Vitthal Rukhmini Temple

Vitthal Rukhmini Temple Latest News

A Marathi-Hindi language row has emerged at Pandharpur’s renowned Vitthal-Rukhmini temple recently.

About Vitthal Rukhmini Temple

• It is a Hindu temple situated in Pandharpur, Maharashtra.
• Located on the banks of the river Bhima, also known as Chandrabhaga, Sri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir is dedicated to Lord Vithoba, a form of the Lord Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rukhmini. 
• The temple is classified as one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate tradition. 

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Vitthal Rukhmini Temple History

• The temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire between 1108 and 1152 CE.
• He built the temple after being persuaded by Pundalik, a historical figure, great devotee of Lord Krishna.
• There is an inscription in the temple, of a Hoysala King Vira Someshwara dating back to 1237 CE, which grants the temple a village for its upkeep. 
• An extensive temple was constructed in the second half of the 13th century following the Hemadpanti style of architecture. 
• The temple was attacked by invaders and completely damaged.
• The present temple was built in the 17th century & later in the Deccan style, with dome motifs and lobed arches by the contribution of Peshwas of Pune, the Shindes of Gwalior, and the Holkars of Indore.
• The temple was the first shrine in India that welcomed people and women from backward categories as priests in 2014.

Source: TOI