Mhasoba is widely worshipped in Maharashtra and in parts of
Karnataka, Gujarat , Andhra Pradesh and Madhya
Pradesh. The name of Hindu God Mahasoba is derived from the term Mahisa and it
means buffalo. In some regions, he is considered as the chief of spirits. Mhasoba
is mainly worshiped to overcome epidemics.
There is no human figure or animal figure of Mhasoba. He is
represented by a piece of stone which has no definite form or distinct shape.
He is enshrined under a tree or in small square structure
built on the outskirts of a village or near the boundary wall of farmlands.
When there is an outbreak of an epidemic, Mhasoba is offered
coconut, pumpkin etc.
Oil pressers (Teli community) worship him before the start
of oil pressing season.
Some scholars believe that during the medieval period when
there were frequent droughts, a large section of society turned to cattle
rearing for their livelihood. Buffalo
then became sacred and was raised to status of a deity.
One of the famous temples dedicated to Mhasoba is located at
Mhase near Thane. The festival and fair held in paush month – full moon day in
December/January attracts thousands of devotees.