Search Indian Maps, Pincodes, Local Info and more...
Maharashtra Shri Nrusimha Saraswati Gurumandir Sansthan
The Narsimha Saraswati Gurumandir is the birthplace of the Lord Dattreya’s second incarnation. Karanja has so much of importance because this is the birthplace and in spite of His travel to different parts of the country, this is considered to be the religious hub in more ways than one.
History
Talks about construction of the temple dates back to the 1930s when this place was owned by Sri Narharpant Ghude. At the mention of the temple, he was magnanimous to give up a major portion of the house. So, eventually in 1934, this temple came into existence. Ever since, there have been many modifications and today the temple that is seen has been built by the philanthropic support of believers.
Architecture
Though this was initially a part of a house, today, there are a lot of other architectural developments in the temple. There are big halls for conducting religious functions, basic accommodation facilities for the pilgrims and facilities to cook for them. The prime area of importance in the temple is the Oudumber tree where Narsimha Saraswati Swamy gave darshan to the general public in 1943.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport to get to Narsimha Swamy temple is Nagpur. From Nagpur there Karanja is about a bus ride about four hours away.
By Rail
Since Karanja is between the rail stations of Murjitapur and Akola, these are the two closest rail stations. Buses will take you to Karanja from either of these places in an hour and if you choose to get off at Murjitapur you have the additional flexibility of taking the Shakuntala railways to Karanja directly.
Local Transport
There are normal buses or state transport buses that connect to Karanja from all parts of Maharashtra. There are direct buses from important cities like Bombay and Pune. There are local trains that get you to Murjitapur from Bombay and Pune and these trains could be convenient options with much lesser crowds.
Important Shrines
The most important of the shrines in Guru Mandir is of course the sitting pose idol of Shri Guruji himself and the peaceful pose made out of pure white marble spreads peace and tranquility in the minds of the pilgrims who come from far and near to see Him.
Other than this, the temple also has a Ganesh idol – which is considered as the first god to be worshipped according to Hindu customs and the Shiv ling – devoted the most powerful of all Gods, the Mahadev himself.
Significance of the Temple
The temple is considered to be very blessed as this has come up with the blessings of the Guru Maharaja and the support that has been rendered by the pilgrims who come from far off places to have darshan. From a simple home like temple, today the temple has become a full-fledged spiritual centre in itself and it has become one of the prominent temples to be visited on pilgrimages.
Attractions
When you are at Karanja, you can also spend time at the Data Mandir, the Old Shiva Mandir, and the Ram Mandir that houses the idols of Ram, Laxman and Sita. Apart from these holy temples, you can also visit the Rishi Talo, Bindu Teerth that are holy tanks
Timings and other Important Information
The temple is opened in the morning every day and functions till late evening. There are puja’s at regular intervals and there are people who come in from far and near to be part of these festivals. Apart from these daily pujas, there are religious ceremonies all through the year and the main festival is conducted in the last week of every year and goes on until the first week of February commemorating the birth celebrations of Sri Narsimha Swamy.
Weather and Time to Visit
Since the weather is warm all year around, you can visit this temple all through the year. However, this temple could be heavily crowded at the year end until the beginning of February owing to the ceremonies at this temple.
Accommodation
There are accommodation facilities within the temple itself and the pilgrims can make use of this. The temple authorities are continuing to revamp the accommodation facilities at the temple and it is best to make use of this facility as this neat, convenient and moderately priced.
Tips for Devotees
Devotees are advised to be focused in the religious activities only when they visit the temple. It is always better to chant the holy name and not engage in unlawful activities.
Photo Gallery