The Barshi Bhagwant Temple is a famous temple located in Barshi which is the headquarters of a taluka in the Solapur district of Maharashtra. The temple holds pride of place as the only temple in India where the resident deity, Lord Vishnu is addressed as Bhagwant. The Barshi Bhagwant Temple is one of the oldest temples in Maharashtra.

History

Built in 1245 AD, the Barshi Bhagwant temple attracts devotees with its unique Hemadpanthi style architecture and detailing, which is typical of most of the temples created during that era in this part of the country. The main entrance of the temple is from the East but there are three other entries to the temple from all the sides. The sanctum sanctorum of the Garudkhamb is at the center of the temple.

The management of the day to day affairs of the temple is handled by a Panch Committee. The daily poojas and rituals are carried out by the Badaves.

The Special Features of the Temple

The main idol of Lord Vishnu as Bhagwant is carved out of black stone and is shown holding various items in the hands including a shankh or the conch, the chakra and the mace or the Gada. Just below the right hand is an image of the Lord’s ardent devotee, King Ambrish. There is an idol of the Goddess Laxmi at the back of the Bhagwant idol. The idol has a Shivlinga on the forehead. On the chest of the deity are the impressions of the footsteps of the Rishi Bhrigu. The idol reflects peace and serenity which attracts devotees in large numbers daily.

Poojas and Rituals Conducted Here

There are certain poojas and rituals that are performed daily in the temple for which devotees wait with reverence. These include the Dhoop Aarti, the Maha Pooja and the Kakada Aarti. The rituals end with the Shejarti done just before the doors of the temple is closed for the day.

Festivals and Events Observed

The temple sees a huge surge in number of devotees on days like Ashadi Ekadashi and Kartik Ekadashi. There are special poojas and events held here on these days of the year. During the Ekadashi, a large procession is taken out through the village with the idol kept on a Garuda. On every Poornima or Full Moon day, a chabina is taken out.

Timings

The temple is open for devotees to take darshan of the Lord from 6 AM to 7 PM. All the aartis are conducted by priests at fixed timings.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Barshi is during the winter months from December through February. The climate is extremely pleasant during January-February. It is advisable to avoid visiting Solapur during the summer season as temperatures can reach as high as 40-42°C with the sun beating down relentlessly. Monsoon season is also a pleasant time to visit the temple and nearby destinations as the place takes a calming shade of green everywhere.

How to Reach

By Road

Barshi is 70 km from Solapur. The city is well connected by road to all the key districts and cities of Maharashtra by both government and private buses.

By Rail

The nearest railway station from Barshi is Solapur which is approximately 70 km away.

By Air

Pune International Airport is the nearest international airport from Solapur. It is about 275 km from Solapur.