Chitrakoot News: Mandakini Floodwaters Enter Tulsidas Cave, Ancient Temples Remain Submerged

The flood situation in Chitrakoot continues to raise concern as the Mandakini River remains swollen and continues to affect areas around the historic Ramghat. Although floodwater has receded from parts of Chitrakoot city, several temples, ashrams and maths along the riverbank remain submerged. Water has also reportedly entered the ancient cave associated with Goswami Tulsidas, adding to concerns over the damage caused to the area’s cultural and religious heritage. A ground report from Ramghat shows the extent of the flooding, with muddy stretches, damaged walls, scattered debris and a strong river current visible around the affected areas. The historic significance of Ramghat makes the situation particularly notable. According to the local religious tradition referenced in the report, Tulsidas is associated with this ghat, where he is believed to have lived, prepared sandalwood paste and had a revered encounter with Lord Ram. A statue associated with Tulsidas at the site has reportedly been damaged in the flooding, while the canopy structure above it has also broken. Several old temples, monasteries and ashrams connected with the spiritual history of Chitrakoot are still within the river’s flood-affected zone. Devotees continue to arrive in the town, but access to some temples remains restricted because of the waterlogging and unsafe conditions around the ghats. Boats can be seen in large numbers along the swollen river as authorities and locals continue to watch the water level. The receding water in the city has brought some relief, but the condition around Ramghat highlights the continuing impact of the Mandakini flood, with debris and mud marking the force of the overflowing river.