Pavithra Ring - Nashik, Maharashtra
The city Nashik is the headquarters of Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is the third largest district of Maharashtra. It is surrounded by Aurangabad district to the southeast, Jalgaon district towards the east, Dhule district to the north, Dangs district towards the northwest, Valsad and Navsari districts of Gujarat towards the west, Thane district to the southwest and Ahmadnagar district towards south. Towards the western edge of Deccan Plateau (known for volcanic formation) and to the northern part of Maharashtra state is where the Nashik located. The river Godavari flows through the central part of the city. Apart from Godavari River other rivers like Kashyapi River, Darana River, Girana River, Vaitarana River and Bhima River flows through Nashik.
Nashik was the part of Maratha Union ruled by Maratha Peshwa during 18th century. Thus the district has several old hill forts, sights of many activities during the Anglo-Maratha Wars. The region is known for mountains and hills. It is abundant in fruits and vegetables. The yield of strawberries, grapes and onions at Nashik is highest in country. People here are well known for cultural art, literature and food. Making of Pavithra ring is one of the major fascinations of Nashik. It is one of the outstanding artistic marvels of Nashik. Pavithra ring gets a divine dimension awing to its mystical structural patterns the austerities involved during its production.
Pavithra ring is considered to be the sacred ornament. It is worn on the ring finger of the right hand. It has become the tradition of the country since ages to make pavithra ring out of holy “Darba” grass. Especially the people who follow Hindu tradition follow this. This is worn while performing the religious rites. This tradition has got the greatest belief that the person who wears it with great devotion is benefitted with luck and grace. Wearing the holy ring is benefitted for both material well-being and spiritual elevation. Apart from religious rituals and Homa, it is also used during the meditation and offering prayers.
The exact meaning of Pavithra is pure and holy. According to the science of yoga there are three major subtle channels of Pranic energy that is connected with infinite channels in human body. Thus wearing of pavithra ring enhances the chances of Pranic energy to flow smoothly in immense through the channels that helps the functioning of the bodily mechanisms and stimulates good health. Pavithra ring helps in maintaining inner peace and reinforces the mind with greater concentration, peace of mind and courage. To obtain the original grace of the ring, one has to be self-disciplined. One who wears the ring is to be followed few rules like: strict vegetarian diet is to be followed, should avoid alcohol and immortal activities. Women are also refrained by themselves from wearing the ring during certain period of time. Pavithra ring worn after the morning bath and while performing meditative repetition of mantra (Japa) is very refreshing and elevating experience.
