Alandi
Pune, India
- Attend the evening Aarti.
- Explore the local markets.
- Take a dip in the Indrayani River.
- Visit Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir.
- Witness the Palkhi procession (if visiting during Ashadhi Ekadashi).
Known for:
Description:
Alandi is a revered pilgrimage town located near Pune, Maharashtra, India. It is the final resting place (Samadhi) of the highly venerated Marathi Bhakti saint, Dnyaneshwar (also known as Jnaneshwar). The town is situated on the banks of the Indrayani River and attracts devotees from all over Maharashtra and beyond, particularly during the annual Dnyaneshwar Mauli Palkhi procession. Alandi offers a serene and spiritually enriching experience. The main attraction is the Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir, a beautiful temple complex where Saint Dnyaneshwar attained Samadhi. Visitors can also explore other temples and ghats along the river, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious traditions of the region. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and the chanting of hymns, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
History:
Alandi's history is inextricably linked to the life and legacy of Saint Dnyaneshwar, a 13th-century Marathi saint, poet, philosopher, and yogi. He is renowned for writing 'Dnyaneshwari,' a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita in Marathi, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to the common people. Dnyaneshwar attained Samadhi (a state of complete spiritual absorption) in Alandi at the young age of 21. The Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir was built to commemorate this event, transforming Alandi into a significant pilgrimage site. Over the centuries, the town has grown around the temple, attracting devotees and becoming a center for the preservation and propagation of Dnyaneshwar's teachings. The annual 'Palkhi' procession, where Dnyaneshwar's Padukas (footprints) are carried to Pandharpur, further solidifies Alandi's importance in the spiritual landscape of Maharashtra.