🏛️ Historical and Cultural Highlights of Amalner Sub-Division
🌸 Sant Sakharam Maharaj Temple, Amalner – The Second Pandharpur
Located in Amalner, the Sant Sakharam Maharaj Temple is a revered religious center, often referred to as the ‘Second Pandharpur’. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this sacred site with deep faith. This temple is not just a spiritual destination but also a symbol of religious and cultural harmony.
🏰 The Fortified Amalner Fort and Historic Gateway
Amalner is home to a Bhuikot fort, with a grand stone gateway on its northern side that stands as a testimony to the town’s rich history. These ancient structures reflect the valor and architectural heritage of the region.
🛕 Ambarshi Hill – Temple of King Ambarish and Lord Vishnu
To the east of the city lies Ambarshi Hill, where one can find the samadhi (memorial) of King Ambarish along with a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This tranquil site serves as a spiritual and inspirational destination for devotees.
🔴 World’s Only Mars (Mangal) Planet Temple – Amalner
Amalner is home to the world’s only temple dedicated to the planet Mars (Mangal), featuring a unique idol of the deity. Alongside it is an idol of Mother Earth (Bhumata), making the temple even more exceptional. The site is especially popular for astrological remedies and spiritual devotion. It is easily accessible via rail, bus, or private vehicles.
🛕 Ancient Jain Temples – Masterpieces of Architecture
Amalner houses several ancient Jain temples, known for their exquisite architecture and religious significance. These temples attract both devotees and scholars, offering a deep sense of peace and spirituality.
📚 Land of Sane Guruji – Amalner Taluka
Amalner is the karmabhoomi (workplace) of Sane Guruji (Pandurang Sadashiv Sane) – a freedom fighter, writer, and educationist. He dedicated his life to spreading education and values through Pratap High School, setting a high moral example for society.
🎓 Pratap College – A Beacon of Educational Excellence
Pratap College, Amalner, is a renowned educational institution offering courses in science, commerce, arts, and technology. Thousands of students study here, and the college is nationally recognized for its research, innovation, and academic excellence.
📖 Pratap Philosophy Center – A Treasure of Ancient Wisdom
Ancient Literary Wealth:
The center preserves rare manuscripts on history, philosophy, theology, and culture, benefiting both students and researchers.
Workshops and Lectures:
Regular seminars and workshops on topics like philosophy and sociology are organized, making this center an inspiring hub for knowledge dissemination.
Preservation of Culture and Heritage:
The center takes pride in safeguarding India’s rich cultural traditions and heritage, serving as a guiding light for the younger generation.
🏞️ Chopda Taluka – Ancient Legacy and Natural Abundance
Chopda has a long human settlement history. Inscriptions, Hemadpanthi temples, and ancient sculptures found here testify to its glorious past. Artifacts from the Satavahana, Vakataka, and Yadava dynasties highlight the region’s cultural richness.
👉 Unapdev is a sacred pilgrimage site located in Chopda.
👉 The taluka is also known for its sugarcane and banana cultivation.