Few people would know, and even fewer would believe that right in the middle of Pune city, on one side of its busiest roads, exists an 8th-century rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built during the reign of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. On the occasion of World Heritage Day, April 18, The Chronicle, visited this protected monument – the Pataleshwar temple on the Jangli Maharaj road. The temple is located inside a cave and the entrance to the cave is marked by a huge Nandi bull statue. Inside the temple visitors can see various carvings and sculptures, including the famous Shiva Linga, which is considered to be one of the most ancient Shiva Lingas in India. “This temple is not just a tourist destination, but it is also an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that praying at this temple can bring peace, prosperity, and good health,” claimed Pandit Sharma, one of temple priests. “I have visited the Pataleshwar Temple several times, and every time I am amazed at its beauty and intricate carvings. It is a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient history and architecture,” says Rajesh, a tourist from Mumbai.“I have been coming to this temple since I was a child, and it holds a special place in my heart. The atmosphere inside the temple is serene and peaceful, and it is the perfect place to meditate and connect with the divine,” said Shalini, a local resident of Pune. Situated barely a 100 metres away from the bustling traffic on the Jangli Maharaj road, the Pataleshwar temple premises is shaded by large trees and is surprisingly quiet. “As a temple priest, it is my duty to ensure that the temple is well-maintained and that visitors have a pleasant experience. We take great pride in the temple’s ancient architecture and history, and we strive to educate visitors about its significance,” said Pandit Deshpande, another temple priest. “The Maharashtra government has taken several steps to preserve and protect the temple, including setting up a museum on the temple’s premises to educate visitors about its history and significance,” Pandit Sharma informed. The entire temple was carved out of a single rock, and the carvings and sculptures inside the sanctum are also made from the same rock. The Rashtrakutas were known for their patronage of the arts and their support for various religions, including Buddhism and Jainism. The Pataleshwar temple is an excellent example of the architectural and artistic skills of the Rashtrakuta era.
10 Mar 2023
Atharv Unhale
