Maruti Temples, Maharashtra


11 Maruti or God Hanuman temples were established by Samarth Ramdas in Maharashtra, India in the 17th century,
. The objective behind establishing these temples was to create awareness of fitness among the youth of Maharashtra so that they could participate in establishing the Maratha Empire started by Shivaji.
These temples are located at the following locations
  1. Shahapur, near Karad
  2. Masur
  3. Chaphal Vir Maruti Temple, near Satara
  4. Chaphal Das Maruti Temple, near Satara
  5. Shinganwadi, near Satara
  6. Umbraj, near Masur
  7. Majgaon, near Satara
  8. Bahe, near Sangli
  9. Manapadale, near Kolhapur
  10. Pargaon, near Panhala
  11. Shirala
All the idols are originals from the 17th century whereas the temples have been renovated. Unfortunately some of the temples are in a dilapidated state, access is not easy and some even seem derelict. This important work of Swami Ramdas needs attention from the administrators. The site can be visited from Pune/Mumbai in 2 days or in one day from Sangli, Satara, Kolhapur.