Shri Nageshwar Mahadev Mandir, Andarsul, Yevla, Nashik

Andarsul in Yeola taluka, sanctified by the ascetic abode of Rashtrasant Janardan Swami (Maungiri) and the presence of Naga Baba, is home to the ancient Nageshwar Mahadev Temple. It is said that the current Shivling present in this temple was consecrated by Sage Agastya. Located on the banks of the Kolganga River, there are two caves within the temple courtyard. In these caves, Janardan Swami, along with many other sages, performed austerities for years.

Janardan Swami was born on September 24, 1914, in the small village of Tapargaon in Kannad taluka of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district (Aurangabad). Born into a farmer’s family, Janardan Swami possessed qualities of devotion towards God, love for humanity, altruism, and forgiveness since childhood. At a young age, he chose the path of spiritual awakening. Although educated only up to the second grade, Janardan Swami had memorized many scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata. He would explain the meaning of the Vedas to the common people by elucidating the greatness of spirituality in simple, rural language.

He performed austerities for 14 years at the Nageshwar Mahadev Temple in Andarsul. During this time, the great saint Naga Baba resided in this temple. For some time, Janardan Swami had the privilege of his company. After days of dedicated service by Janardan Swami, Naga Baba bestowed upon him the Vibhuti mantra and initiated him with the name Maungiri. It is said that one day, while performing austerities near the Nageshwar Mahadev Temple, suddenly at the hour of Brahma Muhurta, a divine light began to emanate from the Shivling. At that moment, Lord Mahadev Himself appeared and gave darshan to Janardan Swami. Following this divine vision of Shiva, devotees began visiting the Nageshwar Temple in large numbers.

The courtyard of the Nageshwar Temple, situated on the banks of the Kolganga River, is spacious. The beauty of the temple is enhanced by the development of a beautiful garden around it. Located at a slight elevation from the river, the entire complex is enclosed by a boundary wall and paved with paver blocks all around. The temple acquired its current form after renovation in 2018 by Mahamandaleshwar Swami Parmanandgiri Maharaj. Adjacent to the Nageshwar Temple is the thatched hut (parnakuti) of Janardan Swami. Built entirely using mud and wood, and sanctified by the presence of Rashtrasant Janardan Swami, this hut can be visited by devotees. Additionally, there is the Samadhi temple of Janardan Swami here. In this courtyard, there are temples dedicated to Lord Vitthal and Sri Dattatreya. Although these temples appear conventional, their unique feature is that paths leading down into the caves run through the plinths of both these temples. Descending a few steps from there leads into the cave. It is said that Janardan Swami and other sages performed austerities there for many years.

The main temple structure consists of a assembly hall (sabhamandap) and a sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha). Nandi is seated on a raised platform in the assembly hall, and the Shivalinga of Mahadev is in the sanctum. This Shivalinga is covered with a brass casing. Regarding this sacred site, it is said that no matter how severe the drought, there is never a water shortage here. Even when the water in the wells of surrounding villages hits rock bottom, the well within this temple complex always has water.

Recognized as a ‘B’ grade pilgrimage site by the State Government, festivals such as Mahashivratri, Datta Jayanti, Navratri, and Guru Purnima are celebrated with great enthusiasm at this temple. A grand fair (yatra) is held here on Mahashivratri. Along with various religious programs, a blood donation camp is also organized during this time. Daily aarti takes place at the temple at 5 in the morning and 7 in the evening. Rudrabhishek is performed every Monday from 8 to 10 in the evening. Anushhtan is observed here on Datta Jayanti. A pilgrim guest house (bhaktiniwas) facility has been made available for devotees by the temple trust.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery