Submerged temples resurface after 34 years in Nashik

Dozens of submerged temples have resurfaced in Nashik after 34 years as stretches of river Godavari passing through a village dried up due to ongoing drought in the region.

Last time the residents of Chandori village in Maharashtra had seen this happen was in 1982 when the area witnessed a drought of such magnitude.

The locals have started worshipping the idols in the shrines.

The temples, which are reportedly dated back to the 13th century, had submerged after Nandur Madhyameshwar dam was built on Godavari River in 1907.

"This village has existed for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was known as 'Chandravati' and today it is called Chandori. In this place there are 12 Shiva Lingam (a phallus representation of Lord Shiva). Prayers have been held here since the era of Lord Ram Chandra," said Muley, a priest said.

The shrines resemble Hemadpanthi style architecture and according to the villagers, each temple has a Shiva Lingam.

The residents want these idols to be kept in a museum considering their historical importance.

Drought in many parts of the country has hit rice, cotton and other crops, and lower world commodity prices have added to the farmers' plight.

According to a state government report, at least 200 farmers committed suicide in the last two-and-a-half months in the drought-hit Marathwada region of Maharashtra, owing to their inability to pay off their loan-related debts.