Mulshi’s Natural Heritage – Sacred Groves – Ghutke’s Palanjai, Aadgaon’s Mhatoba, Bhode’s Waghjai
History of Sacred Groves:
The tradition of sacred groves (Devrayi) has existed since Vedic times. These groves carry a deep spiritual sentiment and are preserved out of reverence and a sacred fear of deities. This fear-driven faith has played an important role in protecting and conserving forests.
Ecological Importance of Sacred Groves:
Since these groves are preserved in the name of a deity, tree felling is strictly prohibited. Being extremely dense, they contain tall trees with thick trunks, ground-spreading vines, and layers of dry leaves where various animals and birds dwell. The perennial streams flowing through them provide water to local humans and wildlife. These groves are a treasure trove of medicinal plants. Many rare and endangered species are found only in sacred groves. They are rich in rare plant saplings, high-quality seeds, and offer pure oxygen.
Nature Conservation Tradition in the Western Ghats:
The tribal communities of the Western Ghats, especially the Mahadev Koli tribe, have preserved these sacred groves out of faith in the forest deities. Locals also refer to them as “Devrathi” or “Devacha Ban” (God’s Forest). However, increasing urbanization, attraction of youth to cities, and the buying and selling of surrounding lands have threatened the concept of sacred groves. Many groves, ranging from a few gunthas to several acres, have been sold off by farmers. Some large projects have pushed these groves to the verge of extinction.
Sacred Groves in Pune District:
Most sacred groves in Pune district are located in the Western Ghats. The talukas of Bhor, Velhe, Mulshi, Maval, Khed, Ambegaon, and Junnar have a significant number of groves. At one time, Mulshi alone had about 150 sacred groves, but currently only around 70 to 80 can be seen. Notable surviving sacred groves include Somjai and Karanjai in Bhor, Shirkai in Velhe, Aajivali in Maval, Shive and Bhorgiri in Khed, Bhimashankar in Ambegaon, and Ahupay in Junnar.
1) Palanjai – Ghutke (Taluka Mulshi):
Located before Bhambarde village while heading towards the forts of Ghangad and Tailbaila, this sacred grove is known as Ghutke’s Palanjai. Out of faith or perhaps superstition, people seeking children pray to the deity here. Upon having a child, they offer a cradle to the deity. Despite urban influences, locals have preserved this densely forested sacred grove.
2) Waghjai Devi Grove – Bhode (Taluka Mulshi):
Situated in Bhode village in the Mutha Valley, the Waghjai sacred grove spans about 40 acres and is rich in biodiversity. The villagers have passionately preserved and protected this grove.
3) Aadgaon’s Mhatoba Sacred Grove:
Located before Bhambarde, this grove is also dense with biodiversity. Every year, a tall tree from the forest is selected for ritual worship. Devotees known as “Khandekari” carry a symbolic staff (kavad) on their shoulders from here to the Mhatoba temple in Hinjawadi, after which a large pilgrimage event (Kavad Yatra) takes place.
4) Aajivali Sacred Grove – A Serene Retreat in Nature:
Located in the Maval taluka, on the border of Mulshi, this grove is a confluence of forts, religious sites, water bodies, and hills. It offers views of Tung, Lohagad, and Visapur forts, and overlooks the wide blue waters of the Pavana reservoir.
The grove sits on a cliff nearly half to three-quarters of a kilometer long, surrounded by thick green forests. The Waghjai temple here is a notable spiritual spot, attracting many devotees from Mumbai, Pune, and beyond.
A dilapidated metal-roofed shed and a small stone shrine house the deity’s idol. Behind the idol is a rock wall with a cave around 8 feet high and 2.5 to 3 feet wide. Its full length remains unknown.
This grove is a haven for bird watchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and tree lovers. Even in harsh sun, you can sit under any tree and hear a symphony of birds. The rare Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), usually found only in Bhimashankar, is seen here.
Monkeys and langurs are commonly spotted drinking from the tops of palm trees.
Spread over 11 acres, this sacred grove is filled with Raiwal trees, thousands of palm trees, and rare plant species.
Thick, long vines hanging from trees allow for a unique experience—climbing or swinging from tree to tree.
Aadgaon (Taluka Mulshi) – Mhatoba Sacred Grove
Bhode (Taluka Mulshi) – Waghjai Sacred Grove
Kolavade (Taluka Mulshi) – Idol in Walanjai Sacred Grove