Today, devotees observed the Punyatithi (death anniversary) of Shri Sant Wahalkarbuwa Maharaj with deep reverence and spiritual devotion at his shrine on the banks of the sacred river Kashyapi in Sawarde village.
The holy place holds great historical and spiritual significance. After the restoration of Shri Sant Wahalkarbuwa’s shrine in 1999, Shri Sant Digambarbaba Walawalkar and Shri Maharaj constructed a small Maruti dome at Sawarde, the very place where the saint was cremated. A shrine was built beside it, and the Asthi Kalash (sacred remains) of Shri Wahalkarbuwa was respectfully installed there.
Since 1953, Shri Digambarbaba resided at this sacred site. In the same year, Shri Maharaj initiated the annual Punyatithi festival of Shri Wahalkarbuwa and personally ensured its proper observance every year. After the passing of Shri Sitarambuva on 18 January 1969, the shrine gradually fell into neglect and became dilapidated.
Later, honoring the vision and resolutions of Shri Maharaj, Shri Kaka Maharaj took responsibility for reviving the sacred place. Under his guidance, the temple of Shri Wahalkarbuwa was rebuilt into a beautiful and serene spiritual complex on the banks of the Kashyapi river.
At the heart of the temple are the Paduka (holy footwear) of Shri Wahalkarbuwa, along with a magnificent oil painting of the saint, created by renowned artist Mr. Kalyan Shetye of Sangli. The temple complex includes a spacious hall, a large courtyard, and an Audumbar tree behind the temple. At the base of the tree stands a crystal Shivalinga installed by Shri Maharaj, along with a well dug by Digambarbaba himself. The river Kashyapi flows peacefully on the left side, while a small Maruti temple stands to the right, making the surroundings ideal for meditation and spiritual practice.
On this auspicious Punyatithi, devotees gathered to offer prayers, meditate, and remember the life and teachings of Shri Sant Wahalkarbuwa Maharaj, whose legacy continues to inspire faith, devotion, and spiritual discipline.
