Prasanna Shree Ekmukhi Dutt Mandir Sunday Karanja, Panchavati, Nashik, t. Nashik

Located on the western bank of the Godavari River at Ravivar Karanja in Nashik, the famous Ekmukhi Datta Temple is known as ‘Prati Gangapur’ (replica of Gangapur). This temple is believed to be approximately 350 years old. The temple is situated close to the Ahilyadevi Holkar Bridge and the Yashwant Maharaj Mamledar Samadhi. It is a divine and living shrine (*Jagrut Devasthan*), and devotees firmly believe that worshiping Ekmukhi Datta wards off any afflictions or evil influences.

According to temple legend, Sadguru Waman Sakharam Barve Maharaj of Nashik was an ardent devotee of Lord Dattatreya. After years of intense penance, Shri Datta appeared in a vision in his dream and instructed him, “I am present in the riverbed of the Godavari in the form of a single-faced, six-armed (*Ekmukhi Shadbhuja*) deity. Consecrate Me.” The very next day during *Brahma Muhurta*, Barve Maharaj woke up and dived into the Godavari River at the exact spot revealed in his dream. There, at the riverbed, he found a sand idol of Lord Datta. He brought the idol home and built a temple adjacent to his residence—where the temple stands today—and ritually consecrated (*Prana Pratishtha*) the deity. After serving the Lord for many years, Sadguru Barve Maharaj eventually took *Samadhi* adjacent to the temple. Ancient records mention that many saints and revered personalities of the Datta Sampradaya have visited this temple for *Darshan*. It is also recorded that Sadguru Ramchandra Maharaj Barve renovated this temple 200 years ago.
As one climbs the steps from Goda Ghat to enter the temple, an arched entrance welcomes visitors. Sculpted figures of guards adorn both sides of this archway. The Ekmukhi Datta Temple is a compact structure with mud and earth construction, comprising a sanctum sanctorum (*Garbhagriha*) and an assembly hall (*Sabhamandap*). The idol of Ekmukhi Dattatreya in the sanctum sanctorum has six arms holding a lotus, trident (*Trishul*), conch (*Shankha*), discus (*Chakra*), and Rudraksha rosaries. Beside the idol of Lord Datta are the idols of Goddess Anusuya and Goddess Mahalaxmi. The sanctum features intricate silver artwork, and the temple is adorned with a modest spire (*Kalas*).

Situated on an elevation along the banks of the Godavari, the temple complex offers a sweeping view of the entire Panchavati area. Sacred Audumbar trees stand adjacent to the temple. There are also small shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Rama, Lord Maruti (Hanuman), Lord Kaal Bhairav, and Goddess Saptashrungi Mata. Additionally, several *Samadhis* of holy saints are located here. Guru Pratipada is celebrated here every year with great fervor, during which the temple premises are adorned with beautiful illuminations. Thousands of devotees attend the *Palkhi* (palanquin) procession organized on this day. On the occasion of Datta Jayanti, various ten-day religious and cultural programs are conducted, including *Laghurudrabhisheka*, *Guru Charitra Parayan*, *Shri Datta Yaag* for universal welfare, *Shri Datta Yaag Purnahuti*, *Shri Satyadatta Mahapuja*, and *Gopalkala*.

Furthermore, during festivals like Navratri and Diwali, various religious observances such as *Bhajans*, scriptural recitations (*Parayans*), and spiritual weeks (*Saptah*) are organized. *Aarti* is performed daily in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Additionally, recitations of the *Guru Charitra* take place regularly. Free meals (*Annadan*) are served every afternoon to devotees coming for *Darshan*. Alongside spiritual activities, social initiatives such as blood donation camps and feeding the underprivileged are conducted during Datta Jayanti. Currently, Mathadhipati Mayuresh Barve oversees the affairs of this temple. A large number of devotees visit the temple every day for *Darshan* and to participate in the *Guru Charitra Parayan*.

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