Natraj Mandir Satara : Where Art Meets Spirituality

 

On our visit to Satara, one spiritual spot that stood out was the Natraj Mandir, also known as Uttara Chidambaram Temple. Nestled along the NH-4 highway, this beautiful temple is a northern replica of the famous chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva his Natraj form - the cosmic dancer - the temple exudes peace, devotion, and architectural brilliance. Built in 1985, it has since become a major religious attraction in the region. The intricate carvings and layout are the masterpiece of renowned sculptor M.S. Ganapathi Sthapthi.

When we visited, the temple was open between 7.00 AM to 12.00 PM and 3.PM to 8.30 PM - although these hours extend during festivals. What made the experience even more enriching was the cultural ambiance - the temple frequently hosts classical dance programs, attracting artists from across India. The serene environment, rhythmic temple bells, and the graceful idol of Natraj left us spiritually uplifted.

This is truly beautifully and peaceful. I've been there - you should definitely visit too!

For More Explore

Iskon Temple

Lord Ram Mandir

From Satara to Gondavale - A Journey of Faith and calm

A Journey of Faith and calm  - Gondavale

I had a deep desire to visit Gondavale for a very long time. I truly wished, from the bottom of my heart, to visit Gondavale and receive the blessed darshan of Gondavalekar Maharaj with devotion. That's why I finally decided to make the trip.

I left early in the morning from satara, as I didn't want to be late. If I had delayed, I would've misses the opportunity for proper darshan. So I started my journey early. The roads weren't very crowded,, and there wasn't much traffic either.

Along the way, I saw lush green farms and small villages. Somewhere on the road, I noticed a small tea stall. I stopped there, sat down, and had a nice cup of tea. After that short break, I continued my journey and reached Gondavale in about 2 to 2.5 hours.

As soon as I entered the village, I felt something special - a beautiful spiritual vibe. The first I saw was the Samadhi of Gondavalekar Maharaj. I had the darshan, and the atmosphere there was filled with devotion and peace. Chanting of "Ram Nam" was going on, and everything felt deeply spiritual.

I sat there for a while, quietly listening to the chanting. The whole experience was soulful - something I hadn't felt in a long time. It truly touched me.

Later, I had the Prasad meal, which is freshly prepared and served to all the devotees. It was a simple and pure meal - rice, vegetables curry, chapati, and buttermilk - just like homemade food. It was very satisfying.

After the Prasad, I spent some more time exploring the temple premises. I also visited the temple library, and from there, I bought a book. My darshan experience was truly fulfilling, and even while returning home, I felt an inner peace and calm that stayed with me.

If you wish to explore more spiritual places, here are a few options listed below :

Yevteshwar Temple

Iskon Temple

Mahalaxmi & Jyotiba Mandir Kolhapur

Natraj Mandir

Sangam Mahuli

Sangam Mahuli : A Serene Riverside Retreat Near Satara

 A Peaceful Visit to Sangam Mahuli - Where Two Rivers Meet

Today I visited Sangam Mahuli, a place located about 4 kilometers from Satara. This village is situated at the confluence of the Krishna and Venna rivers, which divides the area into two parts: on one side is Sangam Mahuli ad on the other is Kshetra Mahuli.

The site holds historical significance as it is home to the samadhi (memorials)of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and Maharani Tararani, located on the banks of the river at Sangam Mahuli. During the monsoon season, when the water level of the river rises, these samadhis sometimes go underwater.

There are two temples here, one of which is the Vishweshwar Temple, located on the southern bank of the Venna River, right at the confluence of the Krushna and Venna rivers. The temple is constructed entirely of stone. The entrance to the temple, which faces the river, had wide stone steps.

Inside the temple's Sabhamandap (assembly hall), on the left side, there is an idol of Lord Ganapati, and on the right side, an idol Mahishasurmardini. There is also a large bell in the temple. On the northern and western sides of the temple, there are stone verandahs (ovras) which traditionally used by pilgrims for staying overnight and for cooking food.

The temples here are very old, and visiting this place brings a deep sense of peace and positivity.

More Spiritual Places :

1. Natraj Mandir
2. Yevteshwar Temple
3. Iskon Temple

The Exploring Shiva Idol in Satara - Exploring the Hidden Temple

 Shiva Idol -  Hidden Temple Satara

Today is the Last Monday of Shravan, and I visited a Mahadev Temple tat very few people know about - a truly hidden temple. I set out in the direction of the temple, and on the way, it started raining heavily. But since I had already decided to visit this temple today, the rain was not a problem for me. 

This temple is located a little ahead of Molacha Odha in Satara. After passing the ITI College, you will find this hidden temple. When I entered the temple, I felt an incredible sense of peace and positivity. The atmosphere was s divine that words can hardly describe it.

The moment I stepped inside, it felt as if I had been transported to Uttarakhand. The most special thing about this temple is that it houses the Largest idol of Lord Shiva in Satara. Since I visited early in the morning, there wasn't much crows, and I was blesses with a very peaceful darshan on this Shravan Monday.

If you ever happen to visit the Molacha Odha or Shahupuri area in Satara, I highly recommend visiting this hidden temple at least once.

More to Explore Temples :

1. Sangam Mauli 
2. Natraj Mandir