Special Correspondent
Pimpri Chinchwad: The grand temple dedicated to Sant Tukaram Maharaj at Shri Kshetra Bhandara Hill is steadily progressing towards completion, fulfilling a long-cherished dream of the Warkari sect. According to Balasaheb Kashid, President of the Bhandara Hill Trust, and Gajanan Shelar, the temple is being constructed to reflect the immense contributions of the revered saint, with 70% of the work already completed.
Architectural Excellence
The temple is being designed by acclaimed architects Chandrakant Sompura and Nikhil Sompura, renowned for their work on the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The construction is being overseen by Rameshchandra Sompura and Paresh Sompura, ensuring that the structure stands as a testament to Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s legacy.
Temple Design and Features
The temple will span 179 feet in length, 193 feet in width, and rise to a height of 87 feet, crowned by three grand domes. At its heart will be the idol of Lord Vithal-Rukmini, accompanied by a statue of Sant Tukaram Maharaj in a devotional pose. The outer pillars will be square, while the inner pillars will have an octagonal design, adorned with intricate carvings of 900 Vaishnavite figures.
Statues of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj
In addition to honoring Sant Tukaram Maharaj, the temple will also feature a magnificent statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the visionary ruler who laid the foundation of Hindavi Swarajya and pioneered democratic governance principles.
The temple’s construction represents a significant milestone in preserving and celebrating the spiritual and cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
