Pune: Raireshwar Mahadev Temple Leaks Despite Rs 82-Lakh Restoration Work, Devotees Express Anger
Bhor, 9th September 2026: The Mahadev temple located on the Raireshwar platue in Bhor taluka, has reportedly started leaking despite undergoing restoration work earlier this year, leading to disappointment among devotees, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj followers, tourists and local residents.
Restoration and repair work on the temple was undertaken by the Archaeology Department with funds of around Rs 82 lakh. The work began in January 2025 and continued for nearly three months. During the restoration, the temple was closed to visitors for a few days.
On April 2, 2025, the restoration work was formally completed in the presence of officials from the Archaeology Department, local residents and Shivaji Maharaj followers. However, the temple is now facing water leakage, including in the sanctum sanctorum.
With rainwater accumulating inside the temple, local residents have reportedly placed a plastic tarpaulin over the roof to prevent further leakage.
Raireshwar is a revered destination for devotees, Shivaji Maharaj followers and tourists, and attracts a large number of visitors for darshan. Devotees have expressed disappointment at seeing rainwater leaking into the historic temple.
The restoration work had been awaited for several years, but the recurrence of leakage after the work was completed has raised concerns over the quality and effectiveness of the repairs.
The Swarajyabhoomi Pratishthan has urged the Archaeology Department, Maharashtra government, concerned authorities, elected representatives and officials to take immediate action and repair the temple.
“Raireshwar is not merely a temple but a sacred and inspirational site associated with the history of Swarajya. Memories of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of Swarajya are deeply connected with this land. Therefore, preserving, protecting and properly maintaining this historic structure is the responsibility of everyone, along with the administration,” the organisation said.
