Divine Bhimashankar Mahadev Temple Khanapur, Vashi, Dharashiv

Vashi is a small taluka in Dharashiv district, comprising merely ५४ revenue villages. It is believed that this land has been sanctified by the touch of Shri Rama’s lotus feet. Many temples in this region date back to prehistoric times, and popular legends connect them directly to the Ramayana era. Although the deities are ancient, these temples are said to belong to the Yadava or Chalukya periods. The dry masonry construction of the temples, the intricate carvings on the stones, and the architecture attract scholars from various lands. Among such ancient temples, the Bhimashankar Mahadev Temple is located in Khanapur village in this taluka.

This temple, built of stone in the Hemadpanti architectural style, is said to be about ७०० to ८०० years old. However, scholars suggest that the design of the pillars within the temple indicates it might be ४०० to ५०० years old. Nevertheless, no definitive proof is available regarding this. The legend of this temple recounts that after Ravana abducted Sita, as Shri Rama wandered through forests in search of Sita, Mother Parvati attempted to test Shri Rama by assuming Sita’s form. However, Shri Rama immediately recognized Mother Parvati, who then, feeling abashed, returned to Lord Mahadev, who was meditating at this spot, and settled in the form of a golden stone in the nearby pond. At that time, Lord Mahadev was seated here in meditation as Bhimashankar. Hence, this Shiva Lingam is known as Bhimashankar.

The temple is situated on a hill adorned with natural beauty near the village. The temple premises are rich with abundant trees. In front of the temple, there is a platform built of carved stone, upon which stands an ancient circular Deepmala (lamp tower). In front of the Deepmala are a Tulasi Vrindavan, an idol of Nandi, and Virgal (hero stones). The temple’s structure comprises a Sabhamandapa (assembly hall), Antarala (vestibule), and Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The front walls of the Sabhamandapa feature Vyala sculptures. The enclosed Sabhamandapa has a railing at the front, with an entrance in the center. As the Sabhamandapa is elevated above the courtyard, there are three steps leading up to the entrance. The Mandaraka (door sill) features a Chandrashila (moonstone). Inside the Sabhamandapa, there are four rows, each with four intricately carved pillars. The outer pillars are integrated into the railing and walls. All pillars stand on square pillar bases, and their shafts are in various geometric shapes such as squares, hexagons, octagons, and circles. At the top of the pillars are Kani (corbels) and Hastas (brackets). The ceiling within each set of four pillars is designed as a square within a square. The left and right walls of the Sabhamandapa each contain three Devakoshthakas (niches for deities). The pillars and walls in the Sabhamandapa have been coated with oil paint, which has somewhat faded the carvings.

In the Sabhamandapa, in front of the Antarala’s entrance, there is a black stone idol of Nandi on a platform. On the left and right sides of the Sabhamandapa, adjacent to the front wall of the Antarala, there are platforms. On the left platform are stone Padukas (footprints), and on the right platform are a Shiva Lingam and ancient sculptures. Further ahead is the entrance to the Antarala. The Antarala has Devakoshthakas on its left and right sides, and beyond it is the Garbhagriha. In the center of the Garbhagriha floor is a self-manifested Shiva Lingam. An Abhishek Patra (vessel for ritual bathing) holding a stream of water is suspended from the ceiling above it.

Within the temple courtyard, there are small shrines dedicated to local deities and a newly constructed building for auspicious events (Mangal Karyalaya). Marriage ceremonies are performed here. A small stream flows adjacent to the courtyard. It is said that Mother Parvati resides at the bottom of this stream in the form of a golden rock. Mahashivaratri is the main annual festival celebrated with great enthusiasm at the temple. The day begins with a Laghurudra Abhishek for the deity. During this time, programs such as Bhajan (devotional singing), Kirtan (devotional discourse), and Jagaran (all-night vigil) are organized. Thousands of devotees from the surrounding areas come for Darshan (sacred viewing) of the deity. During the month of Shravana, devotees throng here for Darshan.

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