchandragad was not without its hardships. He had discovered a horrible truth, a curse that had haunted the fort since time unknown. The four pillars that supported the cave, each symbolizing a different Yuga, held the key to this curse. As the ages passed, the pillars crumbled one by one, signaling the end of one period and the start of another.

As Changdev explores the fort's mysteries further, he realizes that the curse is more than a metaphor; it is a genuine force that threatens to swallow those who dare to question it. He realized he needed to find a method to interrupt the cycle and save the final pillar from falling, ushering in the end of the Kali Yuga.

Changdev headed out with an increased desire to discover the curse's secrets, his mind racing with possibilities. He studied old writings, read mysterious inscriptions, and communicated with the very components that comprised the fort itself. As he did so, he began to comprehend the full nature of the curse and the price required to break it.

Finally, Changdev proved to be the key to breaking the curse. Through his unshakable belief and profound knowledge of life's essence, he could move beyond the constraints of time and space, becoming a living incarnation of the timeless truths he had carved into the rock. As the final pillar of the Kedareshwar Cave collapsed to dust, Changdev's ghost remained, guarding the fort and providing hope to all who attempted to solve the mysteries of the past.

In the 16th century, Ahmednagar was ruled by the Nizam Shahi dynasty. The kingdom was thriving, but its affluence also drew jealous glances. Among them was the mighty Mughal Empire, which aimed to expand its borders.

Chand Bibi, or Chand Sultana, was Husain Nizam Shah I's daughter. She married into the Bijapur Sultanate and returned to Ahmednagar after her husband died to maintain her own family. Chand Bibi was known for her beauty and intelligence, but she was also an outstanding fighter and a cunning strategist.

The Mughals began marching on Ahmednagar, led by Emperor Akbar's general. The kingdom was at risk, and the court was in chaos. Chand Bibi stood straight amidst the uproar. She made a resolute decision to command the defense.  Chand Bibi put on her armor, mounted her horse, and roused the soldiers. She rode through the streets of Ahmednagar, inspiring courage in both military and civilians.

The Mughal forces laid siege to the Ahmednagar Fort. The fort withstood the constant attacks for months together, but supplies were depleted and morale was low. However, Chand Bibi remained persistent. She created a plan to end the siege, on a moonless night, under cover of night, Chand Bibi led a daring raid on the Mughal camp. With a small band of loyal warriors, she struck swiftly but covertly causing surprise and panic among the enemy forces. The Mughals were caught off guard and retreated in chaos.

When the Mughals regrouped and struck again, Chand Bibi used her diplomatic abilities. She arranged a brief truce, allowing the kingdom to bolster its defences.

The Mughals returned with more force, and the situation became terrible. Chand Bibi then made the ultimate sacrifice. In a final act of defiance, she climbed the fort's tower, playing the war drum and rousing her troops for one final stand. Her bravery and leadership left a permanent mark on the hearts of the people, and while the fort eventually fell, Chand Bibi's memory lived on.

The name Karngram is associated with Karna, a prominent figure from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Karna is celebrated for his generosity and valour; he was the son of Kunti and Surya. A loyal friend to Duryodhana, the Kaurava prince, Karna  fought alongside the Kauravas during the Kurukshetra War against the Pandavas. Locals believe that Karna traversed this region during his journeys, where he performed numerous charitable acts and established a village named Karngram.

A long time ago, in a place now called Rashin, there was an asur named Rakthabeeja who caused a lot of trouble. He possessed a special power: every time a drop of his blood fell to the ground, a new asur would emerge. This made it seemingly impossible to defeat him.The people of Rashin prayed to Jagdamba Devi for help. Hearing their pleas, Jagdamba decided to come to Earth and save them. She rode into battle on a lion and fought Rakthabeeja fiercely. As she wounded him, his blood fell, creating more asurs. Jagdamba devised a new plan and instructed her helper, Kali, to drink Rakthabeeja’s blood before it could hit the ground. Kali complied, preventing new asurs from being born. Together, Jagdamba and Kali defeated Rakthabeeja and restored peace to Rashin. To thank Jagdamba, the people of Rashin built a beautiful mandir at the site of his defeat. During festivals like Navratri, the mandir is filled with celebrations.

