Satara in Maharashtra is not only well known for its scenic places but also for its cultural and historic significance. Satara was one of the capitals of the great Maratha Empire and Sangam Mahuli in Satara is one such place which portrays the rich historical background of Satara. It has an ancient Shiva temple situated on the sangam (confluence) of Krishna and Venna river. It is also known as Dakshin kashi of Maharashtra. All these things make Sangam Mahuli – a must visit in Satara.
About Sangam Mahuli – A must-visit in Satara
We were in Satara to attend a wedding that’s when we got a chance to visit Sangam Mahuli. Sangam Mahuli is located a few kilometers from Satara, off the SH 58 and NH 48. It is approximately 5km from Satara bus station. There are many temples in Mahuli. Out of which three temples namely, Vishweshwar, Rameshwar and Sangameshwar temples are well known. On the east side of the Krishna River is the Kashi Vishweshwar Temple. This side is called “Sangam Mahuli” whereas on the west side of the river is the Rameshwar temple. This side is called “Kshtra Mahuli”.
We were surprised to see such a beautiful temple located at a peaceful and quiet corner of the river. The kashi Vishweshwar temple has one of the finest architecture of the Maratha era. The temple has an entrance from the river side and hence it has huge stone steps to enter the temple. At the entrance on the left side is a huge deepmala about 55-60 feet tall carved out of a single stone with provision to put oil lamps. The deepmala is lit with oil lamps during important festivals like shivratri, ekadashi etc.
Like most of the shiva temples, at the entrance there is a nandi facing lord Shiva. However, the nandi here immediately catches devotee’s attention as it is huge and is residing in a nadi mandap with octagonal peak. To enter the temple one has to climb another 5 to 6 steps. The temple has a garbhagriha (sanctum santorum), antaral (hall) and sabhamandap (Assembly).
While entering the garbhagriha a huge bell caught our attention. One of the local told us that after defeating Portuguese in Vasai, Peshwa Chimajiappa had brought the bell. Inside the garbhagriha resides a beautiful Shivling. The sight of the Shivling itself brought calmness and peace.
History of Sangam Mahuli
As per the Satara Gazetteer, the temple was built in 1735 by Shri Patrao Pant. One of the locals told us that once Chhatrapati Shahu maharaj was on a visit to Mahuli for some religious work. But he could not find any bhraman for performing the religious activity. So Shri. Patrao Pant who was accompanying Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj performed the rituals for him and in return Shahu Maharaj gave him a huge piece of land. Shri. Patrao Pant laid the foundation of Mahuli on that land.
One of the locals also told us that it is believed that the history of Mahuli dates back to Ramayana. He pointed to a huge tree near the Rameshwar temple. It is believed that lord Rama had halted under the tree during his vanvas. Another significance of Mahuli is that it’s the birthplace of Ramshastri Prabhune who served the Maratha state for 30 years as Chief Justice with upright conduct and wisdom.
Samdhis at Sangam Mahuli.
We could witness the Samdhi of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (son of Sambhaji Maharaj and grandson of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) at the bank of Krishna river at Mahuli. There were two shivlings at the Samadhi.It is said that original there was just one shivling at the samdhi but during a flood to Krishna river the shivlinga went missing. So another shivlinga was kept at the Samadhi. But after some time the original shivling was found in the nearby area. Hence it was also placed at the samdhi. So today there are two shivlga at the samdhi.
The samdhi of Chhatrapati Maharani Tarabai (diaghter-in-law of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) is also believed to be at Mahuli. However we could not find it. Another interesting samdhi found at Mahuli is of a dog called Khadya. Khadya was a loyal dog of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. He saved the life of Shahu Maharaj during hunting from a tiger.
Also Read: Kaas Pathar -Another must visit in Satara
Our Experience:
Our unplanned visit to Sangam Mahuli turned out to be the best one. We were stunned at the beauty of the temple and its surroundings. The temple itself is an architecture marvel. We found many wedding photographers in the temple premises. A few pooja were also performed in the temple premises.
Insider Tips:
1. Best time to visit: The best time to visit is summer and winter season as there are many chances of the Krishna and Venna River getting flooded in monsoon.
2. How to reach: Sangam Mahuli is located a few kilometers from Satara, off the SH 58 and NH 48. It is approximately 5 km from Satara bus station. From Satara bus station one can easily get an auto or taxi to reach the temple.
3. Fees: There is no entry fee for the temple.
4. Time require: 1 – 2 hours.
In Nut shell:
Sangam Mahuli is must visit place in Satara. The place is the best example of the marvelous architecture of the great Maratha era. It portrays the rich Maratha history. Located on the sangam of Krishna and Venna rivers. The temple and place gives calmness and brings peace.
Don’t forget to read about Thoseghar waterfall. Another mesmerizing tourist destination near Satara.
