Shree Vitthal Rukmini temple - Pandharpur Solapur
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🛕 Temple Info
Nestled along the sacred banks of the Chandrabhaga River, Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir in Pandharpur stands as a symbol of unwavering devotion and deep spiritual legacy. Regarded as the main center of worship for Lord Vitthal (a revered form of Lord Vishnu/Krishna) and his divine consort Rukmini Devi (Rakhumai), this temple is not just a place of worship—it is the spiritual heartbeat of Maharashtra.
Built with grandeur, the temple showcases a five-tiered pyramidal gopuram, a serene sanctum housing the Swayambhu idol of Vitthal standing on a brick, and a tranquil ambience that resonates with centuries of bhakti. The adjacent Rukmini Mandir, legends say, portrays the goddess in penance, awaiting reunion with her Lord.
As per devotees, the name Vitthal carries divine symbolism — 'Vi' stands for Vidhatha (the Creator), 'Tta' represents Neelakantha Mahadev (the Transformer), and 'L' signifies Lakshmipati (the Sustainer). Thus, Vitthal embodies the essence of all three – Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu – in one sacred name.
Chant Vittal Vittal Vittal.....
💫 Importance
- The most sacred shrine of Varkari Sampradaya and the spiritual center of Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra.
- Daily darshans, abhishekas, and artis draw lakhs of devotees every year.
- The footprints of Lord Vitthal (Vishnupada) are enshrined in a temple in the river, believed to hold immense spiritual significance.
- Home to the annual Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi yatras, where lakhs of Warkaris journey on foot in devotional procession.
📜History
According to ancient lore and inscriptions dating back to 1195 CE, the temple was associated with Sant Pundalik, a devoted son whose penance and service to his parents pleased Lord Vishnu. When Lord Vishnu arrived to bless Pundalik, the saint offered a brick (Vit) to stand on, completing his service first. Impressed by his unwavering devotion, the Lord manifested as Vitthal, staying back to bless generations to come.
This legend embodies the Bhakti principle of ‘service as worship’, inspiring saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Namdev, Sant Eknath, and Sant Tukaram, whose abhangs and kirtans continue to echo within the temple walls.
The Rukmini temple, adjacent to the main shrine, was built later and depicts the goddess in solitary penance. The temple precincts also house the Vishnupada Mandir, where the divine footprints of Lord Krishna are enshrined on rock within a submerged stone pavilion in the river—adding sacred geographical depth to this holy town.
🪔 Pooja Timings
| S.No. Ritual / Darshan Timing Time | ||
| 1 | Temple Open Hours | 04:00 AM – 07:00 PM IST |
| 2 | Kakad Aarti (Morning Aarti) | Before sunrise |
| 3 | Abhishekam | Early morning |
| 4 | Dhoop Aarti (Evening Aarti) | Sunset |
| 5 | Shejarati (Night ritual) | Before closing |
During Ashadhi and Kartiki Vari, the temple remains open 24 hours to accommodate the vast influx of pilgrims.
🚌 Transfort Options
By Road
- Well-connected by MSRTC buses and private taxis from Mumbai (380 km), Pune (215 km), Solapur (70 km), and Kolhapur (170 km).
By Train
- Pandharpur Railway Station is connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Solapur.
- Solapur Junction, a major rail hub 75 km away, offers broader national connectivity.
By Air
- Pune International Airport (~210 km) is the nearest major airport.
- Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport to reach Pandharpur.
🏙️Near By Cities
Solapur
Jat
Kolhapur
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