Prasanna Shree Khandoba Temple Nagpur City, Ji. Nagpur

Lord Khandoba is a revered deity for devotees from various castes and regions across the country, including Maharashtra. The only famous Khandoba temple in Nagpur district is situated in the heart of Nagpur city; this 400-year-old shrine holds a special place in the hearts of the devotees. The Khandoba marriage ceremony held here on Paush Purnima is the main festival, in which thousands of devotees participate. It is the firm belief of the devotees visiting this shrine that the deity is ‘Jagrut’ (awakened) and that Lord Khandoba grants their prayers.

Located on Subhash Marg opposite Cotton Market in Nagpur, records indicate that this Khandoba temple was built during the reign of Raghujiraje Bhonsle of Nagpur. Khandoba is considered a deity of the warrior (Kshatriya) spirit. While devotees from many castes worship him, people from the Maratha, Dhangar, and Ramoshi communities visit in large numbers for his darshan. As Banai was raised by a Dhangar, he is considered the presiding deity of the Dhangar community. Khandoba is also known as Malhari Martand. It is believed that Khandoba is an avatar of Lord Mahadev, who took this form to slay the demons Mani and Malla.

The Khandoba temple faces east, with arched entrances to the temple premises from the east and north. There are two ‘Deepmalas’ (lamp towers) on the eastern side. In the sanctum sanctorum in the center of the temple, there is an ancient idol of Khandoba, with idols of Khandoba and Mhalasa on either side. The idol of Khandoba is ‘Chaturbhuj’ (four-armed), holding a sword, trident, damaru, and a drinking vessel. In front of these idols is a Shivling. Additionally, there are sculptures of Nandi, a horse, and a dog near the idols. Khandoba’s first wife is Mhalasa and his second wife is Banai; there is a separate temple for Banai near the northern entrance of the temple.

Two major festivals are celebrated in this temple: Champa Shashthi in the month of Margashirsha and the Khandoba marriage ceremony on Paush Purnima. Among these, the Khandoba marriage ceremony celebrated here is considered one of the major festivals in Nagpur. At that time, thousands of devotees from Vidarbha, as well as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, come for Khandoba’s darshan. This tradition has been followed for over 300 years, and ‘Mahaprasad’ is offered to all the devotees who arrive during this time. During the marriage procession, devotees shower ‘Bhandara’ (turmeric powder) and dry coconut while chanting, “Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar… Sadanandacha Yelkot…”. During this festival period, hundreds of shops selling worship materials and offerings are set up in the temple premises.

To fulfill their vows, devotees offer ‘Vangyache Bharit’ (roasted eggplant mash) and ‘Rodga’ (a type of bread) to Lord Khandoba. Additionally, turmeric powder and dry coconut are offered as ‘Naivedya’ and then distributed as Prasad. The festival at the Khandoba shrine is celebrated for 6 days from Margashirsha Shuddha Pratipada to Shuddha Shashthi (Champa Shashthi). Khandoba’s marriage to Mhalasa took place on Paush Purnima, and his marriage to Banai took place on Shravan Purnima. Festivals are celebrated here on all these days. Sunday is considered the day of Khandoba; therefore, special prayers are held on this day, attracting a large number of devotees.

This shrine has been included in the state government’s ‘C’ grade list of pilgrimage sites. (A pilgrimage site that receives between one lakh and four lakh devotees annually is granted ‘C’ grade status by the state government.)

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