Pandharpur Darshan: A Timeless Journey to Lord Vitthal’s Abode

 

Pandharpur Temple, officially known as Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir, is one of Maharashtra’s most revered pilgrimage sites, nestled on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River in Solapur district. It’s dedicated to Lord Vitthal (Vithoba)—a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna—and his consort Rukmini (Rakhumai).

Deities

The main deities worshipped at Pandharpur Temple are:

• Lord Vitthal (Vithoba): A form of Lord Krishna or Vishnu, depicted standing on a brick with hands on his waist. This posture is deeply symbolic, tied to the legend of the devotee Pundalik, who offered a brick for the Lord to stand on while he served his parents.
• Goddess Rukmini (Rakhumai): The consort of Vitthal, worshipped in a separate shrine within the temple complex. She represents devotion and steadfastness.

In addition to the main deities, the temple complex also houses smaller shrines for:

• Lord Ganesh
• Lord Hanuman
• Lord Dattatreya
• Garuda, the divine vehicle of Vishnu

Key Highlights:

• Historical Significance: The temple dates back to the 12th century, built by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. It’s one of the 108 Abhimana Kshetrams of the Vaishnavite tradition.
• Unique Rituals: Devotees are allowed to touch the feet of the main deity—an unusual privilege in major temples.
• Architecture: The temple features a blend of Hoysala and later Deccan styles, with six entrances and a silver-plated sanctum door called Rupyacha Darwaja.
• Spiritual Legend: The temple is closely associated with the story of Pundalik, a devoted son whose service to his parents moved Lord Krishna to appear before him.

History

The Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur traces its roots to the 12th century, with early patronage from the Yadava dynasty. Inscriptions suggest that King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire also contributed to its development between 1108–1152 CE. Over time, the temple saw alternating control between the Yadavas and Hoysalas, and was later restored during the Vijayanagara period after invasions damaged it.

Legends

The most cherished legend is that of Bhakta Pundalik, a devoted son. When Lord Krishna visited him, Pundalik was busy serving his parents and offered a brick for the Lord to stand on. Moved by his devotion, Krishna remained in that posture—hands on hips, standing on the brick—as Vitthal. This form became the central deity of the temple.

Another tale links Pundalik to King Muchukunda, who was granted a boon to incinerate anyone who disturbed his sleep. This legend weaves together themes of penance, transformation, and divine grace.

Architecture

The temple showcases a blend of Deccan and Hemadpanthi styles, with later additions reflecting Maharashtrian temple architecture. Key features include:

• Six entrances, with the Namdev Gate (Mahadwar) being the most prominent.
• A silver-plated sanctum door (Rupyacha Darwaja).
• The Solakhambi Mandap, a 16-pillared hall adorned with carvings of Krishna’s lilas and Vishnu’s avatars.
• The idol of Vitthal, carved from black stone, stands 3.5 feet tall with a Shivalinga on the head and Kaustubha Mani on the chest.

Rituals

Daily Rituals at Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir

• Kakad Aarti (4:00–5:30 AM): The day begins with this early morning aarti, accompanied by devotional songs and awakening the deity.
• Nitya Pooja: Includes abhishekam (ritual bathing), alankaram (decoration), and naivedyam (food offering).
• Mahanaivedya (10:45–11:00 AM): The main food offering to Lord Vitthal.
• Dhoop Aarti (6:45–7:00 PM): Evening worship with incense and lamps.
• Shej Aarti (12:00–1:00 AM): The final ritual of the day, symbolically putting the deity to rest.

Special Rituals & Traditions

• Paduka Sparsha Darshan: Devotees are allowed to touch the feet of the deity—rare in major temples.
• Ringan: A symbolic horse race held during the Wari pilgrimage, where a sacred horse runs in circles, believed to be guided by the spirit of the saint.
• Palkhi Seva: During the Wari, the padukas (sandals) of saints like Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar are carried in palanquins with devotional singing and dancing.

Festivals

Ashadhi Ekadashi (June–July)

The most significant festival, drawing millions of Warkaris who walk in processions (Dindis) from places like Dehu and Alandi. It marks the culmination of the Wari pilgrimage, with grand palkhi processions, bhajans, and darshan of Lord Vitthal.

Kartiki Ekadashi (October–November)

A second major pilgrimage similar to Ashadhi, but held in the month of Kartik. It commemorates the return journey of the Warkaris and is marked by devotional singing, fasting, and spiritual discourses.

Diwali & Navaratri

These pan-Indian festivals are celebrated with special poojas, illumination of Deepmalas, and cultural programs in the temple complex.

Maghi Ekadashi (January–February)

A quieter but spiritually intense observance, with ritual fasting, bhajans, and darshan.

Holi (Phalguna) (February–March)

Celebrated with colorful processions, devotional music, and community feasts, reflecting the joyous spirit of Krishna bhakti.

Scriptural References

• Chandogya Upanishad: A poetic verse describes a seeker arriving at the banks of the Bhimarathi (Chandrabhaga) River and beholding Vitthal, a two-armed form of Vishnu, bestowing both bhukti (worldly prosperity) and mukti (liberation).
• Padma Purana – Varaha Samhita: Contains a detailed section called Panduranga Mahatmya, a dialogue between Lord Shiva and Parvati, later passed on by Sage Narada. It narrates how Lord Vitthal came to reside in Pandharpur, the origin of the Chandrabhaga River, and the significance of the deity’s posture on a brick.
• Pandurangashtakam: A hymn attributed to Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, praising Lord Panduranga and suggesting that Vitthal worship was already prevalent during that time.
• Local Legends and Folk Traditions: The temple is also steeped in oral traditions and saint literature, especially the Abhangas of Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, which elevate Vitthal as the compassionate Lord of the masses. 

Getting Here

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Solapur Airport (approx. 75 km away)
• Alternative Options: Pune International Airport (210 km) and Aurangabad Airport (250 km)
• From these airports, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pandharpur.

By Train

• Pandharpur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Pune, Mumbai, Solapur, and Hyderabad.
• Trains like the Mumbai–Pandharpur Express and Solapur–Pandharpur Passenger run regularly.

By Road

• Pandharpur is accessible via state-run buses and private vehicles from cities like:
• Pune (210 km)
• Solapur (75 km)
• Kolhapur (180 km)
• Hyderabad (300 km)
• Roads are generally in good condition, and the town is well-signposted for pilgrims.

Local Tip

Once in Pandharpur, autos and cycle rickshaws are available for local transport. The temple is centrally located and walkable from most accommodations.

Accommodation Options

Whether you're looking for budget dharamshalas or comfortable hotels, Pandharpur has something for every pilgrim:

1. Shri Vitthal Rukmini Bhakta Niwas

• Location: Bhakti Marg, near Sangola Naka (750m from the temple)
• Rooms: AC/Non-AC, 2 to 8 beds
• Amenities: Hot water (5–8 AM), parking, CCTV, lift
• Starting Price: ₹1400

2. ISKCON Chandrabhaga Guest House

• Location: East bank of Chandrabhaga River
• Starting Price: ₹1000
• Ideal for: Peaceful, spiritual atmosphere

Travel & Stay Tips

• Book Early: Especially during Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi, rooms fill up months in advance.
• Carry ID Proof: Most lodges require Aadhar, Passport, or Driving License.
• Footwear: Bring comfortable sandals for long walks and temple queues.
• Cash & UPI: Keep both handy—some dharamshalas may not accept cards.
• Local Transport: Use autos or cycle rickshaws; the temple is walkable from most stays.
• Temple Dress Code: Modest attire is appreciated—avoid shorts or sleeveless tops.