(From the book “Grandpa's Tales of Ahmednagar” by Sukumar Chatterjee)

Sukumar and his pals agreed to take a picnic to Bhingar, a nearby village, one bright afternoon. They packed snacks and drinks and rode out on their bicycles, eager for a day of adventure. When they arrived at Bhingar, the guys visited the small village, admiring the mud houses and pleasant locals. They discovered an old well and decided to try their hand at pulling water. Sukumar volunteered to go first, cautiously lowering the bucket down using the rope.

When he pulled the bucket back up, he was surprised to see a snake coiled inside! The guys jumped back in fright, forgetting their picnic. Riyaz took a long stick and prodded the snake, attempting to get it out of the well. However, the snake was tenacious and refused to leave its watery home.

An old man came by and noticed the disturbance. He laughed when he noticed the lads' fearful expressions. "Don't worry, that's just Nagoba, the guardian snake of our well," he told us. "He brings good luck and protects the water." Relieved, the boys resumed their picnic, eating on snacks and playing games under the shade of a banana tree. As the sun began to set, they unwillingly returned home, their clothing dirty but their hearts full of good memories.

Years later, when Sukumar recalled that picnic in Bhingar, he remembered the pleasant locals, the cool well water, and, most importantly, the guardian snake who watched over the town. It was a simple yet magnificent day that summed up small-town life in Ahmednagar.

(From the book “Grandpa's Tales of Ahmednagar” by Sukumar Chatterjee)

Sukumar and Riyaz came across an abandoned bungalow in Ahmednagar that had an eerie feel to it, with local youngsters claiming it was haunted. Cautiously entering the dilapidated structure, they heard a loud creaking noise coming from upstairs.  Though Riyaz wanted to leave, Sukumar suggested they investigate further.

Climbing the creaking steps, they spotted a shadowy figure in one of the rooms, causing Riyaz to scream in horror. However, Sukumar silenced him, and they were surprised to find an elderly man seated in the room, appearing ill or senile.

Realizing the "haunted" bungalow was actually the home of a lonely, neglected old man, Sukumar and Riyaz decided to help him. They cleaned his house, cooked him a meal, and promised to check on him regularly. What was once seen as a haunted cottage had become evidence of the boys' kindness and compassion towards a forgotten member of their community.

Sai Baba, a humble and compassionate saint, lived in the small village of Shirdi. He wore a simple cloak and resided in a small home, but his heart overflowed with love for all living beings. People travelled far and wide to seek his guidance.

Among the locals was a young boy named Arjun, who lived with his mother. They were poor but content, finding joy in life's simplest pleasures. Arjun enjoyed listening to Sai Baba's discourses and frequently visited him at the masjid.

When Arjun's mother fell gravely ill, despite their best efforts, she showed no signs of improvement. Worried and anxious, Arjun approached Sai Baba for help. With a compassionate heart, Baba gently placed his hand on Arjun's head and reassured him, "Don't worry, my child. Your mother will be fine soon. Have faith."

The next day, a stranger arrived at their doorstep with a basket of luscious mangoes, explaining that they were from Sai Baba. Arjun's mother, despite her frailty, ate a mango and felt a strange warmth and vitality coursing through her body. She gradually regained her strength and was soon back to her former self. The villagers were amazed by the miracle and flocked to Sai Baba. Baba's fame grew, but he remained humble, serving everyone with the same love and compassion.

When Arjun asked Baba how he knew that his mother needed the mangoes to recover, Sai Baba smiled and replied, "Bhagwaan works in mysterious ways, my child. It was not the mangoes, but the faith and love with which they were presented, that provided healing. Always remember that true miracles occur when we believe and trust."

One day, a farmer named Gopal visited Sai Baba with a sorrowful heart. His harvests had failed, leaving him in debt. Feeling forlorn, he sought Baba's advice.  Sai Baba listened to Gopal's concerns and handed him a broken brick, telling him, "Take this home and keep it safe. Don't lose faith; good things will come your way." Gopal was confused, but he did what Baba directed. He brought the broken brick home.

