Parali Mahadev Mandir In Maharashtra's Satara Made State-Protected Monument

Satara: The ancient Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple in Parali near Maharashtra's Satara City has been announced as a state-protected monument. This was announced recently by the Maharashtra Government's Department of Tourism. 

A circular regarding this has been issued recently, a state official said on Friday. The residents of the area are hoping that the temple will now be protected and redeveloped.

For many years, the villagers of Parali had been following up with the state government for the transformation and restoration of this temple in their village. The Mahadev Temple at Parali dates back to the 13th/14th century and consists of a sanctum (garbhagriha), an antechamber (antaral), and an assembly hall (sabhamandap).

The sanctum rests on four half-pillars. The entrance has three sections: the first is carved with lotus petals and various animal designs, the second is a pillar section, and the third features intricate geometric patterns. 

On the lintel is an idol of Lord Ganesha, and on the northern stone wall are geometric carvings. The sabhamandap stands on 16 pillars, of which four are complete pillars. In front of the temple is a manastambha (pillar of honor). A total area of 1 hectare and 61 ares has been designated as the monument's protected area.

Currently, the temple is managed by the Shri Kedareshwar Devasthan Trust under the Parali Gram Panchayat. The premises also have rare veergaal and sati stones. However, due to insufficient funds with the trust for maintenance and repairs, the restoration and development work here has stalled. 

This Shiva temple is unique for its architectural design. The Mahadev Temple’s pillars feature beautiful carvings, including an illusionary sculpture on one pillar. Inside the sanctum is a Shiva lingam and a beautiful yet damaged idol of Goddess Mahishasuramardini.

Now that this grand and divine temple has been granted the status of a state-protected monument, its appearance is set to change, adding another tourist attraction to the district.