Shegaon Gajanan Maharaj Mandir is one of the most famous pilgrimage centers in Maharashtra. Located in the Buldhana district, this sacred temple is dedicated to Shri Gajanan Maharaj, a saint who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and neighboring states. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent management, the temple has become a model for spiritual and social service.
History of Shri Gajanan Maharaj
Shri Gajanan Maharaj appeared in Shegaon in February 1878. No one knew about his background, but people soon recognized his divine powers. He lived a simple life, helping the poor, healing the sick, and teaching the importance of devotion and charity. His message was clear—serve others and stay humble. After his Samadhi in September 1910, his followers built a temple at the same place, which later developed into the grand shrine seen today. The temple is managed by the Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Trust, one of the most respected religious trusts in Maharashtra.
Location and How to Reach
Shegaon is located on the Nagpur–Bhusawal railway line, about 300 kilometers from Nagpur and 550 kilometers from Mumbai. It is well connected by rail and road.
By Train: Shegaon has its own railway station, Shegaon Railway Station (SEG), which lies on the Central Railway route. Trains from Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, and Bhusawal stop here. The temple is only one kilometer from the station.
By Bus: Regular buses run from Nagpur, Amravati, Akola, Aurangabad, and Buldhana. MSRTC and private operators provide both AC and non-AC buses.
By Air: The nearest airports are Nagpur Airport (300 km) and Aurangabad Airport (260 km). From there, visitors can travel by taxi or bus.
Temple Complex Overview
The Shegaon Gajanan Maharaj Temple complex is beautifully maintained and peaceful. The main temple houses the Samadhi of the saint, made of marble and surrounded by silver decorations. Devotees stand in long but well-organized queues for darshan. The atmosphere inside is calm, filled with the sound of prayers and bells. Outside the temple, the Sansthan Office, Prasad Counter, Accommodation Offices, and Langar Hall are well arranged. The temple also provides drinking water, clean toilets, and shaded waiting areas for devotees.
Daily Darshan Timings
The temple opens early morning and remains open till night to allow devotees to participate in different aartis.
- Morning Darshan: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Kakad Aarti (Morning): 4:15 AM
- Madhyan Aarti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
During major festivals or weekends, the temple remains open longer to accommodate visitors.
Aarti and Rituals
The main aarti of Gajanan Maharaj is performed three times a day. Devotees also perform Abhishek Puja, Paduka Puja, and Parayan of Gajanan Vijay Granth, which is the holy book describing the life of the saint. The temple celebrates Samadhi Day and Pragat Din Utsav with grand prayers, music, and community service. Thursdays are considered the most auspicious day for visiting the temple, as special aartis and bhajans take place in the evening.
Accommodation for Devotees
The Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Trust provides clean and affordable accommodation for devotees.
- Bhakta Niwas (I to IV): Spacious rooms, dormitories, and family suites.
- Anand Sagar Bhakta Niwas: Modern facilities with AC rooms near Anand Sagar.
- Yatri Niwas: Simple budget rooms for pilgrims.
Online and offline booking is available at the Sansthan Booking Office near the temple gate. Private hotels and lodges are also available nearby for travelers seeking more comfort.
Prasad and Langar
The temple runs a Prasadalaya (community kitchen) that serves free vegetarian meals to thousands of devotees daily. The food is simple and prepared with devotion. The Sansthan also sells laddu and peda prasad, which devotees take home as blessings. During festivals, the langar continues day and night so that no devotee goes hungry.
Anand Sagar Project
A major attraction near the temple is Anand Sagar, a beautiful spiritual and recreational park built by the Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Trust. Spread over 350 acres, it includes gardens, temples, lakes, fountains, a meditation center, and food courts. There is also a mini train, musical fountain show, and children’s play area, making it perfect for families. Anand Sagar promotes cleanliness, discipline, and positive thinking—values taught by the saint. The entry fee is affordable, and the park remains open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Festivals and Celebrations
The main festivals celebrated in Shegaon are Pragat Din (Appearance Day) in February and Samadhi Day in September. During these events, lakhs of devotees visit from across India. The temple and town are beautifully decorated with lights, and processions, bhajans, and discourses continue for several days. The spirit of unity and devotion during these times is unforgettable.
Temple Rules and Etiquette
Devotees should remove footwear before entering the temple complex. Modest clothing is advised for both men and women. Mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside the main temple. Maintain silence inside the darshan hall and follow the queue system. The Sansthan provides lockers for storing belongings safely. Volunteers are available throughout the complex to help devotees.
Best Time to Visit
Shegaon can be visited throughout the year, but the best time is from October to February when the weather is pleasant. Thursdays are the holiest days for darshan. The summer months (March–June) are warm but manageable because the temple provides shaded waiting areas. During festivals like Pragat Din and Samadhi Utsav, the town becomes crowded, so booking accommodation early is recommended.
Nearby Attractions
- Anand Sagar Spiritual Park: A major attraction managed by the temple trust.
- Sailani Baba Dargah (Pimpalgaon Sarai): 50 km away, a famous Sufi shrine.
- Lonar Lake: A unique meteor crater lake located 70 km from Shegaon.
- Ajanta Caves: 150 km away, known for ancient Buddhist paintings.
These nearby destinations make Shegaon a perfect place for both spiritual and cultural travelers.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Carry a valid ID for accommodation booking.
- Visit early morning for peaceful darshan.
- Use the cloakroom for luggage storage near the temple.
- Avoid bringing valuables during festival days.
- Respect cleanliness rules in the temple and Anand Sagar premises.
Conclusion
Shegaon Gajanan Maharaj Mandir is not just a temple; it is a center of faith, discipline, and service. The calm atmosphere, excellent management, and constant chanting of “Gajanan Maharaj Ki Jai” fill every heart with peace. The saint’s message of humility and kindness continues to inspire millions even today. Visiting Shegaon is a journey of both devotion and peace, reminding everyone that true happiness lies in helping others and keeping faith in God.
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