Picture Perfect - Sangameshwar Mandir

My first introduction to Saswad was while accompanying the Varkaris during the Palakhi (a procession which carries Padukas/ footsteps of Sant Dynaneshwar in a palanquin) from Alandi to Pandharpur. It was during the month of Ashadh (June - July), 2007. Little did I know then about its historical importance.

One finds references to Saswad in the medieval history of India which takes us back to times of the Yadavas 12^th century. These rulers built many temples across the region - Sangameshwar is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the ‘Sangam’ (confluence) of the rivers Karhe and Chambli. It is an example par excellence of stone architecture; one would agree with this, looking at the pictures here.

The temple, built around 1725 has two distinct styles - Yadava and Maratha. The closed mandapas with sparsely carved animal motifs and open spaces are from the Yadava period. The fortified terrace on which the temple stands, the outer walls cut into the Buruj (watch tower), the Deepmala and the Ghumaj (dome) with minarets, amalak and niches with statuettes of saints are all Maratha in style. 

A brightly painted Nandi, the Vahan (carrier) of Shiva was the greatest attraction to my photographer friend. I wondered why? One look and the question was answered - two large cobras adorned Nandi’s neck (isn’t a cobra Lord Shiva’s neck ornament?)! 

A small figure with folded hands in front of Nandi has raised my curiosity, experts may please comment on the significance of it in Hindu sculpture/ iconography.

My personal favorite here is the original Mahirap Toran (sacred gateway) to the Devhara or Gabhara (where the deity presides in temple) carved in stone. One can dismiss the oil paint. There are later additions over time, but largely it follows the old Hindu temple tradition - The Gabhara is a small sanctum with narrow door; it usually has two pillars on the side with two Dvarpals (Guards) on either side. Also seen on either side of the entrance , is the face of a demon which wards off evil.

 

The setting sun made the picture perfect, the still water added more serenity to the temple…no wonder people go there in search of peace.

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Varkari - a religious movement, ‘Sampradaya’ and spiritual tradition in Hinduism.

The Yadavas - were a dynasty that ruled a large part of Maharashtra and Karnataka during the 12^thcentury.

Shiva – the Destroyer, an Indian Deity and one of the Trinity (Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu).