Pawas, a quiet village in Ratnagiri, earned its place on the spiritual map through the life of Swami Swaroopanand (1903–1974). Born as Ramchandra Godbole, he was drawn early toward devotion and philosophy. After meeting his guru, Babamaharaj Vaidya of Pune, he renounced worldly life and settled permanently in Pawas.
Here he lived simply, chanting the mantra “Ram Krishna Hari”, and guiding seekers with the wisdom of Bhagavad Gita, Dnyaneshwari, and Dasbodh. His teachings were never wrapped in ritual; instead, they were steeped in bhakti, humility, and love for all beings. Over time, Pawas became a magnet for devotees searching for peace.
Swami Swaroopanand’s residence, Anant Niwas, is now preserved for visitors. The village also houses his Samadhi Mandir, built after he entered eternal rest on 15 August 1974. A unique idol of Lord Ganesha, naturally formed in the trunk of an Amla tree, adds to Pawas’ sacred aura.
Local lore says Swamiji often meditated beneath trees or near the riverbanks, and devotees sometimes found him in deep silence, radiating calm. Many still recount dreams of his presence, followed by sudden relief from personal troubles — stories that keep Pawas alive as a center of faith.
Surrounded by temples of Ganesh, Vishveshwar, and Someshwar, Pawas offers not grandeur but tranquility. It is less about spectacle and more about the stillness that seeps into visitors’ hearts. Even today, the village echoes with the soft chant “Ram Krishna Hari,” as if Swamiji himself is gently reminding every soul who visits — peace is simple, and devotion is enough.
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