{"id":22388,"date":"2024-07-09T22:50:35","date_gmt":"2024-07-10T04:20:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/?p=22388"},"modified":"2024-07-09T22:50:35","modified_gmt":"2024-07-10T04:20:35","slug":"jejuri-temple-pune-khandoba-temple","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/jejuri-temple-pune-khandoba-temple\/","title":{"rendered":"Discover Jejuri Temple Pune: Khandoba Temple History & Significance"},"content":{"rendered":"

Discover Jejuri Temple Pune: Khandoba Temple History & Significance<\/h1>\n

Jejuri Temple Pune \u00a0is a famous temple town<\/strong> located about 50 km from Pune<\/strong>. It is the main worship place of Khandoba<\/strong>, also known by different names like Mhalsakant, Malhari Martand, and Mylaralinga<\/strong>. Khandoba is a special god for many Maharashtrian families<\/strong>, including warriors, priests, farmers, and herders<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The Jejuri Temple<\/strong> is on top of a hill<\/strong> that is 758 meters high<\/strong>, and the hill has a lot of lime deposits<\/strong>. These were used to build Shaniwar Wada Fort<\/strong>, a very important fort of the Maratha Empire<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

One of the most exciting festivals here is the Bhandara Festival<\/strong>. It brings nearly six lakh people<\/strong> to the temple town! During the festival, people throw haldi (turmeric powder)<\/strong> while they climb the hill<\/strong> to the temple, making the whole place look bright yellow<\/strong>. Because of this, Jejuri is often called “sonyachi Jejuri”<\/strong> or golden Jejuri<\/strong>. This golden event happens three times a year<\/strong>. During the festival, a special idol of Khandoba<\/strong> is carried to the Karha River<\/strong> nearby, where it is immersed.<\/p>\n

To reach the temple, you have to pass through seven arches<\/strong> and then walk down some steps<\/strong>. The temple has a big courtyard<\/strong> surrounded by walls. There are 63 verandahs<\/strong> (like open porches) in the temple complex. The temple is built like a fort<\/strong>, with three gates<\/strong>, and because of this, locals call it ‘kot’<\/strong>, which means fort. Everyone who visits has to enter from the northern gate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Khandoba Temple Jejuri Pune:<\/h3>\n

Jejuri \u2013 The Golden Temple<\/strong><\/p>\n

Jejuri, located 48 km from Pune<\/strong>, is famous for its two temples<\/strong> \u2013 the ancient \u2018Kadepathar\u2019<\/strong> and the easier-to-reach \u2018Gad Kot\u2019<\/strong>. The Kadepathar Temple<\/strong> requires climbing 750 steps<\/strong> to reach the self-manifested Linga<\/strong> of Lord Khandoba and Goddess Mhalsa. The Gad Kot Temple<\/strong>, with 450 steps<\/strong>, has 18 arches<\/strong> and 350 lamp pillars<\/strong> that fill the place with the yellow hue of turmeric<\/strong>, making Jejuri a truly vibrant destination.<\/p>\n

\"Front
Front View of the Temple<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Jejuri Temple Pune Significance:<\/h4>\n

The Jejuri Temple Pune worships Hindu gods, with\u00a0 Khandoba God as the main deity. Khandoba is also famous as Khanderao, Khanderava, Malhari, Martand, and Mallu Khan<\/strong>. He is essentially an avatar of Lord Shiva and is revered in both Vaishnavas and Jain traditions. Khandoba is one of Maharashtra’s most popular deities, and Jejuri is the most important.<\/p>\n

He is a benefactor deity for the agricultural caste, Brahmins, hunters, and Dhangar people<\/strong><\/a>, who live in the area’s hills and forests. The Khandoba cult links to both Jain and Muslim cultures.<\/strong> He is worshiped as a warrior riding a horse or bull, or as the figure of a Linga. The Jejuri temple is Maharashtra’s most famous place for Khandoba devotion.<\/p>\n

\"Jejuri
Jejuri Temple Steps ( Main Gate )<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Jejuri Temple History:<\/h3>\n

According to legend, two demons, Malla and Mani, were causing chaos on Earth and troubling the sages. When Indra and Vishnu couldn’t help, the sages turned to Shiva. Shiva took the form of Khandoba, rode Nandi (the bull), and led his army to battle the demons<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

In this avatar, he had a third eye, a semi-circular moon on his forehead, and a turmeric-covered body. Khandoba ultimately defeated the demons after a fierce battle.<\/p>\n

