Nivruttinath, also known as Nivritti or Nivrittinath, was born in 1273 CE as the eldest son of Vithala Pant and Rakhumabai. He grew up alongside his siblings, including Sant Jnaneshwar (Jnandev), Sopan, and Muktabai. One significant event in Nivruttinath's life occurred when his family encountered a tiger while passing through the forest near Brahmagiri, close to Nashik. Amidst the chaos, Nivruttinath sought refuge in a nearby cave where the yogi Gayaninath awaited him eagerly. It was here that Nivruttinath received initiation into the secrets of yoga and atma jnana (Self-knowledge) from Gayaninath. Following his safe return home, Nivruttinath, as per his guru's instructions, initiated his younger brother, Sant Dnyaneshwar, into the spiritual path. Under Nivruttinath's guidance and inspiration, Sant Dnyaneshwar delivered Marathi discourses on the Bhagavad Gita and penned the renowned book Bhavarthadipika or Jnaneshwari. Additionally, Jnaneshwar composed Amritanubhava un...

Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj are two of the most revered saints in the Bhakti movement of Maharashtra, India. While both have made significant contributions to Marathi literature and spirituality, their teachings and philosophies have distinct nuances. Here are some key differences in their teachings: Philosophical Foundations Dnyaneshwar Maharaj : Vedanta Influence : Dnyaneshwar was deeply influenced by the Advaita Vedanta philosophy. His works, especially the "Dnyaneshwari" (a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita), reflect this influence. He emphasized the non-dual nature of reality, where the individual soul (Atman) and the universal soul (Brahman) are one. Emphasis on Knowledge (Jnana) : As his name suggests, Dnyaneshwar placed a significant emphasis on knowledge and self-realization. He believed that through the understanding of the scriptures and the inner realization of the self, one can attain liberation (Moksha). Tukaram Maharaj : Bhakti (Devotion) Em...

The revered Sant Dnyaneshwar, a prominent Marathi saint and poet, faced significant hostility from the Brahmanas of Alandi due to his family's background. His father, Vitthal Pant, had renounced worldly life by taking sannyasa (a vow of renunciation), only to return later to his family. This act was considered a serious violation of social and religious norms, leading to the ostracism and ridicule of Vitthal Pant and his family. The relentless persecution ultimately contributed to the untimely death of both Vithalpant and his wife, Rukminibai, leaving their four children—Nivruttinath, Dnyaneshwar, Sopan, and Muktabai—in a vulnerable and marginalized state. Despite the death of their parents, the hostility from the Brahmanas did not cease. The four siblings, led by the eldest, Nivruttinath, decided to seek justice and acceptance from the Brahmanas of Paithan, a more significant center of learning and religious authority at the time. They hoped that the Brahmanas there would be more ...

The worship of Vithal (also known as Vithoba, Panduranga, or Pandharinath) is central to the religious and cultural fabric of Maharashtra. This deep-rooted devotion to Vithal in Maharashtra can be attributed to several interconnected factors that span historical, social, religious, and cultural domains. Here’s an exploration of the reasons for the popularity of Vithal worship in Maharashtra: 1. Historical and Cultural Roots Puranic Traditions : The origins of Vithal worship trace back to the Puranic texts, which connect the deity to both Vishnu and Krishna. This link provides a familiar anchor for devotees in Maharashtra, a region deeply entrenched in Vaishnavism. Medieval Bhakti Movement : During the medieval period, the Bhakti movement played a significant role in popularizing Vithal worship. The movement emphasized personal devotion (bhakti) over ritualistic practices, making spirituality more accessible to the common people. 2. Influence of Saints and Bhakti Literature Sant Dnyanes...

In the annals of Hindu mythology, the story of Rakshasa Hemadpant from Ramtek is a fascinating blend of folklore, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Ramtek, located in the state of Maharashtra, is renowned for its historical temples and significant mythological connections. Story of Rakshasa Hemadpant Hemadpant as a Rakshasa Physician According to local legends, Hemadpant was a Rakshasa, a mythological being often depicted as a demon or giant in Hindu epics. However, unlike many Rakshasas who are typically portrayed as malevolent, Hemadpant was known for his exceptional skills as a physician. His knowledge of Ayurveda and medicine was unparalleled, and he was revered for his ability to heal the sick and wounded. It is said that when Vibhishan, the brother of Ravan, fell gravely ill, he found himself in a dire situation that required immediate medical attention. Hemadpant, a wise and skilled minister serving the Yadava dynasty, came to his aid. With his extensive knowledge and...

