Shri Kulaswamy Khanderai, Vadge, Junnar, Pune

Nestled in the nature-rich village of Vadaj, close to Junnar in Pune district, stands a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Khandoba, the beloved deity of Maharashtra. This sacred shrine of Khandoba is considered a very powerful and living presence (Jagrut Sthan). Since the Lord chose to reside within the trunk of a Bori (jujube) tree, this place naturally acquired a profound and unique significance. As one of the prominent abodes of Khandoba in Maharashtra, it witnesses a continuous stream of devotees.

The original shrine of Lord Khandoba of Vadaj, situated on the banks of the Meena River, lies on the hill adjoining the village. Because of the divine presence, it is known as ‘Bhandara Dongar’ (Bhandara Hill). Legend has it that a devotee named Sadanand Chavan was deeply engrossed in the service of Khandoba on Bhandara Hill. As he grew older, climbing up and down the hill became increasingly difficult for him. Moved by his plight, the Lord Himself appeared in a dream and told him, “I am ready to come down with you.” Accordingly, the next day the Lord began following him down the hill, but out of doubt, the devotee looked back. With a loud sound, Khandoba vanished into a nearby Bori tree.

The current temple has been built around this very Bori tree. Upon stepping through the village gateway, one gets the distinct feeling of entering a fort complex. There are bastions on both sides of the temple entrance. In the middle of the bastions stands a statue of a white horse, the divine mount of Khandoba. The architecture of the bastions resembles watchtowers built on forts. The exterior of the temple is crafted entirely from stone. The temple is spacious, featuring large stone pillars, a dome, and carvings of various deities upon it. It is tastefully adorned with intricate carvings, diverse geometric patterns, and floral motifs.

Upon entering the temple, a large statue of Lord Maruti is seen. Ascending a few steps from there leads to the Nandi Sabhamandap. The serene idol of Shri Khanderai housed within the intricately carved silver sanctum looks captivating. Emerging from the main temple, right in front is the very Bori tree into which Khanderai dissolved. Inside the trunk of this tree is the stone idol of Khandoba. This is the original abode of the Lord here. This sacred spot is poetically described as: “The Bori tree itself became a temple, attaining eternal immortality.” Even today, this tree stands tall, competing in height with the temple spire. As devotees shower turmeric (Bhandara) and dry coconut pieces onto the trunk of this Bori tree, the entire surrounding area glows in a vibrant yellow.

Surrounding the tree are shrines dedicated to Lord Mahadeva, Vitthal-Rukmini, Rama-Lakshmana-Sita, Ganpati, Dattatreya, and Sant Tukaram Maharaj. In front of the temple stands an ancient stone lamp pillar (Deepmala), which is illuminated with lamps during festivals. The temple premises are clean, well-maintained, and peaceful.

Since the Lord descended from the hill on the auspicious day of Champa Shashthi, a grand fair (Yatra) is held here on this day. A ceremonial procession of the Lord’s holy sandals (Padukas) is carried out in a palanquin. Local villagers residing in Mumbai, Pune, and elsewhere for work make it a point to attend on this day. Devotees have an unwavering faith that this Lord Khandoba grants their earnest prayers (Navas). During the daily Aarti performed at 6:00 AM, 11:30 AM, and 4:30 PM, divine omens (Kaul) are sought. This is followed by the evening Aarti at 7:00 PM. Devotees can have the Darshan of Khanderai from 5:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

The Temple Trust organizes community marriages at a minimal cost, solemnizing around six hundred weddings annually. For the youth and students of surrounding villages, the temple trust runs an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) and schools. Additionally, excellent lodging (Bhakta Niwas) and Prasadam facilities have been arranged for devotees. This temple has been officially granted the ‘B’ grade pilgrimage center status by the 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