Hunda nako Mama fakta Poragi dya mala

kanha tuzi gai re

marathi bhakti geet (playlist)

The Folk Art of Maharashtra

                 

              

                   The Folk Art of Maharashtra

Folk Art is a priceless treasure preserved by Maharashtra. Folk arts originated in rural Maharashtra as a means of entertainment and education. A few of the folk arts are also related to the spiritual and religious needs of the society. In the absence of literacy and basic education, these folk arts educated the financially and physically weak society. Besides giving information on medicines for illnesses and diseases, they also increased the zest for living through faith and devotion.

These folk arts, which originated primarily for the purpose of education, are not necessarily only for the rural folk but also for the modernized and urbanized people who have lost touch with the Marathi culture.

The folk arts of Maharashtra are the backbone of its cultural ethos. They have been responsible for every step of the way from education to entertainment in giving shape to the Maharashtrian way of thinking. Thus, we can say that Maharashtra is a melting pot of several different, contradictory yet harmonious identities. One might not confide problems with the housewife next door, but the kadaklaxmi coming once a year providing solutions to all problems and medicines for illnesses is a definite salve to all ails. You won’t stand someone walking through your field of Sorghum but would happily give a handful of the same to the Vasudeo who visits you every morning. We don’t know the name of our own great grandfather but the Helvi coming to the village once a year will give you all details including the address of your great grandfather’s great grandfather. A real policeman never visits the village but a mimic in the disguise of a policeman coming once a year has the children hiding with fear behind large baskets. Marriages are made in heaven, but the wedded life does not begin till the Gondhali performs the Gondhal. Offerings are made to God to bless one with a child, but once it is born, it is given away to the deity in God’s name. Half the village is busy in listening to the keertan and the other half is busy enjoying the tamasha. Some folks go the spiritual way, while some sacrifice goats in the name of God and eat the meat themselves.

Whatever one chooses to call these happy, varied and contradictory people of Maharashtra, one can’t escape the fact that they are definitely interesting!

Forts

                                              

                                           Forts

               

                      The poet GovindRaj has appropriately described the landscape of Maharashtra nestled among the Sahyadri Mountain, hills and valleys as:

Mangal desha, pavitra desha Maharashtra desha
pranam ghyawa maza ha Shri Maharashtra desha

Rakat desha, kankhar desha, dagdancha desha
najuk desha komal desha fulancha desha

(Auspicious land, holy land, Maharashtra
Accept my veneration oh great Maharashtra

Hardy land, strong land, land of boulders
Delicate land, gentle land, land of flowers)

Thus is the landscape of Maharashtra, at once dry, arid and mountainous, and yet made gentle with flora and fauna, dense forests. At the same time the courageous history of ChhatrapatiShivaji Maharaj is forever connected with the hills and dales of Maharashtra. The forts in these hill ranges bring alive this history even today. Swarajya was born in these forts and was also established through them.

These wondrous forts are not only a study for historians, but also a delight for trekkers and tourists.

Maharashtra is a land of forts, rugged terrain and also of warriors. So in most of the districts of Maharashtra, there are places of historical importance. One can also find artefacts from the bygone era.

District	Name of Fort
Raigad	Raigad, Karnala, Lingana, Dronagiri, Sudhagad, Avachitgarh, Sarasgarh, Tale, Ghosale etc. Sea-forts: Khanderi-Underi, Kasa, Murud-Janjira
Pune	Sinhagarh, Torna, Rajgad, Purandar, Vajragarh, Rohida, Visapur, Lohagarh, Shivneri, Malhargarh
Satara	Pratapgarh, Sajjangarh, Bhairavgarh, Ajinkyatara, Kamalgarh, Makarandgarh, Vasantgarh, Kenjalgarh, etc.
Kolhapur	Panhala, Vishalgarh, Bhudargarh, etc.
Thane	Gorakhgarh, Vasai (sea fort ), Arnala, etc
Sindhudurg	Devgad, Rangana, Manohargarh, Pargad, etc Sea forts: Vijaydurga, Sindhudurg
Ratnagiri	Suvarnadurg (sea fort), Jaigarh, Poornagarh, Vasota, Bhairavgarh, Prachitgarh
Ahmednagar	Pedgaon, Kharda, Bahadurgarh, Harishchandragarh, Ratnagarh and theBhuikot fort of Ahmednagar
Aurangabad	Daulatabad (Devgiri) , Janjala, Vetalwadi, Sutonda, Antur
Nashik	Anjaneri, Salher, Mulher, Galna, Ankai, Brahmagiri
Mumbai	Mahim, Worli
Dhule	Thalner, Songir, Laling, Bhamer
Jalgaon	Parola
Solapur	Akluj, Karmala, Solapur
Sangli	Ramgarh, Bagani, Machindragarh, Sangli, Miraj, Prachitgarh
Osmanabad	Naldurg, Parada
Beed	Dharur
Latur	Ausa, Udgir
Nanded	Mahur, Nanded, Kandhar
Akola	Narnala
Nagpur	Nagpur, Bhivgarh

Detailed information of some of the exceptional forts from the above list:

Raigad

This is one of the important forts of the Shivaji era located in Raigad (Colaba) district:Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajhad this fort built in 1664. Raigad was the capital of the Swarajyaestablished by Chhatrapati Shivaji. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation ceremony was held on this fort on 6th June 1674 (Shake 1597, Anandanam Sanvatsar, Jyeshta Shukla Trayodashi, Saturday). Even Shivaji Maharaj’s death took place at Raigad. This is why the Raigad fort holds a special significance.

The fort is surrounded by dense forest. The fort looks breathtaking from afar.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s samadhi is on the fort. There are also interesting historical artefacts and remains on the fort. Among these are Shivaji’s office, court hall, Hirkani bastion, Bhavani cliff, foundation of Shivaji’s mansion, remains of the market place.

There are approximately 140 steps leading up to the fort. A ropeway has been installed at the foot hill to facilitate those who do not want to climb up. There are also excellent lodging and boarding facilities on the fort. Jijabai’s, Shivaji’s mother, Samadhi is at Pachad, at the foot hill of the fort. Raigad is 27 km from Mahad. There are buses that ply from Mahad to the foot hill.

The great social reformer Mahatma Jyotiba Phule restored Chhatrapati Shivaji’s Samadhi. Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak initiated the public celebration of ShivJayanti from Raigad.

Rajgad

Rajgad is the King of Forts, so to speak,! Rajgad was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s favourite fort, and is one of the most impregnable forts. Shivaji Maharaj got this fort built and spent nearly 27 years, from 1645 to 1672, on this fort. For sometime, Rajgad was Shivaji Maharaj’s capital.

Even today Rajgad is appreciated internationally as one of the most impregnable forts. Rajgad is a fascinating but difficult to climb fort.

The view from the fort is magnificent; one can see the vast Sahyadri ranges, Kenjalgarh and Raireshwar plateaus, and several forts like Sinhagarh, Torna, Lingana, Purandar, etc.

The fort can be divided into four different parts based on geographical terrain and fortification. These are the three sub-plateaux (Machee) namely Padmavati Machee, Suvela Machee and Sanjevani Machee, and the central volcanic plug called Ballekilla (small fort).

Padmavati Machee (north end)
This machee is the site of Padmavati Temple, Padmavati Lake, Chor Darwaja (secret entrance), Pali Darwaja, Gunjavane Darwaja, Daru Kothar (storage of arms and ammunition), Diwankhana, Rajwada (ruins), Ghod Tale (Horse Lake), Sadar (office) and Dhalkathi (flag hoisting place).

Sanjeevani Machee (southwest/west end)
This huge, beautiful and royally constructed machee faces west and has a three-stepped (layered) fortified structure. Each of the lower levels is separated from the higher one by a fortified bastion with a gate that could be defended independently. The lowest level is beautifully fortified by double curtain walls (chilkhathi) separated by a deep trench, on average 12 feet across. One can walk between these walls. The outer wall has openings to let soldiers out for sudden attack.

