PARBHANI

In Parbhani, built heritage reveals the district’s deep-rooted association with the Hemadpanthi architectural style, shaped during the Yadava period and marked by stone construction without mortar. The Shri Narsimha Mandir in Pokharni and the Mudgaleshwar Mandir along the Godavari both reflect this tradition, combining architectural precision with enduring devotional practices. Their compact garbhagrihas (sanctum) and seasonal river settings shape unique modes of yatra. Meanwhile, the Arvi Stepwell shows how this same style extended to public infrastructure, where utility met craftsmanship in water architecture. Together, these sites reflect a regional culture grounded in religious continuity, resourcefulness, and architectural resilience.

Shri Narsimha Mandir in Pokharni village follows the Hemadpanthi architectural style, which flourished under the Yadava dynasty and is known for its stone construction without the use of mortar. Located about 18 km from Parbhani, the Mandir is believed to date between 1000 BCE and 1300 BCE, making it one of the oldest in the region. The site remains an important yatra destination, attracting people from Maharashtra and neighboring Andhra Pradesh.

A distinctive feature of the Shri Narsimha Mandir is the unusually small garbhagriha which measures only 3 by 4 ft. The entrance to this garbhagriha is just 3 ft. high, requiring devotees to bend or squat to enter—a symbolic gesture signifying humility and effort in seeking darshan during the Kali Yuga. The Mandir compound is relatively large and continues to draw pilgrims year-round, particularly during major festivals and auspicious days.

Mudgaleshwar Mandir is an 8th-century Mandir constructed in the Hemadpanthi architectural style, marked by dry stone masonry using locally available materials without mortar. This style, which gained prominence during the Yadava period, is known for its durability and simple, yet refined stonework. The Mandir is located on the banks of the Godavari River in Parbhani district. Historically known as Devbhoomi—meaning “land of God”—the site has long been regarded as a spiritually significant space in the region.

The Mandir complex consists of three main mandirs. One, dedicated to Bhagwan Narsimha, stands on the riverbank. The other two—dedicated to Bhagwaan Shiv as Mudgaleshwar and Bhagwaan Ganesh as Mudgal Ganesh—are situated on platforms within the river itself, accessible during the dry season. During monsoon, the mandirs are often surrounded by water, creating a striking visual and spiritual setting.

Arvi Stepwell in Parbhani district is built in the Hemadpanthi architectural style, which developed during the 12th–13th century rule of the Yadava dynasty in Devagiri. Located in Arvi village, the stepwell reflects the stone-based construction techniques promoted by Hemadpant, a minister in the Yadava court, known for encouraging the use of locally available materials without mortar.

Stepwells, also called baravs, were more than just sources of water. They were subterranean structures that blended utility, spirituality, and architectural finesse, serving as public spaces for gathering and ritual. The Arvi Stepwell is one such example, built not for religious worship but for daily use, while still carrying the artistic sensibilities of the Hemadpanthi style.

The stepwell features layered stone masonry, geometric steps, and sturdy pillars, characteristic of Hemadpanthi design. Though simpler than mandir complexes, it demonstrates the same attention to proportion and detail seen in structures of the Yadava period. The use of stone blocks fitted without mortar reflects the durability and engineering skill of Hemadri-era artisans.

Arvi Stepwell stands as a reminder of how water architecture in medieval Maharashtra was both functional and finely crafted, rooted in regional styles and built to endure time and use.