Ancient Wangeshwar Mahadev Temple Wangargaon, Telhara, Akola

The Vangeshwar Mahadev Temple is situated at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three rivers: Purna, Vidrupa, and Gautama. Devotees believe that the Shivling in this approximately two-hundred-fifty-year-old temple is ‘Jagrut’ (spiritually awakened). It is believed that by bathing at this Triveni Sangam and seeking the blessings of Mahadev, all wishes are fulfilled. Taking a holy dip and offering prayers at this confluence on Somvati Amavasya holds special religious significance. It is said that Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon used to visit this temple, nestled in a scenic environment, to perform meditation.

In Hindu tradition, rivers are revered as deities. The confluence of rivers is considered extremely sacred. There is a religious belief that bathing at a Triveni Sangam—a place where three rivers meet—washes away all sins and grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death, leading to Moksha. Among all Triveni Sangams, the one at Prayagraj is considered the most liberating. The Vangeshwar Mahadev Temple is also located at a Triveni Sangam, making it an important pilgrimage site. Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon also used to bathe at this Triveni Sangam and offer prayers to Vangeshwar Mahadev. It is said that the Shivling in this temple, which is a place of faith for countless devotees in Vidarbha, fulfills all desires.

Legend has it that the village of Vangargaon derives its name from Vangeshwar Mahadev. There is no concrete information available regarding when this ancient temple was established. However, it is said that this Shiv temple has existed here for two hundred and fifty years. The temple underwent renovation in nineteen sixty-nine, after which it attained its current form. The temple is located about one kilometer away from the village temple arch.

The atmosphere at the Triveni Sangam is serene. One enters the courtyard through the entrance of the temple, which is situated on an elevation reached by climbing about twenty-five steps. The entrance features railings on both sides and five spires on top. The Vangeshwar Mahadev Temple stands in the center of the paver-block courtyard. The temple structure consists of a Sabhamandap (assembly hall) and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). An image of Gajanan Maharaj is placed in a niche within the enclosed assembly hall. In the center of the sanctum, a north-facing Shivling is enshrined within a large Shalunka, with a serpent hood canopying it. The Shivling is covered with a metal casing. A Nandi is seated to the east of the Pindi. The niches in the sanctum also house idols of Mother Parvati and Lord Ganesha. The sanctum has an additional entrance at the rear. The sanctum of this simply constructed temple is topped by a large dome-shaped Shikhara. Stairs are provided at the back of the temple to access the Shikhara.

In the pavilion within the temple courtyard, rituals for Kalsarpa Yoga and Pitru Dosh Shanti are performed. Narayan Nagbali Puja is also conducted here. The temple premises include a small temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani and a Yajna Kund. The area is adorned with many trees, including a banyan tree. For the convenience of devotees, there is a Bhakti Niwas with twenty rooms and a large dining hall. Hundreds of cows are cared for in the Goshala here.

Devotees believe that Mahadev here never sends anyone back empty-handed. Because of this, pilgrims from across Vidarbha and various parts of the state visit this temple to seek Mahadev’s blessings. Every Monday during the holy month of Shravan, many devotees perform Abhishekam on the Shivling. During the fair held on the occasion of Mahashivratri, countless devotees chant ‘Har Har Mahadev’ and offer Bel leaves and perform Abhishekam on the Shivling. Various religious programs are organized for this festival, and Mahaprasad is distributed to the devotees. Hundreds of devotees also visit for darshan during eclipses.

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