Suvela Machee (south east)
This is another grand machee facing east with lots of secret routes and doorways. This one is a double-stepped fortified machee with the steps separated by a beautiful bastioned doorway. At the end of first step a hole cuts across the rock; one can sit on this hole (nedhe).

The final (lowest) step like Sanjeevani Machee is has a double curtain wall.
To the south side of this machee one can find a beautiful triangular bastion called Kaleswari buruz having an escape door near it. The home of the renowned military leader Tanaji Malusarewas in this machee.

Bale Killa (centre)
This is the highest part of the fort which has remains of palaces, water cisterns and caves. It has a beautiful entrance door called Mahadarwaja. One can view the whole fort and the vast surrounding expanse.

Shivneri

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth has given the Shivneri fort a special and permanent place in the chronicles of history. The fort is impressive at 1070 m. and spread out north-south. The southern part of the fort is semi circular which peters off towards the north.

There are various historical sites in the fort like the house in which Shivaji was born, Shivai temple, Hatti Darwaja (Elephant door), ShivaBai Darwaja, Badami pond, etc. It is said that Jijai named her son Shivaji after the goddess Shivai in the fort. There are also two massive water tanks named Ganga-Jamuna that contain cool water.

There are three hill ranges nearby that have Buddha rock cut caves.

Recently the Maharashtra government has built a large court hall there and named it ShivKunja. A sculpture, made of five alloys, of Jijai sitting on a lion and child Shivaji holding a sword has been instated there.

The Shivneri fort is in Junnar taluka, Pune district and is 94 km from Pune. There are lodging and boarding facilities atop the fort.

Sinhagarh

Made famous by Narveer Tanaji Malusare’s courage, Sinhagarh is a mere 24 km from Pune. Kondana was the erstwhile name of Sinhagarh. Narveer Tanaji Malusare sacrificed his life in a fierce battle and won the fort for Shivaji’s Swarajya. On that event Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajhad said Gad Ala Pan Sinvha gela (the fort is won but the lion is gone)about Tanaji. From then on, Kondana was renamed as Sinhagarh.

Sinhagarh is about 800 feet above sea level. The historical places worth a visit on the fort are Narveer Tanaji’s samadhi, Kalyan Darwaja, RajaRam’s samadhi, Amruteshwar temple. Similarly, Lokmanya Tilak’s bungalow is also in the fort. Tilak frequented the fort for solitude and rest, contemplation, study and to write.

This fort was used to incarcerate people during the era of the Peshwa. The fort was important during Shivaji’s era, Peshwa era and during the fight for independence.

One can see a beautiful vista from the fort; the Khadakvasla dam and the National Defence Academy are visible from atop.

Proximity to Pune city has made it a favourite tourist spot and weekend getaway.

Pratapgarh

The Shahir Tulshidas had said Rajgad Rajacha, Pratapgad Jijaicha! (Fort Rajgad is the king’s and Pratapgad is Jijai’s). Pratapgad was queen mother Jijai’s favourite fort. The construction of Pratapgad was completed in two years from 1656 to 1658. It was built under the supervision of Moropant Pingale. The fort is located in the Sahyadri ranges, in the glen of Jawali, atop the hill range. The fort is surrounded by a dense forest.

Afjal Khan, who attacked Swarajya, was executed by Shivaji Maharaj at this fort. In the tremendous battle that ensued during Khan’s attack, Shivaji Maharaj used guerrilla warfare with great expertise to vanquish Khan’s large army.

There are many temples at the fort dating to the Shivaji era. Other than these, there is a temple of deity Bhavani, and Chhatrapati Shivaji’s sculpture.

The famous hill stations Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani are close by. Pratapgarh is located in Satara district, 137 km from Pune city. There are buses plying to the fort from Pune. There are excellent lodging and boarding facilities at the foot hill.

Purandar

The Purandar fort reminds of certain important historical events: the birth of DharmaveerSambhaji Maharaj, the birth of Savai Madhavrao Peshwa, the trap laid by Diler Khan around the fortress, the challenging fight by MurarBaji, etc. The fort is around 1400 m. high. Diler Khan had surrounded the Purandar in 1665 with his large army. Murarbaji was the fort custodian. He bravely fought with a group of mere 800 Mavale for Swarajya, and sacrificed his life for the same. Despite both his hands being cut during a duel, he continued to fight till he was killed.

There are historical sites at the fort like Kedareshwar, Rameshwar, the Peshwa mansion, Khandakada, Shendya bastion, Hatti bastion, Murvi pond, Rajale pond, etc. There is also a statue of Murarbaji. One an see other forts like Sinhagarh, Rajgarh, Vichitragarh from the Purandar fort.

Currently the fort is in the hands of the National Defence Academy and the academy holds practice sessions there.

Purandar is located between the Nira and Karha rivers in Purandar taluka, 38 km from Pune city. There are State transport buses plying up to the foot hills. There is a beautiful temple of Pratibalaji in the Ketkavle village at the foot hill.

Sindhudurg

After the unsuccessful attempts of conquering Murud-Janjira, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built the massive impregnable sea fort near Malvan, and named it Sindhudurg. The fort was constructed between 1664 to 1667. The fort is spread across 48 acres and has 42 bastions. The walls of the fort were built using large stones and 72,576 kg of iron. It is believed that the material for construction was brought through a tunnel that was dug under the sea bed starting from the Malvan coast and ending inside the fort. Inside the Mahadeo temple at the fort is a well, and the tunnel is supposed to end on the wall of this well. This is an important fort of the Marathas. Many Portuguese experts were called over from Goa for building this fort. Around 300 workers toiled day and night at this site for three years. Shivaji Maharaj incurred great expenses in the construction of this fort.

The fort stands out since it is completely surrounded by the sea. There are some interesting sites at the fort like the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Shivaji Maharaj’s palm and foot prints, and his temple. There are also remains of Shivaij’s mansion, the flag staff, temples of deities Bhavani and Maruti etc. There are three sweet water wells too called Dudhbhav, Dahibhav and Sakharbhav. There is a one of a kind coconut tree which has two trunks.

One can only reach this fort via the sea; there are ferries available for the same off the coast of Malvan.

Panhala

This fort in Kolhapur district is another important fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. ShivajiMaharaj conquered this fort in 1659. An important historical event, where Chhatrapati ShivajiMaharaj escaped with just a few associates to Vishalgarh when Siddhi Johar surrounded the fort, occurred at Panhala fort..

Panhala is approximately 850 m. tall and is spread across 8 – 9 km. The fort has three entrances named Wagh Darwaja, Teen Darwaja, Char Darwaja. There are massive granaries in the fort. Ganga and Sajja Kothi are the important ones among these. The important sites at the fort include great poet Moropant’s birth place, samadhi of RamchandraPant Amatya, massive statue of BajiPrabhu Deshpande, statue of Shiva Kashid. Shiva Kahsid’s samadhi is in Nevapur village at the foot hill of Panhala. When Siddhi Johar surrounded Panhala fort with the intention of attacking it and capturing Shivaji Maharaj, a small battalion of Mavals held this huge army at bay to allow Shivaji Maharaj to escape. In the battle that ensued, Shiva Kashid sacrificed his life bravely in battle. BajiPrabhu’s courage and valour also created a mark in history in this battle.

Maharani (Queen) Tarabai managed the administrative affairs of the sovereign Kolhapur territory from Panhala as the capital for a while.

The Panhala fort is 20 km from Kolhapur city. The Jyotiba temple atop the Jyotiba hill is nearby. The natural landscape of Panhala is breathtaking. There is a motorable road that leads right into the fort. There are excellent lodging boarding facilities in the fort, with multiple hotels and lodges available. There is a veritable village inside the fort. A unique feature is the Hill station municipal council established here by the Government.

