Pune the cultural city of Maharashtra is located near the west coast of India in the Sahayadri Hills. It is also one of the largest industrialized towns of Maharashtra. Sightseeing in Pune includes some of the finest temples of the city.

Omkareshwar Temple situated near the Balgandharva auditorium in Shaniwar Peth is one such fine temple with extraordinary style in stone carvings. This shrine is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Pune and is frequented by devotees and tourists.

History of Omkareshwar Temple:-

Omkareshwar Temple is a 17th century Parvati temple in Pune constructed on the banks of Mutha River during the tenure of Sadashivrao Bhau. This shrine is built by Krsnaji Panta Citrava between 1740 and 1760 by money raised from public donations. It is said that Sadashivrao Bhau who was the cousin of Nana Saheb Pehswa donated Rs. 1000 every month till the work was completed.

Architecture of Omkareshwar Temple:-

The main feature of the Omkareshwar temple is its mosquelike structure. It is famous for having survived the massive floods of Panshet in 1962 and also known for its extraordinary stone structure gemstructured construction and extravagant style. The extraordinary style of stone carvings here proves an exotic view of columns and arts.

The ancient Indian architectural works are reflected in the artistic carvings of this 250 years old temple with an old world charm. There are typical Hindu based designs and the themes can easily be understood by taking a closer look. There are sculptures of Hindu Gods in the temple and they are either gold or copper plated.

The white dome of the temple is made of soft soap stone displaying intricate carvings on the upper portions as well as on the stone roof of the temple. The shrine is surrounded by verandas with columns. The verandas are very beautiful and intricately designed and the columns are carved in circles polygons and squares. The tower or Shikhar of the temple is built in Nagara style and consists of five distinct layers each representing the image of a different Hindu God. Images of many Hindu gods are etched on the walls of the temple.

At the entrance of the temple is an imposing gateway built in Saracenic style and this leads to a large paved courtyard. And in the centre of the complex is the main shrine of Omkareshwar. Facing it is a small shrine with a giant statue of Nandi. The temple site extends into wellpaved ghats. The adjoining river bed can be approached by two flights of steps or ghats one from the main temple and other from the outside. During heavy rains the river water enters the courtyard and shrine.

Omkareshwar by Other Names:-

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati the wife of Lord Shiva. Omkareshwar is one of the many names of Lord Shiva. He is also called Shankar and Mahadeva. He is the God of Power the God of Shakti. And Lord Shiva is one of the three main deities in Hindu mythology Brahma Vishnu and Mahesh [another name of Lord Shiva]. Myth says that Lord Shiva had to drink a glass of poison to save the plight of mankind. Thus Lord Shiva occupies a very distinct position in Hindu theology. There are sculptures of other gods carved in the temple.

Two Shivalayas:-

The religious place has two Shivalayas namely Amruteshwar and Omkareshwar. Shivalaya means the abode of Lord Shiva and in these Shivalayas one can come across a Shivling which is worshiped by the devotees for their prosperity. One can visit both the Shivalayas while at Shaniwar Peth and also find worshiping centers of Lord Shiva where classes are held in spiritualism and eternity.

The temple is quite spacious and can accommodate a large number of tourists and devotees. On special occasions Omkareshwar Temple is decorated in a gorgeous way and this attracts a large number of tourists. Beautiful light arrangements are made which makes the temple look grand and beautiful. The temples magnificent stone structure and the exquisite carvings adorning the temple are a must see.