Balaji Temple Washim

The ancient temple of Balaji is said to have been first built by a local named Bhavani Kala, who was the Subhedar at the local Karanja Thana. He soon became highly respected and was appointed as the ‘Divan’ (Minister) of Sabaji Bhosle and Janoji Bhosle. During the reign of Aurangzeb, apparently the temple idols were hidden beneath the soil, to be disovered years later by a horseman. Records show that the Balaji temple, Washim which is to be seen today was built over a span of nearly 12 years. Bhavani Kala not only built the main shrine for the idols, but also constructed a large area for visiting pilgrims so that they could stay within the temple complex. The main idol of Balaji is made of black stone and is decorated with ornaments. At the entrance of the temple, you can see the etched words inscribed on the pillars which give the year of the temple as ‘1700 Shaka’. Some years ago, a stunning gold-plated dome was added to the temple’s inner sanctum. On either side of the main Balaji Temple are two other temples: one dedicated to Vyankateshvar Balaji, and the other to Ramchandra. In the latter temple are images of Ramchandra, Lakshmana, Sita, Maruti and Rariha Krishna. The festival of Ramnavami is celebrated here annually.

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