Torna

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj first conquered this fort to establish the foundation of hisSwarajya. This fort is 1404 m. above sea level. Unfortunately, even to-date there isn’t an easy path or steps that lead up to the fort. The only available path is extremely narrow and difficult and only expert trekkers visit this fort. There is an old iron ladder in one patch that has to be carefully climbed. But this fort is a trekker’s delight. The dense forest around the fort is a great offset to the fort. An English researcher had once said - Sinhagarh is a lion’s cave whereas Torna is an Eagle’s nest.

While constructing this fort Chhatrapati found a massive hidden treasure at this place, which made a valuable contribution towards establishing Swarajya.

There are historical sites at the fort which include Shri TornaJai temple, Bini Darwaja, GangaJai temple, Zunzar machee, TakMak bastion, BaleKilla, Kokan Darwaja, Hanuman bastion, Vetal, etc. Looking eastwards from the BaleKilla, one can see a vista that includes landmarks like Sinhagad, Purandar, Khadakvasla Dam, Raireshwar, etc. and westwards one can see Pratapgarh, Makarandgarh, and even Raigad afar.

The Bhor Institution holds a fair at the fort during Navaratri.

Torna is located in Velhe taluka in Pune district. There is a regular bus service plying from Pune to Torna.

Vishalgarh

Vishalgarh is permanently linked in history with the great valour displayed by Bajiprabhu Deshpande at the GodKhind battle. Bajiprabhu bravely held the army of Siddhi Johar at Godkhind till he heard the sound of the canon fired from Vishalgarh signifying the safe escape of ShivajiMaharaj from Pratapgarh to the Vishalgarh fort. His martyrdom made Godkhind into Pavankhind .

This fort located in Kolhapur district is at a height of 1344 feet and spread out 3 km long by 1 km wide. There are some historical sites inside the fort like the Mahadeo temple, samadhi of Phulaji and Bajiprabhu, a memorial of Ahilyabai (wife of Rajaram Maharaj), Sarkarvada, PeerbabaDarga , Bhopal pond, etc.

There is a trail leading up to the fort. The natural landscape around the fort is enhanced during the monsoons.

Vishalgarh is approximately 49 km from Panhala. Other than the monsoons, the state transport buses ply right up to foot hill of the fort. The Pawankhind of Gajapur is close by. There is lodging and boarding available in the Gajapur village at the foot hill. This place is a trekkers’ delight. Many youth, history lovers and trekkers do the Panhala – Vishalgarh trek in memory of Bajiprabhu’s valour.

Daulatabad (Devgiri)

There is no other fort in Maharashtra that can hold a candle to the Devgiri fort built by the Yadavas. Mohammed Tughlaq renamed Devgiri to Daulatabad. The Bahamani dynasty ruled this fort till 1526. Later the fort was under the Mughals till the death of Aurangzeb in 1707.

The fort is at a height of 200 m. There are seven entrances to the fort and a 2 km long impregnable fortification. There is a long pillar inside the fort. There are also other historical sites worth a visit like Hatti watering spot, BharatMata (deity of the country) temple, Chini palace, Meeth Andheri route, Khandak, etc. A unique feature is the vigilante tower that reminds one of the KutubMinar in Delhi. Janardan Swami’s, Saint Eknath’s Guru, samadhi is inside the fort. A unique feature of this fort is, in all the years, no King could conquer this fort through a direct attack.

The fort is a mere 13 km from Aurangabad. There are excellent transport facilities available from Aurangabad to visit the fort. Nearby are the Ajintha- Verul caves and Grushneshwar temple.

Sajjangarh

Sajjangad has a special significance in Maharashtra’s history due to the presence of Samarth Ramdas Swami at this fort. Samarth Ramdas resided at this fort for a considerable period, and went into samadhi too is at this fort.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquered this fort in 1676. Previously this fort was named Parali. The presence of Samarth Ramdas Swami changed the name of this to Sajjangarh.

The fort has two main entrances. ShriRam temple, samadhi of Shri Samarth, residence place of Shridhar Swami, Angalai temple, and a small display of the articles used by Shri Samarth can be seen at the fort. There is a pleasant and holy atmosphere at the fort. The RamNavami festival is celebrate with great pomp at the fort. There are lodging and boarding facilities available at the fort. The natural landscape around the fort enhances the beauty of the fort.

The fort is just 12 km from Satara city.

Murud – Janjira

Murud – Janjira is recognised as the strong, sturdy and impregnable fort off the coast of Konkan. There are historical records of Burhan Khan having built this fort in 1567 – 1571. Initially this fort was called Janjire- Mehroob. The word Janjira is Arabic for an island andMehroob is semi circular moon. Siddhi Ambar, the root person of the Siddhi family, acquired the territory around the fort. For the next 325 years, this fort was under the Siddhi family. Surrounded by the sea from all sides, this fort is a fine example of architecture. ChhatrapatiShivaji Maharaj, SambhajiRaje, Nana Phadnis, tried their utmost to conquer this fort, but all of them were unsuccessful. This fort remained with the Siddhis till the very end.

There are many animal carvings inside the fort. One can view stone edicts carved in Arabic,Panchayatan Peer, the mansion at the top of BalleKilla, and multiple cannons at the fort. The PaddhyaDurg fort built by SambhajiRaje is visible from this fort.

The fort is reachable only via ferry boats. The fort is in excellent shape even after 450 years. There is a massive mansion of a Nawab in the near by Murud village. This sea fort is 45 km from Alibaug in Raigad district. There is no human settlement inside the fort; but there is lodging and boarding available at Murud. It takes approximately 6 – 7 hours to see the entire fort.

Lohagarh

Lohagarh is a favourite tourist spot for many people from Pune. Lohagarh is a strong fort. The fort is at an approximate height of 1024 m. above sea level. The atmosphere inside the fort is very pleasant. The dense forest inside the fort makes the ambient temperature inside the fort very cool.

The architecture of the fort appears quite ancient. Shivaji Maharaj conquered this fort in 1648. But the fort returned into the hands of Moghuls during the Purandar treaty. The Marathas won it back finally in 1670.

There are many historical sites inside the fort that are worth a see. The fort is a one day trip from Pune. A breathtaking view is visible from the fort. Near by are the Karla rock cut caves. The Lithopress started by Raja Ravi Verma is also near to the fort.

The two forts of Lohagarh and Visapur are visible from the Malavali station.

Shaniwarwada

This fort, located in the heart of Pune city, was the capital of the Peshwa. This structure was at one time the centre of politics of the entire India. Bajirao I, the first Peshwa, laid the foundation of this fort on 10th January 1730. Consequent heirs completed the construction of the fort by building its bastions and entrance doors. The fort has some main entrances like Dilli Darwaja, Khidki Darwaja, and Narayan Darwaja, etc. One can see the remains and foundations of historical structures inside like Arse Mahal, the court hall of Shrimant Peshwa, water tank, residence place of Sadashiv Bhau, Hazari fountain, Diwankhana, Paga office, etc. The pillars of the Rang Mahal are beautiful carved.

There was a seven storied, seven roomed structure in the fort. It is said that the peak of the Saint Dnyaneshwar Maharaj temple in Alandi could be seen from the roof top of this structure. Approximately 100 people lived inside this fort in 1758. A massive that broke out on 27th February 1828 burnt out everything inside the fort. This fire burnt for seven straight days. This fort has experienced the presence of many a great politician and administrator from the first Peshwa to Nana Phadnavis.

The fort fell into the hands of the British in November 1817.

Currently the only original structures remaining are the bastion and the main entrance doors. There are very few remains of the grand structures inside the fort. There is a massive statue of the first Bajirao outside the main entrance. The fort has been a close witness to many an agitation and movement like the freedom movement, social reform movement and unified Maharashtra agitation.

