Historic Khanderaav Mandir Chandanapuree, Maalegaav, Naasik

This Khanderao Temple is situated in the village of Chandanpuri in the holy land of Nashik, which is the village of Banai, the second wife of Khandoba Maharaja. While Jejuri is considered the primary seat of Khandoba in Maharashtra, Chandanpuri holds the significance of being the second most important site. This place is also known as ‘Prati-Jejuri’ (the second Jejuri).

The legend associated with this temple states that, captivated by Banai’s beauty, Khandoba took the form of an 80-year-old shepherd and served as a herder at Banai’s home, the Dhangarwada, for 12 years. One day, this shepherd (Khandoba) struck and killed nine lakh sheep belonging to Banai against a rock by the river. Seeing this, Banai immediately went to her parents. Thereafter, Banai’s father asked Khandoba, “Why did you do this?” Khandoba replied, “I will bring all these sheep back to life, but you must marry Banai to me.” Banai’s father replied, “I will give you my daughter only if you bring the sheep back to life.” Khandoba then showered Bhandara (turmeric powder) on all the sheep, and they came back to life. Narad Muni himself recited the Mangalashtakas (wedding hymns). A coarse woollen blanket (Ghongade) was used as the Antarpat (wedding curtain), and sheep droppings were showered as Akshata (sacred rice) upon the deity. Thirty-three crore gods attended this wedding ceremony. At this time, it rained pearls. Afterwards, Khanderao took Banai to Jejuri.

Chandanpuri in Malegaon taluka is located near the Nashik-Malegaon highway. Outside the temple, there are shops selling Khandoba’s divti (torch), prasad, and worship materials. The entrance of the Khanderao temple resembles a fort. The temple has a stone perimeter wall with gates on the east and west sides. The eastern gate is the main entrance. Outside this gate are two deepmalas (lamp towers). Directly in front of the temple is the Nandi Mandap. This east-facing temple is structured with a Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The entrance to the Sabha Mandap features a Ganesh-patti (carving of Lord Ganesha). The hall of the temple is dome-shaped, where idols of various deities can be seen. Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar renovated this temple.

The Garbhagriha of the temple is small, allowing only one or two devotees to enter at a time. Inside the sanctum are marble idols of Khandoba, Mhalasa, and Banai. It is said that these idols were installed recently. The original idols were made of black stone; they were replaced after they became damaged. There is a Shivalinga in front of these idols. Upon exiting the temple, one can see the horse, which is Khandoba’s vehicle. Outside the temple, there is a small shrine dedicated to Agya Vetal.

A fair is held here on Chaitra Shuddha Purnima (the significance of worship on this day is believed to be liberation from past sins and the fulfillment of all desires). During this time, devotees chant “Yelkot, Yelkot Jai Malhar” while having darshan of Khandoba. Vows are fulfilled by showering Bhandara. Bel leaves and Davana are offered to Khandoba, along with a naivedya of Bharit and Rodga (traditional bread). It is believed that Khandoba is very fond of raw green onions.

To the west of Chandanpuri village, on a small hillock, is a small temple of Banai. A fair is held here on Paush Purnima (Paush is the month of the Sun, and Purnima is the lunar day; thus, worshipping both on this day is possible. This day is considered sacred as it is believed that this worship fulfills inner desires and resolves future troubles). Newlywed couples perform Jagran and Gondhal here to worship the Goddess. It is a tradition to perform Jagran in the temple on occasions like weddings and thread ceremonies.

It is said that traces of Khandoba Maharaja’s presence can be found in the bed of the Girna River. About two to three minutes’ walk to the north from the Khandoba temple in Chandanpuri, there is a peg (khunta). There is also a Shivalinga there. It is believed that Khandoba Maharaja used to tie his horse to this peg. Therefore, the impressions seen in the river rocks today are believed to be the hoofprints of Khandoba’s horse.

A Darshan Mandap has been constructed to ensure that devotees coming for darshan can do so with ease. Every Sunday, there is a crowd of devotees here for Khandoba’s darshan. Khandoba’s Aarti is performed at 7:00 AM and 7:30 PM.

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