Mani ( demon ) begged for forgiveness and offered his white horse. He requested to be present in every Khandoba temple and to be served goat flesh<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Shiva granted his wish and turned him into a demon. Malla, worried about the potential destruction of the earth, angered Khandoba, who then decapitated Malla. Malla’s head fell at the shrine’s stairs and was trampled by devotees.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Khandoba Temple<\/strong> has a rich history filled with legends and myths<\/strong>. Lord Khandoba, also known as Khanderaya<\/strong>, is a folk deity<\/strong> worshipped primarily in Maharashtra and Karnataka<\/strong>, representing the sun and fertility<\/strong>. This temple in Jejuri is one of the main centers<\/strong> for worshiping Khandoba, and its origin is linked to stories of Lord Shiva\u2019s incarnation<\/strong> to defeat demons.<\/p>\n

\"Nandi
Nandi at Jejuri Khandoba Temple Pune<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Jejuri Temple<\/h3>\n

The Khandoba temple Jejuri Pune built around 1608 AD. Ragho Mambaji, a Maratha chieftain, completed the central mandap and other elements in 1637 AD. The Holkar emperors constructed the outer chambers and other areas. Tukoji Holkar<\/a> helped complete the tank and battlefield around 1770 AD.<\/p>\n

Jejuri Temple Steps<\/h3>\n

Because the Jejuri Temple Pune is on a hill, Jejuri temple steps count is 200 stairs to climb.<\/strong> However, the ascent is not difficult, and the view over Jejuri town is breathtaking. If the weather permits, you may see Saswad and Dive Ghat.<\/p>\n

While climbing the steps, you can appreciate the panoramic view of the surroundings and capture some wonderful moments. Along the way, you can also see the famous ‘Deep Mala,’ or ‘Light Stands of Stones,<\/strong>‘ which are simple yet beautiful.<\/p>\n

Temple Details and Information<\/h3>\n

The Jejuri Temple Pune priests worship Khandoba using Indian Bael leaves, turmeric, onion, and other vegetables. They also provide a delicious onion and brinjal dish. As Naivedya, he is served a vegetarian meal, although his followers regard him as a non-vegetarian.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Jejuri
Jejuri Khandoba Temple India<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Devotees may occasionally sacrifice goat meat, but this rite happens outside the temple not inside the temple<\/strong>. The temple holds a six-day celebration in the Hindu month of Margashirsha as a memorial to Khandoba.<\/p>\n

Bhandara Festival<\/h4>\n

Jejuri Khandoba Temple is well-known for its Bhandara festival<\/strong><\/a>, which attracts over five lakh worshipers. Showers of haldi (turmeric), known as ‘Bhandara,’ turn the entire temple grounds and stairs yellow. The Bhandara festival, also called ‘Sonyachi Jejuri’ or Golden Jejuri, happens nearly three times a year.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Every November, an annual fair, commonly referred to as Jatra, attracts around 40,000 worshipers from Pune and surrounding areas.<\/strong> Dussehra is also a significant event here, featuring a popular sword-holding competition.<\/p>\n

Story of Lord Khandoba<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Lord Khandoba had two wives<\/strong>: Mhalsa<\/strong>, from the merchant (Vani) community, and Banai<\/strong>, from the shepherd (Dhangar) caste. Mhalsa is seen as a symbol of culture<\/strong>, known for her traditional cooking skills<\/strong>, while Banai represents nature<\/strong>. Their relationship is a well-known folklore<\/strong> story, showcasing how Khandoba balanced his love and devotion between them.<\/p>\n

Architecture of Khandoba Temple<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Built on a hilltop<\/strong>, the Khandoba Temple<\/strong> is an architectural marvel<\/strong> with a blend of Maratha and Hindu<\/strong> temple styles. The temple is famous for its golden spires<\/strong> (Kalasas<\/strong>), which shine brightly in the sunlight, earning Jejuri the nickname \u201cSonyachi Jejuri\u201d<\/strong> (Golden Jejuri). The temple is adorned with intricate carvings<\/strong> and mythological statues<\/strong>, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.<\/p>\n

Religious Significance<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Lord Khandoba is revered by warriors, farmers, and herders<\/strong>, symbolizing strength and bravery<\/strong>. The temple becomes the focal point of large religious festivals<\/strong>, especially the Bhandara Festival<\/strong>, where turmeric powder (Bhandara)<\/strong> is showered on both the deity and devotees, representing gold and prosperity<\/strong>. This unique practice gives the temple its second name, the “Turmeric Temple”<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Lord Khandoba Temples Across the Deccan<\/strong><\/h3>\n

