Khandoba Temple at Jejuri is one of the most revered and popular goddess temples in Maharashtra and is the official state deity (kuldevi) of Maharashtra. Located in Jejuri town in Pune district, about 50 km from Pune and approximately 200 km from Mumbai, this hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Khandoba (a manifestation of Lord Shiva) attracts millions of devotees every year.
About Lord Khandoba
Lord Khandoba, also known as Martand Bhairav or Mhalsakant, is a regional deity who is a manifestation of Lord Shiva and is worshipped across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa. He is the kuldevi of numerous communities in Maharashtra including Dhangar, Mali, Gujar, Lingayat, and many others. His consorts are Mhalsa (daughter of a wealthy merchant) and Banai (a shepherd woman), representing the union of all social classes.
History of Khandoba Temple Jejuri
The Khandoba Temple at Jejuri is believed to be several centuries old. The hilltop temple is situated on a rocky hill about 100 stone steps high. The temple is built in the characteristic Hemadpanthi style. The most unique and famous tradition at Jejuri is the bhandardara pooja where yellow turmeric powder (bhandar) is thrown in the air as an offering to Khandoba, turning the entire hilltop yellow.
Temple Timings
Khandoba Temple Jejuri is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Morning aarti is at 5:30 AM and evening aarti is at 8:00 PM. The temple is most crowded on Somvati Amavasya, Champa Shashthi (Margashirsha), and during all Ekadashi days. The Champa Shashthi festival in December is the biggest festival at Jejuri when hundreds of thousands of devotees gather.
How to Reach Khandoba Temple Jejuri from Mumbai
Jejuri is approximately 200 km from Mumbai and about 50 km from Pune. By road from Mumbai, take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and then head south from Pune towards Saswad and Jejuri. The journey takes about 4 to 4.5 hours. By train, several trains from Mumbai CST stop at Jejuri directly. State Transport buses also run regularly from Pune's Swargate bus stand to Jejuri.
Bhandar Tradition at Jejuri
The most iconic tradition at Jejuri is the throwing of bhandar (yellow turmeric powder) in the air during worship. This creates a spectacular cloud of yellow dust that covers the entire temple complex and devotees in yellow. This practice is unique to Khandoba worship and is said to represent fertility, prosperity, and the warrior nature of Lord Khandoba.
Flowers for Khandoba Pooja
Lord Khandoba is offered yellow flowers as his favorite color is yellow. The yellow marigold (zendu) is his most beloved flower offering. Traditional flower offerings at Khandoba Temple include:
- Yellow marigold garlands (most important)
- Yellow marigold loose flowers
- Bel patra and bilva leaves
- Jasmine mogra strings
- Mixed yellow flower offerings
- Lotus flowers
Mumbai Florist Hub provides fresh yellow marigold garlands, loose marigold flowers, and complete Khandoba pooja flower sets for delivery across Mumbai. For Champa Shashthi and all Khandoba puja occasions, order our special yellow flower packages delivered fresh every morning.
FAQ
Why is yellow associated with Khandoba? Yellow is the sacred color of Lord Khandoba. Turmeric (bhandar) is the most important offering to him, and yellow marigold flowers are his favorite. Devotees often wear yellow while visiting the temple.
What is Champa Shashthi? Champa Shashthi is the most important festival of Lord Khandoba, celebrated on the 6th day (Shashthi) of the bright fortnight of Margashirsha month (December). Massive gatherings are held at Jejuri during this festival.
Is there parking at Jejuri Khandoba Temple? Yes, parking facilities are available at the base of the hill. Devotees climb the steps to reach the temple at the top.
Khandoba Temple at Jejuri is a vibrant and powerful spiritual destination near Mumbai. The energy of the yellow bhandar flying in the air and the devotion of thousands of worshippers makes this an unforgettable experience. Mumbai Florist Hub is your trusted partner for fresh yellow marigold flowers and all pooja flower needs in Mumbai.