Wardha 
It has been only 100 years since the Wardha city was established. This city has the Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave. Gandhiji came and resided in Savagram in 1936. Even today his residence and articles of use have preserved.

Chandrapur

This is a historical city. The fort built by a Gond king is located here. The Anandavan Ashramestablished by Baba Amte, amply awarded for the great social work by its founder, is located in Warora near Wardha. The Tadoba reserve, famous for its Tigers, Bison, Sambar, Chinkara and Nilgai, is located in Chandrapur district. 

Ghat like Malshej, Tamhini, Khandala, Borghat, Pasarani, Amboli, Amba, Radtondi, Kasara, Konkankada are famous for their trek routes and picnics.

There are several forts of historical significance in the mountain ranges of Sahyadri and Satpura in Maharashtra. It is a duty of each citizen to protect and conserve these monuments of historical importance. But since history is a neglected subject, conservation of artefacts, books, documents and maps of historical importance takes a back seat. In order to understand the development of mankind and civilization each one of us should know the history and each one of us should pass it on to the next generation.

A number of mountaineers, adventurous tourists and youth are impressed by the mountain fortresses. They are attracted by the tales of bravery, wisdom and the leadership qualities shown by Shivaji Maharaj at a very young age. The tourists should visit these historical monuments in order to protect these fortresses, to approach the future with a sound understanding of history and to enjoy and appreciate the nature. Some of the Ghat and plateaus have wonderful natural beauty and deserve tourist attention. The green foliage peeping through the Ghat, mountain peaks touching the sky, the difficult mountain passes and the small tile roofed houses, lush green patchwork of fields down below in the valley with the birds gliding over them, is a spellbinding view offered by almost all the Ghat.

The difficult and treacherous mountain roads may seem risky to the tourists but the beauty of the nature more than makes up for the risk, and trips to Ghats remain very popular.

Other Holy Places

Other Holy Places

Jejuri

                     This is deity Khandoba’s main temple in Pune. Khandoba is Maharashtra’s tutelary deity and is recognised as Jejuricha Khandoba (Khandoba of Jejuri). The old temple was located at Kadepathar, high up on a hill. A new Khandoba temple was built in Jejuri, which is also three decades old (it was built in 1712). There are historical records of the Moghul army destroying the temple. But, there are also records of Aurangzeb giving 1,25,000 silver coins, after placing a request with Khandoba for quietening the angered bees that were displaced from this temple.

There is a stone Deepmala (a pillar on which large number of oil lamps are lit during a ceremony) in front of the temple. One gets a Darshan (view of a holy place/deity) of Malhari Martand, that is Khandoba, only after climbing 200 steps. This hill is also called Navlakh payricha dongar (hill of nine lakh steps). The temple is beautiful. There is a court hall and an inner sanctum in which the idol has been instated. There are three beautiful idols in the temple of Mhalsa, Manimala and Khandoba. Khandoba is considered as the deity of war and therefore of the Marathas and chiefly of the Dhangar tribe. There are three ancient items, a sword,Damru and Paral maintained in the temple. Every year there is a contest for trying to lift the extremely heavy ancient sword with ones teeth. An individual who can hold this sword up high for the maximum time is declared the winner. There is a fair held here every Dassera, which is attended, in large numbers. Similarly devotees throng here in large numbers on Somvati Amavasya day.

There are historical records of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj meeting his father ShahajiRaje for the first time at this temple. Since ShahajiRaje would be out on a campaign for many days together, the two hadn’t met each other till this event. This event and place therefore is of great historical significance.

The exquisite carving on the Jejuri temple is worth seeing. There are also ancient structures near by that can be visited. Jejuri was a large fort in the south during the era of Shivaji.

Devotees throng this temple with devout chanting of Yalkot Yalkot Jay Malhar (hail to Malhar), throwing Bhandara (turmeric) in the air and applying it in devotion on their forehead. There is a tradition of the bride and bridegroom paying a visit to Khandoba after their marriage. Accordingly newly wed couples throng this temple from all over Maharashtra.

Jejuri is 50 km from Pune and a mere 15 km from the Ashta Vinayak of Morgaon.

Alandi

Alandi is a small village 25 km from Pune city. Located on the banks of the River Indrayani, this is the place where Saint Dnyaneshwar took Sanjeevani Samadhi. This is why Alandi has acquired the status of a holy place.

Accompanied by innumerable Warkari, a palanquin carrying the paduka (wooden slippers worn by saints) of medieval saint poet Dnyaneshwar starts from Alandi on the eighth day after full moon in the month of Jyeshtha. Travelling across the State it reaches Pandharpur (the main temple of the deity Vithoba) by night on the tenth day of lunar month of Aashadh that follows Jyeshtha. This distance of 208 km is happily traversed by the Warkari on foot lovingly chantingDnyanoba Mauli Tukaram.

The Ajan tree, under which Dnyaneshwar took Samadhi, can still be seen in the temple. The Samadhi is situated on the banks of river Indrayani. Other than this and the Samadhi, other places worth seeing in Alandi are MuktaBai’s temple, Vithoba-Rakhumai temple, and Krishna temple.

The first college, where Kirtan, Pravachan (religious lectures) is taught in Maharashtra is situated at Alandi. The Vedas and other religious books are also studied here.

Every year there are big fairs in Alandi on the eleventh day of Aashadh and Kartik.

In the temple premises there are lodges for the devotees and informative booklets and books are available for sale. It is possible to be accommodated in the village.

Pandharpur

Chanting the Name Vitthal and walking in groups called Dindi, several thousands of people go to the Pandharpur pilgrimage for years together. They are called Warkari. In Pandharpur they visit the banks of river Chandrabhaga, the Namdev step and come for the Darshan of Lord Vitthal. Following the teachings of the saint poets and going beyond the caste issues, the devotees of Lord Vitthal observe fast on the eleventh day of the lunar months Aashadh and Kartik.

Dressed in kaftans and shirts with a cap or turban on the head, carrying a saffron flag and cymbals in the hand and a tambourine slung around their shoulders, Warkari come to Pandharpur full of devotion. Tourism for them is to walk to Pandharpur, drenched in devotion to the God.

They bathe in the river Chandrabhaga, take Darshan, apply sandalwood paste and Bukka (holy ash) on their forehead, consume Prasad and turn back home. Pandharpur and Warkari share an extremely close bond, so much so that one is unthinkable without the other. The temple premises have many shops selling saffron flags, strings of Tulsi beads, Prasad and cymbals etc.

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation every year arranges special buses for the pilgrims. This has proved to be of great convenience to pilgrims coming from various places. Probably no other pilgrim centre in Maharashtra attracts so many pilgrims. There are several lodges, pilgrim shelters and Math in Pandharpur, hence it has become a must visit place for the pilgrims.

The merchandise on sale now includes cassettes, DVDs, CDs of Bhajan and devotional songs. Traditional items such as charms, amulets, pictures and photographs of gods and goddesses, as also books such as religious treatises, compilations of Bhajan etc. are on sale.

Dehu

Dehu is a small village 25 km from Pune city, located on the banks of the River Indrayani. Shri Tukaram, a great saint of the Warkari and Bhakti sect, was born and resided in Dehu, which gave it the status of a holy place. We still meet Saint Tukaram Maharaj today through the many Abhanga and Gatha composed by him. Shri Saint Tukaram Maharaj was a great devotee of the deity Shri Vithoba (Lord Vishnu). Accordingly, Saint Tukaram’s Paduka too are carried in a palanquin to Pandharpur in the pilgrimage.

A big fair is held here on the second day of the Hindu month of Falgun. It is believed that Saint Tukaram left earth and traversed to the heaven alive on this day. The Vitthal temple, ancient Shiva temple, Indrayani pond, carvings in caves at Ramchandra and Bhandara hills are worth a visit. Saint Tukaram would seek solitude in the Bhandara hills for mediation and contemplation. Kirtan is conducted here every Thursday and Ekadashi.

