I often look for places that speak to the soul — not just the eyes. Chitrakoot is one of those places. Tucked away on the border between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, it is more than simply a place to visit; it is a story, a painting, a feeling that tells itself through the rivers, trees, and ancient stones.
Where Stories Breathe
Chitrakoot is not just any town. It is where Sita, Lakshman, and Lord Rama lived throughout their more than 11-year exile. The Ramayana is whispered in each and every corner here. Because I paint emotions, I was able to sense every tree and rock, bringing back memories of faith, love, suffering, and strength.
I remember walking up to Kamadgiri Hill, barefoot like thousands of pilgrims. It was surrounded by a silence that was louder than any temple bells I've ever heard. People walked slowly, praying softly, lost in their own conversations with God. I couldn’t help but sketch the simple yet powerful expressions on their faces.
The Beauty of Simplicity
I was really moved by Chitrakoot's pure beauty. The sacred waters of the Mandakini River were dipped in by pilgrims as it flowed slowly. One evening, I watched the sunset paint the sky in pinks and oranges while holding a brush. It felt like nature was adding its own color to my canvas.
Then there was Ram Ghat, calm but colorful. Saints chanted bhajans, kids played by the stairs, and old people sat in silence with stories in their eyes. I quickly created them; they were heartfelt but not perfect.
Places that Spoke to Me
In some places, I had to pause and take a deep breath.
- Bharat Milap Mandir: Bharat met Lord Rama there and requested that he go back to Ayodhya. The emotion here was strong, even in the air.
- Gupt Godavari Caves: Water flowing inside stone caves, as if time itself stood still here.
- Sati Anusuya Ashram: Surrounded by trees and peace, this place seemed like a painting in motion.
More Than Just a Visit
Chitrakoot isn’t about luxury or sightseeing. It’s about slowing down. I'm experiencing a feeling. Connecting. It's quiet, the colors are in its dust, and the stories of its people inspired me as an artist.
I didn’t just return with sketches — I returned with peace.
If You Ever Go to Chitrakoot...
Don’t just take pictures. Take a seat close to the river. Walk up the hill. Listen to the silence. Allow the place to speak to you. It may not be loud, but it gets straight to the heart of things.
