Pune: On Lines of Uttarakhand’s Devbhoomi, Chinchwad MLA Seeks ‘Santbhoomi’ Status for Dehu-Alandi
Pimpri Chinchwad, 17th June 2026: Chinchwad MLA Shankar Jagtap has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking the declaration of the pilgrimage region between Dehu and Alandi as “Santbhoomi” (Land of Saints), citing its historical and spiritual significance to the Warkari tradition.
In his letter, Jagtap said Maharashtra has a rich legacy of saints and that Alandi and Dehu occupy a special place in the state’s spiritual heritage. While Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj attained Sanjivan Samadhi at Alandi, Sant Tukaram Maharaj lived and attained Vaikunthgaman at Dehu. He noted that the 16-km stretch between the two towns is deeply associated with the Warkari sect, devotional literature and spiritual traditions.
Jagtap stated that lakhs of devotees visit the two pilgrimage centres every year and that preserving and recognising the cultural and spiritual importance of the region has become necessary. He said a formal designation as Santbhoomi would help protect and promote this heritage.
Referring to Uttarakhand, which is widely known as Devbhoomi (Land of Gods), Jagtap said a similar recognition should be considered for the Dehu-Alandi region. According to him, local residents and members of the Warkari community have also been demanding that the area be accorded a special status.
In the letter, the MLA said the move would contribute to the preservation of Maharashtra’s saint tradition and strengthen the cultural and spiritual legacy of the Warkari movement. He added that granting the region the status of Santbhoomi would be a significant step towards recognising an area that holds immense religious importance for millions of devotees across the state.
