Bhaskaracharya Site

The Bhaskaracharya Site at Patnadevi is a historic and religious location situated 18 km southwest of Chalisgaon in Maharashtra's Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary. It is traditionally recognized as the residence of the 12th-century mathematician Bhaskara II, who is believed to have composed his seminal work Siddhanta Shiromani here. The site features the ancient Chandika Devi Temple and Hemadpanthi Mahadev Temple, combining mathematical heritage with spiritual significance amidst the Sahyadri mountains.

Visitors can explore the ancient Chandika Devi Temple and Hemadpanthi Mahadev Temple within a forested sanctuary setting. The site offers historical structures dating back to the Yadava period, including inscriptions related to Bhaskaracharya's educational institutions. Nature trails lead through the Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary with opportunities to see waterfalls like Dhavaltirth and Kedarkund, watch towers for panoramic views, and nearby archaeological remains such as the Pitalkhora Caves located approximately three kilometers away.

Patnadevi was historically the capital of an important province called Patna (Vijjalgad) during the Yadava dynasty. The 12th-century mathematician Bhaskaracharya (Bhaskara II) lived in an ashram here and is said to have written his magnum opus Siddhanta Shiromani at this location. An inscription dated 1207 CE in the Chandika Devi temple records the establishment of a college (matha) by his grandson Changadeva for propagating Bhaskaracharya's works. The Chandika Devi Temple was completed in 1150 CE during the Yadava period.

The Chandika Mata of Patnadevi is revered as the Kul-Devta (family deity) of many Hindu castes and tribes in the Khandesh region. The site is considered one of the Varadahasta Shaktipeeths according to the Devi Bhagavata scripture. Devotees continue traditional rituals including carrying rice for puja in remembrance of Bhagwati from Dhawaltirtha as part of Kuladharma Kulachara customs.