Moro Pant, a distinguished Vaishnava poet of the 18th century CE, left an indelible mark on Marathi literature through his prolific compositions. Born in 1729 CE, his journey commenced with an immersive study of Sanskrit under the tutelage of the esteemed Sanskrit scholar Keshavashastri Padhye. This early foundation laid the groundwork for Pant's later literary endeavors. In 1753 CE, Moro Pant's path led him to Baramati, where the benevolent patronage of Baburao Naik provided him with the means to fully immerse himself in his scholarly pursuits. Freed from the constraints of financial worry, Pant dedicated himself entirely to study and the craft of writing. His patron's support enabled him to delve deep into the realms of mythology and literature, where he meticulously crafted his poetic expressions . Pant's literary repertoire is a testament to his profound devotion and scholarly acumen. He embarked on his literary journey with compositions rooted in mythological n...

Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha warrior king, died on April 3, 1680, at the age of 52. His demise marked the end of an era and left a profound impact on the political landscape of India. The exact cause of his death remains a topic of debate and speculation among historians. One prevailing theory is that Shivaji Maharaj died of a fever, possibly aggravated by the stress of governing his empire and the physical toll of his military campaigns. His health had been declining in the months leading up to his death, and he had suffered from bouts of illness. Another theory proposes that Shivaji Maharaj succumbed to dysentery, a common ailment in those times, especially for individuals leading armies in the field. Dysentery, characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration, was a significant health risk for soldiers and commanders during military campaigns. Additionally, there are assertions that Shivaji Maharaj might have been poisoned by his rivals or enemies. However, concrete ...

The encounter between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan is a pivotal moment in Indian history, representing the clash between two powerful forces in the Deccan region during the 17th century. Let's delve deeper into the historical context and the events leading up to this significant encounter. Shivaji Bhosale, later known as Shivaji Maharaj, was born in 1630 in the fortress of Shivneri in the Pune district of Maharashtra. He belonged to the Bhosale Maratha clan, and from a young age, he showed remarkable leadership qualities and a fervent desire to establish an independent Maratha kingdom in the Deccan. During the same period, the Bijapur Sultanate, ruled by the Adil Shahi dynasty, held significant sway in the Deccan region. Afzal Khan, a prominent general in the Bijapur army, was tasked with quelling the rising influence of Shivaji, who had been successfully challenging the Sultanate's authority by capturing forts and expanding his territory. In 1659, Afzal Khan was sent b...

Shivaji Maharaj's escape from Agra in 1666 CE was a daring and meticulously planned maneuver that showcased his strategic acumen and resourcefulness. Aurangzeb called upon Shivaji and his nine-year-old son, Sambhaji, to appear in Agra. Aurangzeb's intention was to dispatch Shivaji to Kandahar, now situated in Afghanistan, in order to strengthen the Mughal empire's northwestern border. However, tensions arose when on May 12, 1666, Shivaji found himself standing in court alongside lower-ranking nobles—men he had previously bested in battle. Feeling slighted, Shivaji abruptly left the court and was promptly placed under house arrest. Ram Singh, the son of Jai Singh, pledged to ensure the safekeeping of Shivaji and his son during their confinement. Shivaji's predicament while under house arrest was precarious, with Aurangzeb's court deliberating whether to execute him or retain his services. Jai Singh, after guaranteeing Shivaji's safety, endeavored to sway Aura...

