24/05/2026
ICCR Sub Zonal Office Pune visited Chalukya Era Wagheshwar Temple and Shillim Institute on 21 May 2026. A group ICCR students came for the visit.
The Wagheshwar Temple in Pawna, Maharashtra, is a historic, roughly 1,000-year-old Lord Shiva temple known as the "submerged temple". Located inside the Pawna Lake reservoir near Lonavala, it remains underwater for 8 to 10 months annually and resurfaces briefly during peak summer as water levels recede.
The group later on visited Dharana which houses Shillim Institute. There was a presentation of their activities involving preservation of surrounding nature and make villagers understand the value of conserving it. Also introduction to "Abhivyakti" where village children are taught Dance, Music (singing, tabla & pakhawaj) and theatre.
There was a session of Warli painting for the visiting students.
Finally we attended "Abhivyakti" performances of 120+ boys and girls from neighbouring villages who learnt dance, music and theatre over a period of 20 days and showcased their skills to a near full audience.
Glimpses of the wonderful n memorable visit.
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