As per records NarayanBaba, Tukaram’s youngest son, built the current temple in the year 1723.

Akkalkot

This is a small village in Solapur. Swami Samarth Maharaj’s Samadhi is located here. Just 45 km from Solapur, it is visited by innumerable devotees. Swami Samarth of Akkalkot was a saint of the Nath sect who did intense penance. Devotees believe that he is an incarnation of the deity Dattareya, has had many re-births and is still alive today in another rebirth.

The Samadhi and Shivpuri Ashram are worth a visit. The Agnihotra tradition (keeping a flame alive constantly) is dedicatedly carried out in the Ashram.

Shirdi

Shirdi is famous for the great saint Shri Saibaba, who resided here for many years at the end of the 19th century. He guided the people on the path of devotion through his actions, giving two important lessons of faith and patience. He took Samadhi here at the beginning of the 20th century.

Later in 1922, a grand temple was built here and Saibaba’s idol instated. The temple is beautiful, with a façade of Italian marble. The idol is humongous. The Samadhi is also covered in marble, clean and attractive. Gopalrao Buti of Nagpur started building the temple for the deity Murlidhar (Krishna). But after becoming a great devotee of Saibaba, Saibaba became Shirdi’s Murlidhar and the temple became Saibaba’s Samadhi temple!

The place in Shirdi where Saibaba lived is called DwarkaMai, which was actually a dilapidated Mosque. Saibaba came to Shirdi as a child ascetic (Bal Yogi). The place where he was first seen is called GuruSthan (place of the Guru ). The place where he slept is called Chavdi. The garden, called LendiBag, which was lovingly created and nurtured by Shri Saibaba is well maintained even today. Baba mediated here every day under the Neem tree. The stone on which he sat every day in the temple premises is displayed at the temple. There is a small museum of all the things that he used, among which were the container from which he drank water, Paduka, hand grinding stone, Hukkadani (water based smoking device), Kafni , Khadavaetc. There are also some exclusive photographs of Shri Saibaba here.

Devotees of all religions caste and creed the world over throng here for the Darshan of Shri Saibaba. Every year, the count of devotees visiting here keeps increasing. The temple organization made arrangements of lodging boarding and Prasad (blessings of the deity in the form of food item or turmeric or Kumkum that is applied to the forehead). Several structure have been built to accommodate maximum people comfortably.

Shirdi is located near Kopargaon in Ahmednagar district, 300 km from Mumbai, 200 km from Pune. At a mere 60 km from the Manmad Junction railway station, it is very easy to reach this place by rail.

Shegaon

Saint Gajanan Maharaj made Shegaon famous. Two youngsters, Bankatlal and Damodar, first saw Gajanan Maharaj in Shegaon in the year 1878. He is considered as a rebirth of Samarth Ramdas. He is also considered an incarnation of deity Vishnu and that is why Shegaon is also called the Pandharpur of Vidharbha. He was adept in the knowledge and science of Yog andVed. He had acquired some spiritual powers through penance. He understood the language of animals and birds. While resolving peoples personal problems related to materialistic life, He guided them and set them on the path of devotion and philosophy. He gave the people the holy chant Gana Gana Ganat Bote, which was a prayer to Lord Ganesh, and therefore he acquired the name Gajanan.

Many renowned personalities like Lokmanya Tilak, AnnaSaheb Patwardhan, DadaSaheb Khaparde were his devotees. Many a great scholar, Guru , teacher, of Vidharbha would come to meet him. He was a unique saint who discarded all restrictions, wore no clothes, ate whatever was available, slept wherever he was, and never maintained any object with himself. His daily routine would be to guide people and constantly meditated and strived towards spirituality.

In 1908 he advised his devotees to set up a trust and accordingly the Gajanan Maharaj Sanasthan was set up to aid his devotees. In 1910, he revealed his desire to leave behind this materialistic world to his devotees in front of Pandharpur’s deity Pandurang. He told them the date and location on which he would take his Samadhi. On 8th September 1910, a Thursday, he took everyone’s leave. Thursday is when devotees throng in large numbers at Shegaon to takeDarshan of Saint Gajanan Maharaj. The Ram temple at Shegaon too attracts large number of devotees on RamNavami.

The Gajanan Maharaj Sanasthan has setup many educational institutes in Shegaon as also facilitated the devotees visiting the place.

Shegaon is a village located near Khamgaon in Buldhana district, 550 km from Mumbai and 300 km from Nagpur. The Shegaon station is on the Mumbai-Bhusaval-Nagpur rail route.

Mandhardevi

The deity here is KaluBai and the fair that is held is famous.

The temple is at a height of 1200 m atop a hill. One has to climb a narrow path to reach the temple.

Every year devotees throng the place on Shakambari Paush Poornima. Devotees first crack a coconut near the MangirBaba temple, take Darshan of KaluBai, then pour oil at the Deepmala.

Mandhardevi is about 25 km from Wai in Satara and 200 km from Pune.

Suvarna temple at Nanded

The Gurudwara (Sikh temple) at Nanded is considered as holy as the one in Amritsar. In 1708, a Sikh institution named Takht SachkhandShri Huzur Abachalnagar Sahib was established on the banks of the River Godavari in Nanded. Guru Gobind Singhji, the 10^th Guru of the Sikhs, managed the place at that time. Guru Gobind Singhji extolled the virtues of GranthaSahib, the Sikh religious book, saying that the book was the only Guru. But later, he was killed in this same location. A Gurudwara was built in his memory here.

In 1860, Maharaja Ranjit Singh brought workers from Punjab to Nanded and got the current Gurudwara built. There is a museum here named Banga Ma Bhagoji that displays large ancient weapons. Nearby in the premises, there is another holy place where the GuruGranthaSahib is read out aloud. The premises are quite expansive and can accommodate a large number of devotees.

In 2008, the Guru-ta-Gaddi was celebrated here to commemorate the completion of three centuries of the place.

The Gurudwara Guptasar Sahib, the second important Sikh holy place in Maharashtra, is located at ManMad.

Holy places in the Konkan region-

ShriKshetra Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is famous for its Swayambhu idol of Lord Ganapati. Even the hill which is near the temple is shaped like Ganapati.

Ganpatipule is located on the seacoast in Ratnagiri district. Since the Ganapati immerged on the beach (Pulan), the idol was named GanapatiPule. Some even call it Pulyacha Ganapati (Beach Ganapati).

There are deities at the gateway of each of the eight directions in India. Ganapatipule is considered the deity of the west.

There are historical records of several people contributing to the temple. Initially the temple had a simple roof. Annaji Datto, one of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s cabinet ministers, built a dome in place of the roof. The Peshwa’s Sardar, Bundele, built the court hall. Barve, the administrator of Kolhapur sovereignty, provided the gold plated Kalas at the top of the dome. Nanasaheb Peshwa provided the Nandadeep (a large brass lamp). Chimaji Appa arranged for the NagarKhana (place where the kettle drums are kept). Madhavrao Peshwa and Ramabai built a stone Dharmashala (lodging for the devotees visiting the place).

As is the practice everywhere else in Maharashtra, the villagers in Ganapatipule do not instate an idol in their individual homes during Ganesh Chaturthi. Everyone congregates at the temple and communally celebrate the festival.

It takes 15 – 20 minutes to go around the hill that is considered Shri Ganesh. Every year, the last rays of the sun fall on the Ganesh idol between 2^nd to 4^th February and 2^nd to 4^thsup November. The temple is located right next to the beach. One can enjoy he intense experience of the crashing of the waves, vast sea, endless horizon, extremely quaint and gorgeous temple, and the Swayambhu idol here. While circling around the hill, one can experience the vivid forms of the sea and the Konkan natural beauty.

