Pune: Jejuri’s Khandoba Fort Sanctum Sanctorums to Close for Repairs On Monday

Jejuri, 27th August 2023: Jejuri’s iconic Khandoba Fort, home to two revered sanctum sanctorums, is set to undergo much-needed repairs. Starting from August 28, both sanctums will remain closed for a span of one and a half months to facilitate restoration work. Devotees, during this period, will have the opportunity to seek blessings from a distance.

Popatrao Khomne, the Chief Trustee of the temple, confirmed that ritual activities on the fort will continue without hindrance, while the repair project will span from August 26 to October 5.

The state government, in a bid to preserve the historical Khandoba Fort, is spearheading development initiatives, with the restoration supervised by the archaeological department. An allocated budget of ₹107 crore has been approved for these efforts, encompassing various developmental projects within the fort premises.

During a comprehensive meeting involving priests, villagers, temple staff, and social workers, a detailed development plan was formulated. Notable figures such as Chief Trustee Popatrao Khomne, Ad Pandurang Thorve, Dr Rajendra Khedekar, Anil Soundane, Mangesh Ghone, Ad Vishwas Panse, Abhijit Devkate, Manager Rajendra Jagtap, and Pramod Chavan were present at the meeting. The congregation produced numerous constructive suggestions, driving the development strategy forward.

Throughout the repair duration of the main sanctum sanctorums, select rituals will be conducted at the Panchling Bhuleshwar temple. A request was made to ensure that when repairs are completed at the main sanctum sanctorum and while Panchling Bhuleshwar temple undergoes its restoration, rituals should be held at the main temple.

Though the sanctum sanctorums are undergoing restoration, devotees will encounter no disruptions in performing rituals on the fort premises. Continuous worship of Lord Khandoba will be observed, yet entry into the sanctum sanctorums will be restricted to maintain the sanctity of the restoration process, as confirmed by the board of trustees.

The repair endeavor has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate the convenience of both priests and devotees. The board of trustees also issued an appeal, inviting devotees to contribute to the development initiatives.

Historically, the temple of Lord Khandoba dates back to the eighth century, while the fort’s fortifications were progressively established by Maratha chieftains in 1637, 1712, and 1742. With the archaeological department undertaking the fort’s restoration, the monument is poised to regain its historical splendor, standing as a testament to the illustrious legacy of the Marathas.