Days stretched into weeks, yet nothing appeared to change. Despite this, Gopal maintained confidence in Baba's words. One day, while ploughing his field, Gopal hit something hard. Digging deeper, he discovered a concealed chest containing gold coins and exquisite jewelry. Gopal ran back to Baba, overwhelmed with thanks, to tell him the good news. Sai Baba smiled and continued, "Gopal, faith and patience are the most valuable virtues. The shattered brick represents your broken spirit, and by remaining faithful, you have repaired it. Now, your life is wealthy, not only because of your wealth but also because of the power of your faith."

One rainy season, the mosque where Sai Baba lived developed a leak in the ceiling. Water dripped continuously, making it impossible for Baba to meditate and the visitors to sit properly. One day, a wealthy trader named Ramlal visited Shirdi and observed the state of the Masjid. He wanted to help.

Ramlal approached Sai Baba, offering to repair the roof. "Baba," he asked, "please let me mend the roof. It hurts me to see you in such distress." Sai Baba smiled and replied, "Ramlal, if that is your wish, please proceed. But keep in mind that the most important thing to repair is our souls, not the roof." He went ahead with the repairs despite being baffled by Baba's words. He hired workmen and purchased materials, and the roof was restored to its original condition in a matter of days. Ramlal was proud of his contribution and expected appreciation from Baba.

To his amazement, Sai Baba made no mention of the repair at all. Days passed, and Ramlal became restless. He finally approached Baba again and inquired, "Baba, are you not happy with the new roof?" Sai Baba looked at Ramlal with loving eyes and said, "Ramlal, your intentions were good, but true charity requires humility and selflessness." You performed a noble act, but you must learn to let go of your ego and expectations. "The real work is to repair the leaks in our hearts—greed, pride, and selfishness." Ramlal felt humbled by Baba's remarks. He realized that his charitable effort had been tarnished by his desire for recognition. He thanked Sai Baba for the instruction and promised to practice true humility and selflessness in the future.

The Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary is located in the Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. This protected refuge is home to a herd of majestic blackbucks. But the blackbucks of Rehekuri are more than just animals to the locals; they are considered Devtas, embodiments of an ancient, mysterious power that has guarded this country for millennia.

In this context, blackbuck are more than just animals; they are guardians, teachers, and living manifestations of devtas. Villagers speak about the blackbuck's abilities, how the males' curved horns can fend against evil, and how the females' soft eyes house the wisdom of the ages. Even now, the people of Rehekuri are passionately protective of the blackbuck. They vigilantly guard the sanctuary's perimeter, chasing away any poachers who might jeopardise the herd. When a blackbuck is born, the entire town gathers to rejoice, as it is considered a blessing.

According to locals, the mandir was built by the Kalachuri dynasty in the 6th century CE. In the 14th century, the great sage Changdev stayed at the fort and spent time meditating at the mandir, where he also wrote the Tatvasaar.

The mandir is situated in a cave and houses a 5-foot Shiva Lingam surrounded by waist-deep, ice-cold water. What makes the Kedareshwar Cave mandir particularly fascinating are the four pillars that surround the Lingam. Each of the four pillars represents one of the four Yugas or cosmic ages: Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga. The pillars are said to change in height as the Yugas progress, with one pillar breaking at the end of each Yuga. Currently, only one pillar remains standing, representing the Kali Yuga.There is a widespread belief among the people of India that when the final pillar breaks, it will signify the end of the world. The water surrounding the Shiva Lingam is also believed to change temperature throughout the year, being icy cold in summer and lukewarm in winter.

Mohata Devi is the gramdevat (presiding devi) of Pathardi village in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. According to local beliefs, Renukadevi (also known as Yallamma or Yellamma), an avatar of the Hindu mother Shakti, appeared in Mohata village to protect and ensure the well-being of the villagers. This is why Mohata Devi is considered swayambhu, meaning self-arisen or self-manifested. It is believed that the villagers do not sell dahi, ghee, or milk within the village; these products are only consumed after being offered to the Devi first.

A popular tale recounts that the villagers were once wrongly accused of stealing black buffaloes that had wandered into the village. In response, the villagers prayed to Mohata Devi and fasted for several days. Impressed by their honesty, the Devi transformed the black buffaloes into white buffaloes.