Chhote Pandharpur: A Spiritual Sanctuary in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Amid the resonant beats of Tal-Mridunga and the chanting of Harinam, reminiscent of the spiritual fervor of Pandharpur, a hidden gem near Waluj in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district has emerged as a powerful center of devotion — the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple of Kunchegaon, affectionately known as ‘Chhote Pandharpur’.
Located along the Nagar-Aurangabad highway, this ancient temple holds deep spiritual and historical significance for devotees across the Panchkroshi region. Locals believe that the land itself was sanctified by the divine touch of Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini, making it a revered site of pilgrimage.
A Temple Rooted in Legend and Devotion
According to village lore passed down through generations, Vitthal and Rukmini, on their way to meet devotee Pundalik, were so mesmerized by the south-flowing Kham River and the serene surroundings—reminiscent of Chandrabhaga in Pandharpur—that they paused to rest here. It is believed that their divine footprints appeared on this land, giving birth to the legend of Chhote Pandharpur.
From Forest Shrine to a Devotional Landmark
Once nestled deep in dense forests and accessible only by thorny paths, the temple was first renovated in 1964 through the efforts of devout locals from Valdgaon, Waluj, and nearby villages. The idols of Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini inside the temple are strikingly similar to those in Pandharpur, invoking the same sense of spiritual reverence.
Further development came after the establishment of the MIDC industrial area, leading to a rise in both the region’s economic activity and the number of visiting devotees. A major renovation in 1985 gave the temple its current majestic form.
Preserving a Sacred Legacy
Despite the tide of modernization and industrial growth in Waluj, the temple continues to be a hub of unshaken faith. Devotion is preserved and nurtured under the stewardship of the Board of Trustees, including President Ratnakar Dagduji Shinde, Secretary Bhikaji Kashinath Khotkar, and a team of committed villagers.
Many elderly devotees fondly quote the saintly saying, “When there was no pasture, there was Pandharpur,” symbolizing the timeless spiritual bond with this sacred place.
Ashadhi and Kartiki Celebrations Mirror Pandharpur
On the auspicious days of Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi, Chhote Pandharpur transforms into a spiritual spectacle. Thousands of devotees gather here, filling the air with the echo of Harinam, the rhythm of cymbals and drums, and the vibrant energy of Warkari traditions. It feels as though a smaller, more intimate version of Pandharpur comes alive.
Far more than just a temple, Chhote Pandharpur stands today as a living confluence of devotion, tradition, and cultural heritage — a beacon of faith amidst the industrial skyline of Waluj, preserving the soul of the Warkari sect for future generations.