Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Samadhi Mandir, Alandi — Attraction in Maharashtra

During the time of the Yadava monarch Ramadevarava, Dnyaneshwar was born in 1275 (on the auspicious day of Krishna Janmashtami) into a Marathi-speaking Deshastha Brahman family in Apegaon hamlet on the banks of the Godavari river close to Paithan in Maharashtra. The kingdom with Devagiri as its capital was relatively peaceful and stable, and the king was a supporter of the arts and literature. The writings of Sant Dnyaneshwar’s students Satyamalanath and Sachchidanand contain biographical information about his life. There are divergent stories of Dnyaneshwar’s life in various traditions. However, there is no questioning the fact that his work Dnyaneshwari was created in 1290 CE. The more widely recognised version of Dnyaneshwar’s life story is that he was born in 1275 CE and attained samadhi in 1296 CE. He was born in 1271 CE, according to other sources.

Life of Dnyaneshwar

The veracity of the biographical information on Dnyaneshwar’s brief life of approximately 21 years is disputed. His hagiographic legends and miracles, like his capacity to make a buffalo recite the Vedas and degrade a yogi by riding a moving wall, are abundant in the accounts that are readily available. The accounts that have been survived, state that Dnyaneshwar’s father Vitthalapant was a Kulkarni (hereditary accountant, typically Brahmin, who kept land and tax records in villages) in the Maharashtrian village of Apegaon on the banks of the Godavari River. This occupation was one he had inherited from his forefathers. The Kulkarni of Alandi’s daughter, Rakhumabai, was his wife.

Vitthalapant yearned for spiritual education even as a householder. Because of the passing of his father and the fact that he was married but had no children, he became increasingly disenchanted with life. He eventually decided to give up his worldly life and relocate to Kashi to become a sannyasin (renunciate) with the approval of his wife. Another account of these events claims that Dnyaneshwar’s father Vitthalapant was a very pious man who hailed from a long line of Nath yogi teachers and made a journey to Varanasi.

He found a guru (spiritual instructor) there and made the decision to renounce without consulting his wife. His spiritual guide Rama Sharma, also known as Ramananda, Nrisimhashrama, Ramadvaya, and Shripad in different accounts, initiated Vitthalapant as a sannyasin. Rama Sharma ordered Vitthalapant to return to his wife and carry out his responsibilities as a householder after learning that Vitthalapant had abandoned his family to become a monk. Rakhumabai conceived four children: Nivruttinath (1273 CE), Dnyaneshwar (1275 CE), Sopan (1277 CE), and Muktabai (1279 CE) now since Vitthalapant returned to his wife and resided in Alandi.

A renunciate reverting to his life as a householder was seen as heresy by traditional Brahmins. In order to gain complete admittance to the Brahmin caste, Dnyaneshwar and his brothers were not permitted to participate in the holy thread rite. This entailed ex-communication from the Brahmin caste. Eventually, Vitthalapant and his family departed the town for Nashik. One day, Vitthalapant encountered a tiger while going about his usual routine. Three of Vitthalapant’s four children also managed to flee, but Nivruttinath was left behind and took refuge in a cave. Gahaninath, whom he encountered while hiding in the cave, introduced Nivruttinath to the knowledge of the Nath yogis.

Later, Vitthalapant went back to Alandi and begged the Brahmins for advice on how to atone for his transgressions; they urged that he take his own life as a form of penance. Within a year of one another, Vitthalapant and his wife committed suicide by plunging into the Indrayani River in the vain hope that their children may live lives free from oppression. According to local lore and other accounts, the parents jumped into the Indrayani River to commit suicide. Another version of the story claims that the father, Vitthalapant, atoned for his transgression by jumping into the Ganges River. The Nath Hindu live tradition, to which their...

5/5 Stars - A Spiritual Oasis: Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir, Alandi

Tucked away in the quaint town of Alandi, Maharashtra, lies the revered Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir, a sacred sanctuary that embodies the essence of spirituality, serenity, and divine connection. This magnificent temple complex is dedicated to the 13th-century Marathi saint and poet, Sant Dnyaneshwar, whose legacy continues to inspire and guide millions.

A Calm and Cool Ambiance

As we stepped into the temple premises, we were enveloped by an aura of tranquility. The lush green surroundings, soothing water features, and majestic architecture create a sense of harmony, calming the mind and soothing the soul. The temple's serene atmosphere is a perfect antidote to the chaos of modern life.

Holy Energy

The Samadhi Mandir is believed to be the site where Sant Dnyaneshwar attained samadhi (enlightenment). The sacred energy emanating from this holy spot is palpable, filling visitors with a deep sense of reverence and devotion. We felt blessed to be in the presence of such spiritual significance.

Architectural Marvel

The temple's architecture is a blend of ancient and modern styles, showcasing intricate carvings, beautiful sculptures, and stunning murals depicting Sant Dnyaneshwar's life and teachings. The majestic shrine, adorned with vibrant flowers and ornate decorations, is a testament to the devotion of the temple's caretakers.

Spiritual Significance

Sant Dnyaneshwar's teachings, as encapsulated in his iconic work, the Dnyaneshwari, emphasize the importance of self-realization, love, and devotion. The temple serves as a beacon for spiritual seekers, offering guidance and inspiration through various programs, discourses, and cultural events.

Excellent Amenities

The temple complex offers:

Clean and well-maintained premises Ample parking and accessibility Refreshment stalls serving prasad and local delicacies Accommodation options for pilgrims Library and bookstall featuring spiritual literature

Rating Breakdown:

Spirituality: 5/5 Ambiance: 5/5 Architecture: 5/5 Amenities: 5/5 Overall Experience: 5/5

Conclusion

Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir, Alandi, is an extraordinary destination that nourishes both body and soul. This sacred site is a must-visit for:

Spiritual seekers History enthusiasts Architecture lovers Those seeking solace and peace

We left the temple feeling blessed, rejuvenated, and inspired by Sant Dnyaneshwar's timeless teachings. As we reflect on our experience, we are reminded of the saint's profound words: "The ultimate goal of human life is to realize one's true Self."

Tips:

Visit during sunrise or sunset for a mesmerizing experience. Attend discourses or cultural events to deepen your understanding of Sant Dnyaneshwar's teachings. Explore the nearby Indrayani River and scenic surroundings. Respect the temple's sanctity and traditions.

In the words of Sant Dnyaneshwar, "The Lord is within us, and we are within the Lord." Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir, Alandi, is a poignant reminder of this...

Pune city is famous for its cultural and historical heritage. Pune is also known as Punyanagari. Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Samadhi mandir is one of the main Pilgrim center which visited by lakhs of devotees every year. This temple is located on the banks of the Indrayani river in Alandi town of Pune. Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj spent most of his life. Its a calm and peaceful temple where you can get the darshan of silver embodied Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj was a 13th Century Marathi philosopher. He is known for writing Dnyaneshwari which is a translation and commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. Some people refer him as an Avatar of Lord Vishnu. He went into samadhi, leaving his mortal body while being in a meditative state. Temple Architecture: Sant Dnyaneshwar age was 21 years when he went into samadhi. Later today's seen temple was constructed in 1570. Samadhi place is said to be built where Dnyaneshwar Maharaj took samadhi in an underground chamber. Alandi temple is designed in the Hemadpanti architecture style witch having two floors. The main temple has a stone mausoleum of Saint Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. The Samadhi is covered with a silver roof. Devotees who visit it, offers flowers and fruits. Lakhs of devotees visits this place every year to have darshan of Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, so the accommodation of the devotees also arranged by the temple, which is known as Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Bhaktnivas. Bhaktnivas provides clean rooms with basic facilities like fan, beds and bathrooms to make devotees stay better and comfortable. There are total 105 rooms in four Bhaktnivas complex.

About Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj: Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj was born into a poor family to Vitthal Pant Kulkarni and Rukmini Bhai Kulkarni. He had two brothers and one sister. He was born in a village called Apegaon which situated on the banks of the river Godavari near Paithan town in Chhatrapati Shambaji Nagar district. Since his child hood he was passionate about spirituality and philosophy. He wrote a book known as Dnyaneshwari in order to make his thoughts reach every common person by translating Sanskrit Bhagat Gita into the Marathi language.

Sant Dnyaneshwar Palki is one of the most popular yatra celebrates here every year in the month of Ashadam. Palki starts at Alandi on Ashad Shuddha Padyami and reach to Pandharpur on Ashad Ekadashi. Entire Palkhi yatra for whole 15 days happens in very devotional way and people walks along with this Palkhi from Alandi to Pandharpur which is 215 km distance. The palanquin carries the feet of Saint Dnyaneshwar. Devotees joins this Yatra in large numbers and complete the journey from Alandi to Pandharpur on bare foot. During this Yatra Pandharpur city covers with crowd of lakhs of people.

Shree Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Samadhi mandir opens with Kakad Aarti and closed with Shej Aarti.

Visiting timings: Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj mandir open to tourists and devotees throughout the year from Morning 06:00...