God nose why they call it Nashik.

In the 60s and 70s, one of the highlights of train journeys was the tinny staccato beat that hypnotizes you, when negotiating a bridge.

And, nothing came close to the the time it took to cross the 4.2 kms of Godavari bridge at Rajahmundry.

The vast expanse of water was fascinating and I would spend the entire duration plastered to the window, gathering a few kilograms of coal dust into my eyes.

This mighty Godavari starts its journey at the holy city of Nashik.

They say it was here that Lakshman, the loyal sibling to Mr. Rama, chopped off the nose of a Lady who was making inappropriate advances at his brother.

Hence, the name.

Pandu Lena caves- Mini Ellora...

This city is hosting the Maha-kumbh in August 15.

The faithful do not need to wait till then to flock to the holy city of Trimbhakeswar, and neither do people with an itch to scratch, er.... sketch.

 I needed no goading to wake up at 0430 hrs, pack my Lamy and Moleskine, grab the Fuji XE1 by the collar, and say good morning to the Sayadris.

The Kund to bathe in before visiting Jyotirlinga

The short span of time available before getting back to work, could not be divided between offering prayers to the Gods in the temples and doodling on site.

You have to choose one over another.

The main temple, from the road.

I choose the doodling.

Will that displease the Gods? God nose.....

PS:

The XE-1, too,  delivered the goods and will be posted at....

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