India is a land of mythology. Ramayana and Mahabharata are the two main epic ancient scriptures that India has given to the world. When the common part where Ramayan and Mahabharata connect is Lord Hanuman. What if I tell you that I know a land where Lord Hanuman slept after he got tired while finding sita mata? You won’t believe it, right? Even I didn’t believe in those stories until I visited the Bhadra Maruti temple located in India. So, let’s get all the details from my travel experience that’ll make your travel easier and hassle-free.
Basic Details about Bhadra Maruti Temple
The Bhadra Maruti temple is located in the Khultabad region of the Aurangabad division (now also known as Chattrapati Sambhajinagar) in Maharashtra. The speciality of the temple is the presence of reclining idols of Lord Hanuman, which are very few in the world, making it an incredibly auspicios location from the POV of Hindus. It’s 4 kilometers away from reknown world heritage sites, the Ellora Caves. The Ghrishneswar temple among 12 Jyotirlingas is only 11 minutes away from the temple. While there are many other locations to travel in the region, it is considered auspicious to visit Bhadra Maruti before starting the tour.
The revered shirne dedicated to Lord Hanuman, which has sleeping posture also known as ‘Bhav Samadhi’ has a great history. Let’s delve into the history of Shri Bhadra Maruti.
History of Bhadra Maruti Khultabad
There is a unique legend associated with this place. It goes back to the time when King Bhadrasen was the ruler of Khuldabad, back then known as Bhadrawati. King Bhadrasen was a devout devotee of Lord Rama, and he used to spend hours singing to melodies and bhajans for Ram. He took good care of his kingdom and people. On auspicious occasions, he organized various events to pray and praise Lord Ram.
One day, Lord Hanuman, who is the supreme devotee of Lord Ram, while flying through the skies, heard the melodies and songs in praise of Lord Ram, which made him attracted towards the location. He was so captivated by the devotional vibe and beauty of the spot that he decended towards it and entered the deep state of meditation spontaneously. After a while, Hanuman took a reclining position. King Bhadrasen was overjoyed by the presence of Lord Hanuman and requested him to stay forever and bless the region with his presence.
The temple’s legacy is also interwoven with a popular saint, Shri Swami Samarth Ramdas. He is believed to have discovered the reclining posture of Lord Hanuman. The temple has another story after its name. ‘Bhadra’ means auspicious, and ‘Maruti’ means Lord Hanuman. Hence Bhadra Maruti. Thus, the temple has it’s own unique name and legacy, which is unmatchable with different timelines.
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Significance and architecture of the temple
It is a significant pilgrimage site, especially for those who worship Lord Hanuman. In some scriptures, it says that the person who bows and prays to the deity will have all the blessings and prayers answered. There were thousands of devotees during shravan and on auspicious occasions. You’ll need to be patient and walk in line if you’re visiting Saturdays. As the poplarity of the temple is rising day by day, the temple is always filled with large number of devotees.
The architecture of the temple is a blend of North Indian and South Indian architecture. This creates a unique and captivating ambience. Lord Ram, Sita Mata, and Lakshman also have their shrines in the temple, beside the main shrine with the reclining posture of Lord Hanuman.
Some facts about Bhadra Maruti
- The temple is just 4 kilometers away from world heritage site Ellora caves. Hence, it is a note for the people visiting the ellora caves to visit this place before visiting caves.
- The Ghrishneshwar temple among the 12 Jyotirlingas is also at 10 minutes distance from the temple. Make sure not to waste this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- The Mhaismal hill station is just 22 minutes from the Bhadra, as both are located in the same taluka of Khuldabad. The scenic beauty of the mountains will enter your diaries, making it an everlasting experience.
- You can try Kunthalgiri Pedha, which is the tastiest local sweet and doesn’t spoil for at least 5 days. You won’t regret taking it back with you for your family. I’ve always loved it.
The Way to reach Bhadra
First, you’ll have to reach Aurangabad City (now also known as Chattrapati Sambhajinagar) in Maharashtra state. You can reach them by any mode of transport. Domestic and international flights are available from Mumbai, Delhi, and all other major parts of India. You can reach there by train, as it is the major station of the South Central Railway. You can also reach them by bus.
Once you reach Aurangabad, you can reach Bhadra Maruti by local taxi, private vehicle, or local buses run by the municipal corporation with minimal ticket fares. The same bus facility also runs through Shri Ghrishneshwar and the world-famous ellora caves.
There is no ticket fare for the Bhadra maruti temple. If somebody asks for money, don’t pay anything. It’s all free inside the premises. Just make sure you properly keep your footwear and don’t leave them anywhere else on the premises. They’re at your own risk.
Some FAQs about Bhadra Maruti
The distance of Bhadra Maruti from Aurangabad is approximately 40–50 minutes, depending on the vehicle and traffic conditions. But it should take no longer than an hour.
The distance of Shri Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga from Bhadra Maruti is about 10 minutes.
Local buses are constantly on the run to ellora caves passing through the bhadra maruti. It should take no longer than 30 minutes.
There are no specific dates or days to avoid. You can visit almost anytime. Just make sure it is crowded on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and on auspicious occasions of Ramnavami and Hanuman Jayanti.
Make sure you don’t wear any revealing clothes especially women. Cover your shoulders and knees. Jeans and other modern attires are accepted if not revealing or vulgar. Respect the traditions and boundries of religions. Don’t make fun of anything or hurt the sentiments of locals. show kindness, empathy and trust.
Conclusion: Bhadra Maruti Temple
There are innumerable piligrim places that Hindus worship. But some of them have a special frequency that no other place can match. Some vibration and frequency are felt when you enter the premises of the temple. It’s the best location to enter the deep state of meditation for spiritual sadhakas. Make sure to take something eternal from the meditation done there. Never underestimate the meditative frequency and aura of Lord Hanuman.
Now I’ll take your leave for the next blog from another scenic and holistic location. Till then, if you have any queries or questions, please mail at theasiandigest@gmail.com. Comment on your experience about the temple. Take Care, Jai Shri Ram!
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