Gokhale’s Shri Ram Mandir – A Legacy of Faith Since 1913
Vile Parle may today be known for its fast-paced life, growing skyline, and bustling markets—but beneath this modern identity lies the soul of a quaint, close-knit village. For those who have seen the old Parle, memories still linger of tree-lined lanes, modest homes, and a life that moved at a gentler pace.
And perhaps what defines Parle even today is its deep-rooted spirituality.
Walk through the lanes of Parle East, and you will notice something beautiful—almost every corner has a temple. From the quiet Sai Baba temple on Tilak Mandir Road to the ever-revered Parleshwar temple, from small Hanuman shrines in old wadis to lesser-known temples tucked into bylanes—these sacred spaces are not just places of worship, but anchors of community life.
It is this very spirit that inspires our new series, Temples of Parle —a journey to rediscover the stories, history, and emotions behind these temples that have silently shaped generations.
This Month’s Feature: Shri Ram Mandir (Gokhale’s Ram Mandir)
Ram Mandir Road & Shraddhanand Road Junction, opposite Vijay Stores
There is something quietly powerful about Shri Ram Mandir. It does not demand attention—it earns reverence.
Established in **1913** by Late Vishnu Vishwanath “Kaka” Gokhale, the temple was born out of a simple yet profound desire—to have Lord Ram’s presence close to home. Built on his own land, this temple soon became much more than a personal place of worship; it became a spiritual nucleus for the growing Parle community.
A Witness to History
Shri Ram Mandir holds a unique place in Parle’s cultural history.
In 1920, the year Lokmanya Tilak passed away, Parle witnessed its first public Ganeshotsav—and it was celebrated right here, within this temple. In the following years, the tradition continued under the Parle Sarvajanik Mandal before eventually moving to Lokmanya Seva Sangh.
In many ways, the seeds of Parle’s vibrant public celebrations and cultural life were sown in this very परिसर.
Where Devotion Comes Alive
Step inside, and the temple instantly creates a sense of calm. The idols of **Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman** are serene and graceful, drawing devotees into quiet reflection.
For decades, Ram Navami has been celebrated here with deep devotion and joyous energy. The moment of Ram Janma is marked with spiritual fervour, devotional singing, and collective prayer.
There was a time when the temple would echo with the soulful kirtans of H.B.P. Govind Buwa Dev, bringing stories of Ramayan alive for devotees. Esteemed personalities like Dr. C. K. Gokhale would attend the celebrations with devotion, and the festivities would culminate in a heartfelt Mahaprasad shared by all.
A Legacy Carried Forward
Like every living institution, the temple has evolved while preserving its essence.
In the mid-1960s, under trustee **Baburao Paranjape**, the temple underwent renovation—strengthening its structure while retaining its simplicity. Over the years, it has remained a hub of spiritual activities—kirtans, pravachans, and bhajans continuing to nurture the cultural fabric of Parle.
For nearly four decades, Kashinath Pant (Kaka Khare Guruji) served as the temple’s priest, followed by his nephew Shankar Khare, continuing the tradition of dedicated service.
Today, Shri Ram Mandir stands united with Shri Datta Mandir and Shri Parleshwar Mandir under a common trust—ensuring its legacy continues with the same devotion and care.
More Than a Temple… A Feeling
As we celebrate Ram Navami in March 2026, Shri Ram Mandir is not just a place we visit—it is a place we belong to.
It reminds us of a Parle that was simpler, closer, and deeply connected. A Parle where festivals were not events, but shared emotions. Where temples were not just structures, but the heart of the community.
In a city that never stops changing, Shri Ram Mandir quietly stands still—holding stories, memories, and faith across generations.
Source: Vile Parle Amrut Smruti Granth
