Historic Gorakshnath Mandir, Dhamapur (Dhamori), Kopargaon, Ahilyanagar

The Gorakshanath Temple premises in Dhamori, located in the Kopargaon taluka, is renowned as the birthplace and place of penance (Tapobhumi) of Adabanginath (Maniknath). It is said that after Adabanginath performed penance here for twelve years, Gorakshanath initiated him into the Nath Sampradaya and took him along for further spiritual work. A unique feature of this place is the colossal Goraksh Tamarind tree standing in front of the Gorakshanath Temple. This ancient tree has nine massive branches, which is why it is also known as the ‘Tamarind of the Navnath’. According to Ayurveda, this tree is considered a ‘panacea for many diseases’.


The legend of this place states that in ancient times, a farmer named Manik was working in his field when Gorakshanath arrived there. He asked Manik for something to eat. Manik immediately offered him the food and water he had brought for himself. Pleased by Manik’s generosity in sharing his own meal, Gorakshanath told him to ask for a boon. Manik replied, “I am the one who gave you my food, what boon could you possibly give me? If your hunger is satisfied, please leave now.” To this, Gorakshanath replied, “If you do not want a boon from me, then you grant me a boon.” Manik agreed. Gorakshanath then told him, “Do not do anything that your desire prompts you to do.” Manik thought this was simple enough and agreed.

After sunset, Gorakshanath departed. As evening fell, Manik unyoked his oxen and lifted the plow onto his head. Just as the thought of heading home crossed his mind, he remembered the vow he had given to Gorakshanath. He stood still, rooted to the spot, with the plow still on his head. Having remained in the same position for twelve years, Manik’s body had lost all its strength.

One day, Gorakshanath arrived here along with his Guru, Machindranath, and Chauranginath. Gorakshanath told Machindranath about Manik, who had remained true to his word. Machindranath and Chauranginath sat on a seat under the Goraksh Tamarind tree. Machindranath said, “You are truly a great ascetic. It is my desire to accept someone like you as my disciple and grant you grace.” Manik characteristically replied, “Why should I be your Guru? Instead, you become my Guru.” Gorakshanath then leaned toward Manik’s ear and whispered the mantra; upon hearing it, Manik attained enlightenment. As the mantra entered his ears, he became as learned as Brihaspati (the Guru of the Gods). Gorakshanath took Manik by the hand, brought him under the tamarind tree, and told Machindranath, “He is ‘Adabang’ (unyielding), so he shall be known as ‘Adabanginath’.” After initiating Adabanginath into the Nath Sampradaya under this tree, Gorakshanath took him along on his destined journey.

The premises include a small Gorakshanath Temple, the temple of Adabanginath, and the massive tamarind tree where he received his initiation. The Gorakshanath Temple, built on a high plinth, consists of a Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The palanquin of the Nath is kept in the Sabha Mandap, and during festivals, a grand procession of the Navnath is carried out with music. The Garbhagriha houses the idols of the nine Naths. There is a circumambulation path (Pradakshina Marg) around the temple. Women are not permitted to enter this temple.

Opposite the Gorakshanath Temple, under the Goraksh Tamarind tree, is the temple of Adabanginath. This is the very spot where Adabanginath performed his penance and where he was initiated by Gorakshanath. A unique feature of this tamarind tree is that its massive trunk has enough space for four people to sit inside. There is also a tunnel-like passage through the trunk from east to west.

Legend has it that in the past, utensils for weddings or religious functions could be obtained from this tunnel. Once the work was finished, if the utensils were left near the tunnel, they would disappear inside. This tree is deciduous, but it is said that among its nine branches, the leaves of the ninth branch do not fall until the leaves of the other eight have shed and new sprouts have appeared. It is believed that the leaves, fruits, and bark of this tree are medicinal and cure many diseases. It is considered a wonder that no new saplings grow from the seeds or branches of this tree (unlike other Goraksh Tamarind trees elsewhere, whose seeds produce new saplings).

This site, sanctified by the touch of the feet of Shri Machindranath, Gorakshanath, and Chauranginath, and being the birthplace and place of penance of Adabanginath, is held in special reverence in the Nath Sampradaya. The ‘Dharmabij Utsav’ is celebrated here on Magh Shuddha Dwitiya. (This date is significant in the Nath Panth as it is the day Gorakshanath granted grace and initiation to Dharmanath.) Thousands of Nath followers and devotees participate in the festival on this day.

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