Harihareshwar

The Shankar temple located here in district Raigad has a special significance in Konkan. There is a Shivling here and there are temples of Ganapati and Maruti located in the same premises. TheSkanda Purana has a folk lore associated with this place.

The temple has a sloping tiled roof as per the local Konkan custom, and therefore has a its own appeal. Despite the effects of the sea and creek, and not so very strong construction using the local Jambha stone and sand, the structure is still in good shape. This is because there was a tradition during the Peshwa era to renovate temples and holy places.

There is a well in the premises of the temple. Devotees believe that this was dug by Lord Brahma himself. There are two stone Deepmala here which are 20 feet tall. There are images of the trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh) and Parvati in the temple.

As per tradition in every Shankar temple, there is an idol of Nandi (the bull). Similarly theKalBhairav, believed to relieve devotees from demons, also has a special significance in a Shankar temple. Devotees make it a point to take the Darshan of Kalbhairav too in the temple.

Harihareshwar was the family deity of Shrimant Peshwa. There are records of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj visiting the temple.

The natural landscape is replete with the deep sea on one side and the Savitri River on the other. Some people circle the place (called LaghuParikrama or Pradashikna), which takes about 45 minutes. This path involves climbing steep slopes, traversing black cliffs, walking through water, walking along the difficult path, and enjoying nature’s bountiful beauty.

Harihareshwar is located in Shrivardhan taluka off the Mumbai-Goa highway, 53 km fro Mangaon.

Shrivardhan

Shrivardhan is another place in Raigad district famous as a holy place as well as a tourist spot.

There is a folk lore associated with the name Shrivardhan. The Vishnu idol in the Laxminarayan temple in the village has Padma, Chakra, Gadha and Shanka in a specific order in its hands. This is why this idol is named Shirdhar. The village developed (Vardhan) because of this Shri, therefore the name Shrivardhan.

This naturally bountiful village has the Tambdi hill to its north, the sea on its west and the creek to its south. The village extends engagingly into the creek. Shrivardhan is the Peshwa’s ancestral village.

This beautiful village has many ancient temples. Following is a brief description about them:

Kusumadevi Temple
Kusumadevi is the tutelary goddess of the village. This temple far from the village, up in the hills under the shade of trees. The temple has a tiled sloping roof and there is a large open space around the structure. ChaturBhuj MahaSaaswati, AshtaBhuja Mahalakshmi and ChaturBhuj Mahakali have come together here to form the Goddess MahaKusumaDevi. All these idols are cut from black rock and are 1.5 to 2 feet tall. The meaning of Kusum is Flower. It is conjectured that since the deity is amongst the flowers in the forest, therefore the nameKusumaDevi. It is said that this temple dates back to the ear of the Pandava. A big fair is held here on the days of Navratra and ChiatraGauriPujan.

LakshmiNarayan temple
The idol of Vishnu in this temple is a fine example of sculpture. This idol is 2 feet tall, carved out of black rock in the southern Indian style. Artistic and proportionate, this idol is probably from the Shilahar era. There is a sculpture of Garud near the right leg and that of Goddess Lakshmi near the left. Lakshmi is Vishnu’s (also called Narayan) consort, and therefore the temple is called LakshmiNarayan. There are idols of Jay-Vijay standing on either side of Vishnu. The Dashavatar is carved in the backdrop of the idol on both sides.

Somjai temple
This is ancient temple. It is believed that the ascetic Agastya Muni established the Somjai temple. It was renovated by the Peshwa. The entrance door of the temple is carved beautifully. The main temple has a tiled sloping roof in the typical Konkan style.

The deity is carved out of the Shaligram stone. The four forces of Shiv, Bhavani, Nandi and Vasuki together form Somjai.

A week long celebration is held in the temple beginning from Margashirsha Vadh Pratipada. The Navratra is also celebrated here with great pomp. Devotees believe that taking Darshan of both Somjai and Harihareshwar in one day is as beneficial spiritually as visiting south Kashi.

Jivneshwar temple
The inner sanctum of the temple is built in Hemadpanthi style and the Shivling is square and 5 – 6 feet tall. There are two large stone DeepMala in the premises. The water tank in the premises built of Jambha stone indicates that the temple might be quite ancient.

Peshwa temple
Shrivardhan being the Peshwa ancestral village, this temple is in the premises of the Peshwa ancestral home. There is a beautiful sculpture here of Shrimant Balaji Vishwanath Peshwawearing the Peshwa’s turban and cloth.

Other than these, Shri Ram temple, Arvi – Narayan temple, Devkhol – Kusumeshwr temple, Vakalghar – Gangadevi temple are other holy places worth a visit around Shrivardhan.

With their exquisite sculptures, carvings, pleasant and quiet atmosphere, and gorgeous natural landscape, these temples attract devotees, historians and tourists alike.

DiveAgar

DiveAgar is 171 km from Pune on the Pune – Shrivardhan route, and 156 km on the Pune – Mhasala route. The road is in good condition. Travelling by rail, one can get off at Mangaon station and take a private taxi to DiveAgar.

Various records indicate that the village is quite ancient. The Shilahar dynasty ruled this area for around 450 years between 800 to 1265. Trade and business flourished via the sea route. Unfortunately, the Arabians used the same route to loot the village and destroyed the temples. The Bhat and Bapat brothers re-established the village with permission from Siddhi Johar. There are records of this written in Modi script even today with the Bapat heirs.

Shri SiddhiVinayak is the primary deity of DiveAgar. There are records that this deity was the tutelary God of the Shilahars. The Ganapati idol in this temple is cut from stone. Next to this idol is the bronze idol of AnnapoornaDevi. An extremely ancient copper plate (TamraPat) written in Marathi was found here. Dating back to the year 1030, DiveAgar is thus important with respect to history of Marathi too.

DiveAgar became famous in 1997 because of the discovery made by Shrimati Daupadi Dharma Patil on 17th November 1997 – she found a copper trunk in her orchard of coconuts and areca nuts. This trunk contained a pure gold Ganapati mask weighing 1.325 kg along with some jewellery to adorn the idol.

ShriKshetra Kankeshwar

The Shiva temple at Kankeshwar is atop a hill known by the name of KanakDongri. Devotees believe that the hill was created by Lord Parshuram. The path leading up to the temple with 700 to 750 steps was built in 1764. There is a constant flow of water from the Shri KankeshwarShivling. The dense forest on this hill and the purity and peace at this place provide a great experience to devotees and tourists alike.

Ramchandra Amatya, who wrote the Agnyapatra that detailed the administration and politics of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, resided at Kankeshwar after retiring from politics.

There is a Shri SiddhiVinayak temple at Kankeshwar too. It was built by Lambodar Swami of Karad in 1798. The Ganapati idol was donated and instated by Maral Swami of Baroda.

The road to Kankeshwar is 12 km from Alibaug on the Alibaug – Revas road. 

Shri Kanakaditya temple, Kasheli

Allaudin Khilji attacked Saurashtra in 1296. There were twelve Sun idols on a pedestal in the Sun temple Prabhaspattan, Shri Krishna’s town of residence. When the Pujari of the temple learnt of the impending attack, he climbed on board the ship of a trader heading south the idols. That ship got stuck near the coast near Kasheli. He picked one those idols and hid it in a cave on the coast. This is a 400 sq ft natural cave on a cliff about 15 feet high at the coast.
Later, the ship moved ahead. When the villagers found the idol in the cave, they built a temple in their village and instated it. Shri Kanakaditya is this temple.

There are exemplary carvings and wooden images in the temple. The KanakAditya idol is cut from black rock. There is a silver chariot that can be viewed during the Rath (chariot) festival. The RathaSaptami festival is celebrated here for five days beginning from Magh Sudha Saptami to Magh Sudha Ekadashi.

There is a copper plate in the temple dating 850 years back. There is an article carved on it in Sanskrit.

Kasheli is on the Ratnagiri – Adivre- Poornagad route. 

Rajapur

It is believed that the River Ganga emerges here once every three years. The water flows for eleven days through at least fourteen springs. Some of these are hot water springs. This Ganga disappears as suddenly as she appears.

Chiplun

Chiplun is an old city situated on the banks of River Vasishthi. There is a temple of goddess Vindhyavasini and Parshuram, sixth incarnation of god Vishnu in Chiplun. Twelve km from Chiplun, in a place called Dervan, an exhibition of sculptures depicting important events from Shivaji Maharaj’s life is set up in the memory of Shri Walawalkar. This exhibition is called Shivasrushti. This place has recently become a must –see event in the itinerary of tourists.

Shri Maruti a.k.a. Hanuman

Shri Maruti a.k.a. Hanuman

Embodiment of Strength and Tenacity

                        

                      Hanuman, the mighty ape that aided Lord Ram in his expedition against evil forces, is one of the most popular idols in the Hindu pantheon. Believed to be an avatar of Lord Shiva, Hanuman is worshipped as a symbol of physical strength, perseverance and devotion.

Hanuman's tale in the epic Ramayana — wherein he is assigned the responsibility to locate Ram’s wife Sita abducted by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka — is known for its astounding ability to inspire and equip a reader with all the ingredients needed to face ordeals and conquer obstructions in the way of the world.

Worshipping the Monkey God

Many people maintain a fast on Saturdays and Tuesdays in honour of Hanuman and give special offerings to him. In times of trouble, it is a common faith among Hindus to chant the name of Hanuman or sing his hymn Hanuman Chalisa and proclaim Bajrangbali Ki Jai (victory to thy thunderbolt strength). Once every year — on the full-moon day of Chaitra (April) at sunrise — Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman. Hanuman temples are among the most common public shrines found in India.

The Power of Devotion

The character of Hanuman teaches us of the unlimited power that lies unused within each one of us. Hanuman directed all his energies towards the worship of Lord Ram, and his undying devotion made him such that he became free from all physical fatigue. And Hanuman's only desire was to serve Ram. Hanuman perfectly exemplifies DasyaBhava devotion — one of the nine types of devotions — that bond the master and the servant. His greatness lies in his complete merger with his Lord, which also formed the base of his genial qualities.

Temples of Shri Maruti established by Samarth Ramdas Swami

The deity Maruti (also known as Hanuman) is the God of strength, intelligence and knowledge.Samarth Ramdas Swami, a great devotee of Shri Ram and Hanuman, was himself believed to be a rebirth of Hanuman. After a twelve year ascetic penance, Samarth Ramdas Swami travelled across the entire country. This enabled him to understand the ethos of the society then. After his countrywide traversal, he decided to use his knowledge, experience and acquired celestial powers to influence the minds of the public towards devotion of Shri Ram, and to teach them to strive for the strength that Maruti, Shri Ram’s devotee, had and awaken the public accordingly. While traversing the country, he established a temple of Shri Maruti in innumerable villages. Among these, eleven temples of Shri Maruti have a special significance since these eleven temples are believed to be Jagrut . All these eleven temples are located on the banks of the River Krishna. Samarth Ramdas awakened the desire for courage and strength in the people by setting them on the path of devotion towards Maruti.

It is interesting to note that all the eleven Jagrut Maruti temples are situated in the sovereignty of ShahajiRaje Bhosale. An Abhanga written by VenuSwami, a disciple of SamarthRamdas mentions all the eleven Jagrut Maruti. The Abhanga is as follows:

Chafalamaji don, Umbrejesi Aik |
Paragavi dekh chautha to aisa ||
Panchva masuri, Shahapuri sahava |
Jan to Satva Shiralyat ||
Shinganvadi Athava, Manapadale Navva |
Dahava Janava Majgavi||
Bahyat akrava yeneriti gava ||
Sarva Manortha purvil |
Veni mhane Swami Samarthe Ramdas |
Kirti Gaganat na samave ||

(Two at Chafal, one at Umbraj |
See the fourth at Pargaon ||
Fifth at Masuri, Sixth at Shahapur |
Know that the seventh is at Shirale ||
Eight at Shinganvadi, ninth at Manapadale |
Know that the tenth is at Majgaon ||
The eleventh at Bahe ||
Will satisfy all your desires ||
Veni says Swami Samarth Ramdas’s |
Fame is such that even the sky would not be able to contain it ||

List of the eleven important Maruti temples –

Place	Number of temples	Date of installation
Shahapur	1	1644
Masur	1	1645
Chafal	2	1648
Shinganvadi	1	1649
Umbraj	1	1649
Majgaon	1	1649
Bahe Borgaon	1	1651
Manapadale	1	1651
Pargaon	1	1651
Shirale	1	1654

All of these temples are in the region of Sangli and Satara districts.

1. ShriKshetra (Holy place) Shahapur

The limestone Maruti of Shahapur is the first Maruti among the eleven Jagrut Maruti established by Samarth Ramdas. There is a difference of opinion among researchers about the exact dates of establishing the eleven Marutis, but everyone agrees on the Shahapur Maruti being the first of these eleven Marutis.

The idol of Maruti here is 6 feet tall and the countenance is aggressive. The idol is depicted wearing a cap with a furry ball. The temple and the idol face west. There are three courtyards in the temple. The Shahapurkar Kulkarni family have the honour of maintaining the temple. Every year, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with great pomp and splendour. Along with the main idol, there is a small brass idol of Maruti specially used for celebrations. This idol is taken to Chafal for the RamNavami celebration held there every year.

There is a road breaking off towards Shahapur about 10 km from Karhad on the Karhad – Masur road.

2. ShriKshetra Masur

The Maharudra Maruti of Masur is one of the important Maruti among the eleven Maruti established by Samarth Ramdas. This idol too is made of limestone. The idol is west facing and is about 5 feet tall. Among the eleven Maruti, this Maruti is the most pleasing and attractive. A crown, pearl and gold necklaces, Janva (a sacred thread worn by Brahmin men), borderedlangot (loin cloth), the fingers have been painted on the idol in great detail. There is a painting of Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the left side of the idol, whereas on the right is one ofSamarth Ramdas. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated here on a large scale.

Every year, RamNavami was celebrated here ever since the installation of the Maruti idol.Samarth Ramdas met his favorite disciple Kalyan during this celebration one year, who was later recognised as KalyanSwami.

There is a 13 x 13 feet square court hall in the temple which has eight stone pillars. The temple has been restored recently by the Shri Ramdas Swami organization. The
Narayan Maharaj Math is close by.

Masur is just 4 – 5 km from ShriKshetra Shahapur. The Masur railway station is on the Pune – Miraj rail route.

3. The two Maruti of Chafal

Chafal and SajjanGad are two important locations in the life of Samarth Ramdas. SamarthRamdas had a vision of Shri Ram who guided him towards an idol of himself that was immersed in the river bed at Angapur. Samarth Ramdas dove in deep and emerged with the idol held high over his head. He established this idol at Chafal which was close by. The interesting story further tells of how the people of Angapur objected to the idol being taken away by SamarthRamdas since it was found near their village. Since they obstructed his path towards Chafal,Samarth set the idol down right there in the path and asked the people congregated here to take it. But to everyone’s utter surprise, even joint efforts by several people to lift the idol failed. The people were then convinced of Samarth’s supernatural powers and allowed him to take away the idol.

