Nagpur: The iconic temple of Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukhmai, located in Dhapewada, Kamleshwar Tehsil of Nagpur, is on the verge of a significant transformation. The Maharashtra Government has sanctioned a whopping Rs 164 crore for the development of this revered pilgrimage centre, often referred to as the “Pandharpur of Vidarbha.”
Dhapewada holds great religious importance, especially for devotees of Lord Vitthal, with the temple’s unique architecture and spiritual ambiance drawing thousands of pilgrims annually. Adding to its significance, Dhapewada is the hometown of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
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Wednesday 12 March 2025
The Rs 164 crore grant, approved by the State’s Tourism Department, was announced by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde following a high-level committee meeting in Mumbai. The project aims to elevate Dhapewada into a major tourist destination. The comprehensive development plan includes the construction of residential complexes for pilgrims, upgrades to approach roads, and the beautification of the temple surroundings.
Additionally, the plan proposes the creation of a ‘Sant Nagari,’ a landscaped garden where statues of saints from the Varkari tradition will be installed, adding to the cultural and religious heritage of the site.
Alongside Dhapewada, several other religious sites in Vidarbha will also benefit from State funding. The Sant Gulabrao Maharaj Shrine at Bhakti Dham Prahladpur will receive Rs 25 crore for the first phase of its development, Ridhpur in Amravati district will be allocated Rs 15 crore, and Shri Govind Prabhu Devasthanam in Wardha district will receive Rs 19 crore for development.
This project marks a major boost for religious tourism in Vidarbha, enhancing both the spiritual and cultural appeal of these revered sites.
