LATUR

According to locals, the Siddheshwar Ratneshwar Mandir, the Gramdaivat of Latur, was built in the 12th century during the Rashtrakuta rule under King Amoghavarsha III. This 700-year-old mandir is an important religious site and a well-known tourist attraction. The mandir is noted for its intricate stone carvings. A Sanskrit inscription, estimated to be around 700 years old, is also found here. To the left of the mandir stands the murti of Sapta Sundari.

The annual jatra, lasting 17 days, begins on Mahashivratri. The festival grounds are illuminated in the evening, drawing bhakts from Marathwada, Telangana, and Karnataka. The yatra includes various stalls, children's toys, and other attractions.

In the month of Shravan (July-August), a yatra to the Shri Neelkantheshwar Mandir in Killari draws a large number of people. The palakhi begins in the morning with bhakts carrying flags and chanting "Om Namah Shivaya," "Har Har Mahadev," and "Shiv Shiv Samb Sadashiv" to the rhythm of drums. The palakhi travels to the Shivling Pindi at Ishwar Dod, located three kilometers away, before returning to the mandir.

The yatra lasts 11 days and includes daily sermons, bhajan, and night kirtan. The mandir premises are lined with shops, toy stalls, and entertainment options such as dance and breakdance performances. Social initiatives, including eye check-ups, surgeries, and blood donation drives, are also conducted. Women welcome the palkhi with rangoli, bell flowers, and shrifal.

Thousands of people from nearby villages such as Mangrul, Gubal, and Nandurga visit for abhishek, especially on Mondays during Shravan. The Gurav (Pujari) Community and the Devstan community actively organize this yatra, which begins on the second day of Rakhi Purnima.