TravelTrails
Heard of Alandi in Pune district?
Located 25 km from the city along the Indrayani River, it’s a prime pilgrimage destination
Alandi, a small town in Maharashtra’s Pune district, holds significant religious and cultural importance due to its association with Saint Dnyaneshwar, a revered poet and philosopher. Located 25 km from Pune along the Indrayani River, it’s a prime pilgrimage destination. The main attraction is the Alandi Gaon Temple, where Saint Dnyaneshwar’s samadhi is located. Devotees visit the temple for blessings and to witness the legacy of this 13th-century saint who authored the Dnyaneshwari, a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita.
The Alandi Gaon Temple is renowned for its spiritual significance. Saint Dnyaneshwar, who was born in 1275 CE, lived a life devoted to spirituality, poetry, and social reform. He wrote the Dnyaneshwari at the young age of 16 and attained samadhi at the age of 21. His final resting place in the temple is adorned with a silver canopy and a continuously burning lamp, and it’s surrounded by beautiful portraits of other saints from Maharashtra, including Tukaram and Namdev.
In addition to the temple, Alandi is known for vibrant festivals like the Palkhi procession and Kartik Ekadashi Fair, which draw devotees from across the country. The Palkhi procession is a 21-day pilgrimage where a silver palanquin, symbolic of Saint Dnyaneshwar, is carried from Alandi to Pandharpur, celebrating devotion to Lord Vitthal. This event is marked by music, prayer, and widespread community participation. The Kartik Ekadashi Fair, held in November-December, brings together pilgrims who take a dip in the Indrayani River and visit the saint’s samadhi.
Visitors to Alandi can also explore other sites, such as the Ram Mandir and Muktabai Temple, which hold deep historical and spiritual significance. Additionally, the Siddhabet Ghat by the river is where Dnyaneshwar wrote his Dnyaneshwari, adding to the rich spiritual heritage of the area.
Alandi’s blend of spirituality, history, and culture makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat or a deeper understanding of Maharashtra’s spiritual legacy.
