Pandharpur, often called "Dakshin Kashi" (Southern Kashi), is a sacred pilgrimage town in Maharashtra's Solapur district. Located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River (also known as the Bhima River), it holds great religious importance for devotees of Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Krishna.
Key Highlights of Pandharpur:
Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir: Located centrally in Pandharpur, this historic temple is dedicated to Lord Vithoba and Rukmini. Established in the 12th century, with contributions from Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana (1108–1152 CE), it is a vital hub for the Bhakti movement and has hosted saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Tukaram, and Sant Namdev. In 2014, the temple made headlines by allowing women and people from all castes to serve as priests, promoting inclusivity.
Pandharpur Wari: An age-old annual pilgrimage where thousands of devotees, called Warkaris, walk on foot to the town, carrying palanquins of saints like Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram. The journey peaks during Ashadhi Ekadashi (June–July) and Kartiki Ekadashi (October–November), symbolizing devotion and community unity.
Chandrabhaga River: Flowing gracefully through Pandharpur, this sacred river is believed to purify sins through ritual dips, which are an essential part of the pilgrimage.
Accessibility:
- By Road: Well-connected via regular bus services from Solapur (76 km away), Pune (210 km), and Mumbai (360 km).
- By Rail: The Pandharpur railway station on the Miraj–Latur line connects to various parts of Maharashtra and neighboring states.
- By Air: The closest airports are in Pune (210 km) and Kolhapur (180 km), offering domestic and limited international flights.
Cultural Significance: Pandharpur is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, characterized by devotional singing (abhangas), dance, and communal prayers, especially during the Wari festival. The town’s spiritual ethos is deeply rooted in tales of devotion, music, and community gatherings.