When Shri Ram had appeared in a vision before him, at the same time, he also got a vision of Shri Maruti, who asked him to establish his idol in front of Shri Ram’s. Accordingly, two Maruti idols were installed, one with folded hands in the temple called the DasMaruti, and one behind the temple called PratapMaruti. The idol of Ram was installed in 1647, and the two Maruti idols were installed in 1648. It is said that Shivaji Maharaj and Samarth Ramdas met in the premises of the Chafal temple.

a. DasMaruti

This is the only idol among the eleven with both hands folded in veneration towards Shri Ram. The idol is 6 feet tall and has an expression of humility. The eyes are directed at the feet of the Shri Ram idol which is directly facing this idol. The idol is extremely artistic.

The temple is exquisite and the premises have a pleasant atmosphere. This temple built bySamarth Ramdas more than 360 years back is in excellent condition till date. The temple is so strong that not a single crack emerged due to the earthquake that happened near about in 1967 here. The temple and idol that were built by Samartha are so complete that not a single modification has been made to either in all these years. This is indeed quite unique.

b. PratapMaruti

This is another important Maruti among the eleven, and the second in Chafal. This idol is recognised by three names viz. BhimMaruti, PratapMaruti, or VeerMaruti. The idol is almost 8 feet tall. This idol is as per the description given in the Maruti Stotra (holy hymn to Maruti). The idol is bedecked with a crown and jewellery in his ears, a gold waist band which has small bells attached to it. The idol is extremely dazzling. This is known as a Jagrut temple, where this deity answers the faithful prayers of devotees and vanquishes the evil.

When Samarth Ramdas resided in this Math, he was known to spend some time of solitude near this idol. It is believed by the devotees here that anything that ails the Chafal village is resolved by praying to this idol. A MahaRudraBhishek (holy bath) is conducted on the idol everyShravan, the holiest of the Hindu months.

There are excellent bus services to reach this temple in Chafal, as well as good lodging and boarding in the temple premises for the devotees who arrive here.

4. ShriKshetra ShinganVadi

The ShinganVadi hill top is a mere half to one km from Chafal towards the north east. SamarthRamdas would retire in solitude in the cave atop this hill for meditation. Towards this purpose, he installed an idol of Maruti, his deity, here in the year 1649. Some researchers opine that the historical meeting between Samarth Ramdas and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took place under the huge tree near the Math here.

The Maruti at Shinganvadi is also called by the names Khadicha Maruti and BalMaruti. The 3.5 feet tall idol is installed in an inner sanctum which is 6 feet wide by 6 feet deep. The idol is north facing and has a flag in the left hand and the right hand is raised. The natural surroundings in the vicinity of this temple are a sight for sore eyes and have a holy atmosphere.

The temple is built at a height and is painted in red colour. The temple can be seen from anywhere in Chafal. Since this temple so close to Chafal, people even call it the third Maruti of Chafal.

Puja (religious ritual of paying obeisance to the deity) is offered to this Maruti by the Pujari of Chafal’s Shri Ram temple. Devotees make it a point to include paying obeisance to this Maruti after paying obeisance to the Shri Ram and the two Maruti idols in Chafal.

5. ShriKshetra Umbraj

Umbraj is located 4 km from Masur towards its east. This Maruti is also called BalMaruti among th e eleven Maruti established by Samarth Ramdas, because this idol appears young in age as compared to the other Maruti. The idol is approximately 6 feet tall and is very attractive. The idol is made from a mixture of limestone, sand and Taag (a kind of hemp derived from Sun-plant). The eyes of the idol are made of silver. This Maruti is called Umbrajcha Maruti (Maruti of Umbraj) or Mathatil Maruti (Maruti in a Math). The temple is north facing and does not have a dome. This temple was built in 1649.

As per the tome VishramDham, after installing the Maruti idol here, Samarth Ramdas conductedKirtan here for thirteen consecutive days. It is also believed by some that Samarth Ramdas would walk to Umbraj fro Chafal for his bath, and that is why he installed a Maruti idol here. The River Krishna flows close to the temple. The atmosphere around the temple is extremely pleasant and holy. Devotees throng here to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti. A Sampradayik Bhiksha(public ) programme is conducted here one day before Hanuman Jayanti.

This place is close to Masur.

6. ShriKshetra Majgaon

Majgaon is around 2 km from Chafal. The idol here is 5 feet tall and is south facing. The idol faces the Shri Ram idol of Chafal.

It is said about the installation of this idol that the villagers would consider a stone on the boundary wall of the village as Maruti. The villagers desired Samarth Ramdas to install a Maruti idol in their village. Accordingly Samarth himself sculpted that stone into a beautiful Maruti idol. He got a temple built here and installed that idol in the year 1649.

The chief temple is 8 feet wide x 8 feet deep and has a sloping tiled roof. The maintenance of this temple is handled by the Shri Ram temple organization of Chafal. It is said that the current temple was built by Shridhar Swami.

There isn’t any lodging facility near this temple. But the court hall in front of the temple can accommodate people for the night.

7. ShriKhetra Bahe- Borgaon

The village Bahe is located near Borgaon on the banks of the River Krishna. This is place is therefore called Bahe – Borgaon. This temple too is a Jagrut place. The idol here is majestic and wears a crown. There is an ancient island named RamLinga in the river bed near by. There is a Ram temple on this island. Samarth Ramdas installed the Maruti idol here in 1651 behind the Ram temple. The temple is in an extremely pleasant and salubrious location.

It is said that Ram and Laxman rested briefly in the village Bahe on their way back from slaying Ravan. It is also said that Samarth Ramdas was inspired to write the BhimRoopi Stotra filled with devotion while he was contemplating on this Maruti. Among all the eleven Maruti installed by Samarth, this Maruti is located at the most beautiful location. Along with the Maruti temple, there are many small islands and Samadhi located here. The Macchindra fort is located close by. The tome Krishan-Mahatma refers to this place as BahuKshetra (place of strength).

8. ShriKshetra Manapadale

This Maruti temple, one among the eleven Maruti established by Samarth, is located on the banks of the River Krishna. The temple has a sloping tiled roof. The inner sanctum of the temple is 7 feet wide x 6 feet deep and there is a large court hall in front which is 26 x 16 sq ft. The idol is very pleasant. This place is considered Jagrut. The idol is north facing. The idol is 5 feet tall and there is a leaning staff – used by ascetics - near the idol.

Jyotiba’s hill and Panhalgarh are very close from this place. 

9. ShriKshetra Pargaon

He village Pargaon is just 5 km from the Manapadale temple. Among the eleven Marutis, this Maruti is recognised by its location as in Pargaoncha Maruti. This Maruti has been carved into a flat stone. This Maruti has been depicted as if running towards the left, and hair has been tied into a knot. This is the smallest among all the eleven Maruti established by Samarth Ramdas, at a mere 1.5 feet.

The main dome of this temple is 8 feet in diameter. A new court hall has been recently built. This Maruti is considered the last among the eleven Maruti.

Pargaon is very close to Panhala. It is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and SamarthRamdas would visit Pargaon for political discussions.

Jyotiba’s hill and Panhalgarh are very close from this place. 

10.Kshetra Shirale

This is an important Maruti among the eleven Maruti established by Samarth. This Maruti is recognised as extremely Jagrut - one who rushes to the entreaty of a devotee and fulfils the devotee’s desire. The temple and idol here are north facing. This Maruti is called VeerMaruti(Maruti of courage). The idol here is approximately 7 feet tall and is well proportioned and artful. The rays of the sun fall on the idol during sunrise and sunset through the screened ducts above the idol. This phenomenon is breathtaking indeed.

There is a spacious court hall in front of the temple. Devotees consider this temple as the most beautiful among the eleven Maruti temples. After Samarth Ramdas installed the idol, his disciple JayramSwami built the sloping tiled roofed temple. In later years, a devotee renovated the temple by building the current stone temple.

The village Shirale is famous for NagPanchami (day on which the cobra-Nag- is venerated)celebrations and the Garude (snake charmers) with their live cobra shows. The temple is centrally located in the village and very close to the bus depot in the village. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with great pomp and devotion here.