Gokarna, Karnataka
March 2014
The inexpensive Goa for the common man and the college students. Why the limelight on college students? Very simple! When you have Goa withdrawal and you really can’t afford it, you make a trip to Gokarna.
Lately I have been fascinated with mythological books thanks to Devdutt Patnaik. I have previously mentioned about Ram and Ravana in my haunted post (no pun here people). The folklore further takes a step into Gokarna. It is said that Ravana was a big devotee of lord Shiva. To showcase his devotion, he decided to perform a recital of Shivatandavastrotam using the musical instrument called as Ravanahatha, which is basically a complicated mixture of cello and violin.
As a gift for his dedication and devotion, a Atma linga was given to him, so powerful that once it has been placed in a city, it will render the place with invulnerability. Shiva instructed Ravana never to place the linga on ground since once established, it can not be moved.
A blessing for one, can be a curse for another. It’s like the universal law of all mythologies. Ravana was known for his punctuality with regards to his evening rituals. As he was nearing Gokarna, Vishnu obscured the sun with Sudarshan chakra. As a result Ravana decided to go for his prayers. But before leaving, he entrusted a Brahmin boy (Lord Ganesha in disguise) with the linga to be carried in his arms only. Ganesha agreed to do so under one condition, that he would carry the Atma linga as long as he can bear the weight, and thereafter he would call out for Ravana three times. If he fails to come by then, then the linga will be placed on ground. And this is exactly what happened. As a result, Ravana tried to extract the linga from the ground but ended up throwing the pieces to Surathkal, Dhaneshwar, Gunavanteshwar, Murudeshwar and Shejjeshwar.
Beyond the fascinating stories, the main reason one should venture to Gokarna is for the beaches.
We decided to go to Kudle beach instead of the most popular Om beach. The popular concept of beach shacks are there in abundance, and some of these shacks also cater cheap accommodation. You can spend the night with a bonfire and chilled beer on the beach itself. Lot of music and good company, doesn’t that sound like a perfect life?
To end the trip, don’t forget to make a stop at the infamous Namaste Cafe, located at Om beach. The food is extraordinarily delicious, and the view of Om beach will keep you good company.
Other hotspots:
1) Mahabaleshwar temple, housing the infamous Atma linga (from above) with inscriptions depicting the enormous strength of Ravana
2) Maha Ganapati temple, in honour of Ganesha for tricking the demon king
3) Marvanthe beach
Related (and not-so related) Posts:
The Lost Coordinates 