There are over 600 temples<\/strong> dedicated to Lord Khandoba across the Deccan region<\/strong>, stretching from Nasik in Maharashtra<\/strong> to Devangere in Karnataka<\/strong> and from Konkan<\/strong> to Western Andhra Pradesh<\/strong>. Among these, Jejuri is the most prominent, often referred to as the capital of Khandoba\u2019s kingdom<\/strong>, known for its fort-like temple<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Entry Fee and Facilities<\/strong><\/h3>\n

There is no entry fee<\/strong> to visit the temple, ensuring all can seek blessings<\/strong>. The temple provides basic amenities such as water<\/strong> and sanitary facilities<\/strong> for the convenience of visitors.<\/p>\n

Darshan and Timings<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The temple is open all year round<\/strong> with darshan timings from 5 am to 9 pm<\/strong> every day, including:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Saturday to Friday: 5 am \u2013 9 pm<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Morning rituals start with the Kakad Aarti<\/strong>, while the evening ends with the Dhoop Aarti<\/strong> and Shej Aarti<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    Festivals and Celebrations<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Jejuri celebrates many vibrant festivals, such as:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Somvati Utsav (Bhandara Festival):<\/strong> Turmeric is offered to Lord Khandoba as a symbol of fertility and prosperity<\/strong>, and newlyweds often seek blessings here.<\/li>\n
    • Champa Shashti:<\/strong> A six-day festival<\/strong> in honor of Lord Shiva<\/strong>, filled with traditional rituals like offering bilva leaves<\/strong> and red roses<\/strong> to the deity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      How to Reach<\/strong><\/h3>\n

      Jejuri is well connected by road<\/strong> and rail<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

        \n
      • By Air:<\/strong> The nearest airport is in Pune<\/strong>, about 48 km away<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
      • By Rail:<\/strong> The closest station is Jejuri railway station<\/strong>, linked to major cities.<\/li>\n
      • By Road:<\/strong> State buses and private vehicles frequently travel to Jejuri from Pune.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Nearby Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\n
          \n
        • Jejuri Fort:<\/strong> Offers beautiful views of the town and temple.<\/li>\n
        • Siddheshwar Lake:<\/strong> A peaceful spot for relaxation and picnics<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Jejuri Temple Pujari Contact Number<\/h4>\n

          Jejuri Temple Pune is a famous temple in Maharashtra famous as the “Golden Temple” due to its yellow turmeric spread. It offers a deeply spiritual experience. For religious activities like Puja, Jagran, or other rituals, you can contact Pandit Ulhas Barbhai at 9850740276. ( Jejuri Temple Contact Number )<\/strong><\/p>\n

          Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n

          The Khandoba Temple in Jejuri<\/strong> is more than just a place of worship; it is a significant part of Maharashtra\u2019s spiritual and cultural heritage<\/strong>. From its golden spires<\/strong> to its vibrant festivals<\/strong>, the temple offers an unforgettable spiritual experience, attracting devotees and travelers alike to explore its deep-rooted traditions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

          Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune Jejuri Temple Pune<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          Discover Jejuri Temple Pune: Khandoba Temple History & Significance Jejuri Temple Pune \u00a0is a famous temple town located about 50 km from Pune. It is the main worship place of Khandoba, also known by different names like Mhalsakant, Malhari Martand, and Mylaralinga. Khandoba is a special god for many Maharashtrian families, including warriors, priests, farmers, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22415,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[6100,6101,6102,6103,6104,6105,6106,6107,6108,6109,6110,6111,6112],"class_list":["post-22388","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-rishikesh-day-tour","tag-jejuri-temple-contact-number","tag-jejuri-temple-darshan-timings","tag-jejuri-temple-location","tag-jejuri-temple-stairs","tag-khandoba-mandir-dhayari","tag-khandoba-mandir-hilltop","tag-khandoba-mandir-maharashtra","tag-khandoba-mandir-near-me","tag-khandoba-temple","tag-khandoba-temple-jejuri-pune","tag-khandoba-temple-mulgaon","tag-khandoba-temple-nimgaon-nimgaon-maharashtra","tag-khandoba-temple-open-bale-maharashtra"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22388","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22388"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22388\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22388"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22388"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rishikeshdaytour.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22388"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}