Club Activity: 1
Date: Saturday, 26 th April 2025
Venue: Gatha Heritage Temple , Dehu
Visit to Gatha Heritage Temple, Dehu – The Land of Sant Tukaram ‘Students learn more outside of the four walls of the classroom through visits and expeditions.
The first activity of the Heritage club was held on 26 th April, 2025. In order to explore and understand Maharashtra’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, the Heritage Club organized an educational trip to Dehu, a spiritually significant town located on the banks of the Indrayani River near Pune. Dehu is renowned as the birthplace and karmabhoomi (place of work and devotion) of Sant Tukaram
Maharaj, one of the greatest saints of the Bhakti Movement.
The purpose of the visit was to gain insights into the life and teachings of Sant Tukaram. Moreover, to understand the spiritual and historical importance of Dehu. Through this visit it was aimed to foster a deeper connection with Indian spiritual traditions among students.
The prominent highlight of the visit was the visit to the Gatha Mandir. This unique temple is built in the memory of the saint’s literary contributions.
The walls of the temple are inscribed with over 4,000 Abhangas composed by Tukaram Maharaj. Students were fascinated by the architectural beauty and the spiritual aura of the Gatha Mandir.
The visit also included a walk along the banks of the Indrayani River, where Tukaram is believed to have spent much of his time in meditation and composing Abhangas. The calm and tranquil river environment gave students a chance to reflect and connect with nature.
The group also had the opportunity to interact with local scholars Prof. Shri. Vitthal Kalokhe, and devotees who shared stories about Sant Tukaram’s life, his devotion to Lord Vitthal, and his role in spreading the message of equality, devotion, and love for all beings.
The visit was an enriching experience for all participants. Many students expressed that they felt inspired by Tukaram’s simplicity, humility, and unwavering devotion. The spiritual vibrations of Dehu left a lasting impact on their hearts and minds. The Heritage Club’s visit to Dehu was not just an educational trip but a journey into the soul of Maharashtra’s spiritual heritage. It instilled in students a sense of pride
and respect for our saints and their timeless teachings. Such visits are essential in nurturing values of devotion, humility, and unity among the younger generation. ‘Had I not been a part of the Heritage club, I would not have visited this place and would have missed out on the knowledge of the rich, cultural and spiritual aspect of the Marathi culture’ said Miss. Sejal Baheti., class XC student, when asked about
hes experience.
