Maharashtra is known for its ‘Santa Parampara’ and ‘Bhakti movement’ for many centuries. A spiritual master or a ‘Sadguru’ is vital part of one’s life to attain Moksha. Lord Dattatreya is considered as Param Guru and His multiple incarnations are worshipped all over India. Pithapuram is the birth place of Shripad Shrivallabha who is considered as the first incarnation (Avataar) of Lord Dattatreya in Kaliyug. Pithapuram is a village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh (20 KMs from Kakinada). Shripad Shrivallabha Avataar was in 13th century. He stayed at Pithapuram for first 16 years of His life.
As per the predictions in the hagiography of Shripada- “Shripad Shrivallabha Charitramruta”, a Paduka Mandir has been constructed in Pithapuram and is being maintained by Shripad Shrivallabha Mahasamsthan. Many devotees are visiting this place in increasing numbers, especially making beeline on Rakhi Poornima, Ganesh Chathurthi, Guru Dwadashi, Datta Jayanti and many other significant days mentioned in the life history of Shripad Shrivallabha. Most of these devotees are from Maharashtra.
Due to the geographical location pilgrims generally reach Pithapuram around evening and have to stay overnight. However, the lodging facilities in the whole vicinity are inadequate. Moreover, as mentioned in the Charitamruta “Great personages, great yogis and people of all countries will come to My darbar to have My darshan, like rows of ants.” the signs are already visible, especially during festivals and auspicious days.
After paying many visits to this holy place, H. H. Shri Haribhau Niturkar Joshi(Bhau) Maharaj, took an initiative to overcome the difficulties faced by the devotees. Under his chairmanship, Sadguru Nivas Charitable Trust has been formed and is registered under The Mumbai Public Trust Act, 1950. The trust is going to build a well-equipped Sadguru Nivas in Pithapuram as a not-for-profit initiative. The facilities include stay for around 250 devotees at a reasonable price. The trust has already acquired 2-acre land in the vicinity of the Mahasamsthan. A two-storied Sadguru Nivas is proposed on this land. Further, the trust also intends to build a Dhyan Mandir, Parayan Kaksha and Goshala.