Pune, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, has several Hindu temples that are culturally significant and worth visiting. Here are some important Hindu temples in Pune: Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple is one of the most famous and visited in Pune. It was established in 1893 by the famous sweet trader Dagadusheth Halwai. Chaturshringi Temple: This temple is situated on the Senapati Bapat Road and is dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi, who is believed to have protected the Pune city during a plague in the 14th century. Parvati Temple: Perched on Parvati Hill, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The temple offers a panoramic view of Pune and is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Kasba Ganpati: Kasba Ganpati is one of the oldest Ganesh temples in Pune and is believed to have been commissioned by Jijabai, the mother of Shivaji Maharaj. The temple is a prominent landmark during the Ganesh Chat...

Goddess Bhulabai is worshipped in certain particular regions of Maharashtra. She is the name given to Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva, in Marathi folklore and spiritual stories. Bhulabhai is also known as Bhuloji. The two names are referred to in various folk songs and each stanza carries either of the two names. Young girls and middle-aged women assemble and sing and dance to the folk songs dedicated to Goddess Bhulabai in the month of Ashwin – from Ashwin Shukla Paksha Dashami tithi (Dasara) to Purnima (Kojagari Lakshmi Purnima and Sharad Purnima). The folk songs are a sociological record of the society the women grow and deal with. Their trials and tribulations, their joys and sorrows and expressed through the songs. Goddess Parvati leads a married life and her problems with her spouse and her joy are expressed in the songs. The women compare their life to that of Goddess Parvati who had to live a husband who roamed around the world carefree. The songs are also part of the B...

Shri Chakradhar Swami was a great saint in the Bhakti tradition in Hinduism and was the founder of the Mahanubhav Sect in the 13th century. Shri Chakradhar Swami Jayanti 2025 date is August 25. This is the birth anniversary of the great saint. Shri Chakradhar Swami attempted to teach people the true teaching of Sanatana Dharma and to ignore the ritualism. He propagated his teachings mainly in the villages in Maharashtra . Mahanubhav Sect followed the Bhakti tradition of Vaishnavism but did not follow complicated rituals. Shri Chakradhar Swami Jayanti is annually observed on the Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi – second day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Sant Narhari Sonar Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Saint Narhari Sonar, who was an ardent devotee of Bhagavan Vithoba and Mahadev Shiva and is believed to have had the darshan of Bhagawan Vithoba (Sri Hari Vishnu). Sant Narhari Sonar Jayanti 2025 date is August 7. A goldsmith by profession, he got the darshan of Vithoba when he tried to measure the waist size of the murti of Vithoba at Pandharpur Vitthal Temple through imagination. Sant Narhari Sonar Jayanti is observed on the thirteenth day of the shukla paksha or waxing phase of moon in Shravan month as per traditional calendar followed in Maharashtra Legend has it that once a merchant asked Sant Narhari to prepare a gold waist band for Vithoba. But being an ardent devotee of Mahadeva Shiva, Sant Narhari did not want to go to Pandharpur temple. So he tried to close his eyes and imagine the waist size of Bhagwan Vithoba. But as he tried to imagine the waist size he felt as if he was touching the Shivling and this ...

Ashvattha Maruti Puja is dedicated to Hindu God Hanuman and is observed on all Saturdays or Shanivar in Shravan month in Gujarat and Maharashtra . In Gujarati and Marathi calendars, Shravan or Sawan month in 2026 is from August 13 to September 11. Saturday or Shanivar puja is usually performed to propitiate Shani Bhagavan – the navgraha who is believed to cause harmful effects on one’s horoscope. It is believed that devotees of Hanuman are not affected by Shani. Therefore many people perform Hanuman Puja on Saturdays to keep away from the evil of Shani.

Durva Ganapati Vrat is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed during the waxing phase of moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Shravan. Durva Ganapati Vrat 2026 is August 16. It is observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi day) of the Shukla Paksha of Shravan Month especially in Maharashtra . The observance of Durva Ganapati falls on the monthly chaturthi day during the Shukla Paksha of Shravan Maas. The day must not be confused with Sankashti Chaturthi which falls on the fourth day after full moon. Durva Ganapati Vrat involves worship of Lord Ganesha using the Durva Grass. Some people also observe a partial fast on the day.

