Prasanna Shree Kedareshwar Mandir egaon Dabhade, Pune

The Kedareshwar Temple in Talegaon Dabhade is known as the ‘Prati-Kedareshwar’ (a representation of Kedarnath) of Pune district. It is a beautiful and serene religious site. The premises, featuring a small garden and lush greenery, are exceptionally neat and clean, bringing peace to the mind.

Talegaon-Dabhade is a historic town in the Maval taluka of Pune district. It was founded by Khanderao Dabhade, a prominent figure from the Dabhade family, which rose to prominence during the Peshwa era. The Dabhades were a renowned Maratha clan in the 18th century. During the Maratha rule, the men of this family earned prestigious positions through their merit. The patriarch of this family, Bajaji, was the Patil of Talegaon near Pune. His son, Yesaji, served as a loyal attendant to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. After Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji Maharaj appointed him to Raigad. Later, following the assassination of Sambhaji Maharaj, Bajaji accompanied Rajaram Maharaj to Jinji. His two sons, Khandoji and Shivaji, were with him at the time. Khandoji earned the title of Senapati (Commander-in-Chief) through his valor. History records that, impressed by his performance at Jinji, Rajaram Maharaj granted the village of Dabhade to Khanderao as an Inam (gift).

The Kedareshwar temple premises are privately owned and the entire area is fenced. Devotees and tourists visiting the temple must enter through the main gate of the Indrayani Heritage Society. Some ancient ruins are still visible outside the fence, though they are in a dilapidated state. Upon entering through the main gate, one sees the expansive temple complex. Walking along the paved path through the beautiful garden, one arrives directly in front of the Kedareshwar temple, which bears the hallmarks of antiquity.

Before entering the temple, one is first greeted by the sight of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The sculpture depicts Tukobaray imparting wisdom to Shivaji Maharaj. Directly in front of the main temple, there is a carved Nandi statue on a pedestal. The stone frame of the temple entrance features exquisite craftsmanship, with an image of Lord Ganesha carved at the top. Upon entering, one finds the Sabhamandap (assembly hall), and in the niches of all four walls, there are idols of various deities, including Ganesha. Inside the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is the Kedareshwar Linga. In the niches on the wall behind the Linga, one can see idols of Ganesha and Goddess Parvati.

To the right of the Kedareshwar temple lies the famous ‘Ghumat Vihir’ (Dome Well). This historic well is constructed from beautiful, finely carved black stone. There are steps to descend, allowing one to reach the water level directly. There are two arches within this well. An inscription on one of them mentions four generations of the Dabhade family. The water in the well is clean, clear, and cool. Fish can also be seen in it. In the main part of the well, the space for a ‘Rahat’ (water wheel) is visible at the top. Although the wheel is no longer there, it was likely used to draw water in the past. Notably, there is a small Shiva temple built into the wall of this well. One can reach this temple by descending the steps from the area where the water wheel was located. The temple sees a large influx of devotees during Mahashivratri and Shravani Mondays.

While it is said that Khanderao Dabhade’s family built this temple, some historians believe it dates back to the Yadava period, making it nearly 1,100 years old. Some also believe the temple was previously known as Ghumateshwar.

Talegaon Dabhade, near Pune city, is an important station on the Pune suburban railway line. Trains like the Deccan Express and Koyna Express also halt at Talegaon. Notably, this temple is located right next to the railway line. Devotees can enter the sanctum to seek the blessings of Kedareshwar from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery