While you were enjoying the cool winds in your urban haven in one of the many highrises of Mumbai, a beautiful town in Maharashtra was braving the cyclone. Standing like a sentinel in the face of the storm was the Konkan coast. Cyclone Nisarga may have just trundled past Mumbai, but it has recked havoc in Maharashtra’s little piece of heaven-Dapoli and since the storm’s footfall, it has been mired in darkness.

A little over 200 km from the hustle-bustle of Mumbai lies the picturesque township of Dapoli in Ratnagiri. Lovingly referred to as the mini Mahabaleswar, Dapoli is known for its pristine beaches and spectacular natural beauty. It is also home to some of the most revered Konkani temples.

Famed as Parashuram Bhumi, Dapoli is home to one of the two temples dedicated to the famous kshatriya warrior brahman. The 300 years old Yaqub Baba Dargah also occupies the pride of place in coastal township. The dargah is in close proximity to the Mahalaxmi Temple.
Yes-there exists an ancient township in the nook of Ratnagiri that upholds the true spirit of a secular India and today, it is in trouble. After Cyclone Nisarga’s rampage, Dapoli has been swept in darkness.

Today Dapoli, the abode Kadyavarcha Ganapati is plunged in darkness. Cyclone Nisarga has blown away the lamp in the holy township. The unusual 'ujwya sondecha Ganpati' is believed to be a living deity by the locals. They believe that Lord Ganesha fulfils all their deepest desires and wishes. Spare a thought and urge the government to light up the holy township of Dapoli today.