Jara Jivantika Puja is mainly observed on Fridays in the Shravan Month in Maharashtra and Gujarat . Jara Jivantika Puja 2026 dates are August 14, August 21, August 28, September 4 and September 11. The vrata is dedicated to Goddess Ma Jivantika – Hindu goddess who is the protector of children. She is also believed in helping couples to get children. Goddess Jivantika is worshipped on all Fridays in Shravan month. Jara Jivantika Mantra The mantra that is chanted on the day is " Om Shri Jivantikayai Namah." Importance of Jara Jivantika Puja The significance of Ma Jivantika and Jara Jivantika Vrat is mentioned in the Skanda Purana. She is the protector of children. Earlier many children used to die before reaching the age of five. The death was more common during the rainy season. Shravan is the peak of rainy season in western parts of India. Mothers therefore kept the vrat for protecting their children. Who Observes Jara Jivantika Puja and How to...

The Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga temple is located at Nashik, Maharashtra. The Shivling in the temple is of great importance and it is noted for its specialty.  The Shiva Lingam at Trimbakeshwar temple is different from that of the other Jyotirlingas as it has three faces – Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Pujas and rituals are offered to each of the three faces. The Shivling is worshipped in a depression below the ground and a mirror has been place above it for devotees to have darshan through reflection. The morning seva is offered to Brahma. The afternoon puja is offered to Shiva and the evening puja is offered to Bhagavan Vishnu. The main puja offering to the unique Shivling at Trimbakeshwar is panchagavya – milk, curd, honey, cow urine and ghee. Bilva leaves are offered during the afternoon puja along with panchagavya. Tulsi leaves are offered during the evening puja. Mahapuja is also offered in the temple during Eclipse. The faces on the Shivling are covered with a golden m...

Shivaji Jayanti 2026 date based on Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, also referred as Shiv Jayanti, celebrates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who established the Maratha Empire during the 17th century and kindled the spirit of self rule among Hindus who were being governed by foreign rulers. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 date as per Hindu Tithi is on March 6. The birthday of Shivaji Maharaj as per Gregorian calendar is on February 19, 2026. Shivaji Jayanti 2026 Tithi Chhatrapati Shivaji Raje Bhonsle was born the third day (Tritiya) during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of moon) in the month of Phalgun (February – March) as per traditional Marathi calendar followed in Maharashtra. In 2026, it is on March 6. Showed The World Hindus Can Be United From childhood, Shivaji Maharaj showed exemplary courage and was troubled by the lack of unity and helplessness among his community. In the second ha...

Siddheshwar Yatra in Solapur in Maharashtra is annually held for four days to Siddheshwar Temple . In 2026, Siddheshwar Yatra in Solapur begins on January 13 and ends on January 16. Siddheshwar is one among the most important teachers of the Lingayat sect. He was an ardent devotee of Shiva and is believed to have composed numerous devotional poems. Siddheshwar Yatra in memory of a young girls’ devotion for Siddheshwar. Legend has it that a young girl wished to marry Siddheshwar after she was impressed by his teachings. But Siddheshwar denied her permission to marry him. But the girl was adamant and finally Siddheshwar gave her permission to marry his Yoga Danda (stick held by yogis). This symbolic marriage function is annually held for four days and is known as Siddheshwar Yatra. The Nandi Dhwajas (flag mast) are presumed as bride and groom for the marriage. The yatra is noted for the huge Rangolis that are drawn to welcome the yatras. Apart from the rituals, a...

Margashirsha Laxmi Puja is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and is observed on Thursdays during Margashirsha Month (November – December) in  Maharashtra  and parts of Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. In 2025, the Margashirsha Laxmi Puja begins on November 27, Thursday. The other Thursdays are on December 4, December 11, and December 18. This Laxmi puja is performed to get Sukh, Shanti and Aishwarya – comfort, peace and prosperity. The rituals are also observed in North India - the dates are November 6, November 13, November 20, November 27, and December 4. The Mahalaxmi Puja is observed for four Thursdays of the Margashirsha month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. Some people observe it for eight Thursdays (including the Thursdays in the next month – the Poush month). Margashirsha Laxmi Puja fast is from sunrise to sunset. The devotee should wear yellow color clothes. Some Tips on Margashirsha Laxmi Puja Performing ...