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Bahiram Baba History
Bahiram Baba temple was built in the early 1800s by a farmer named Tulsiram Madhge. It quickly became a popular gathering place for villagers from the surrounding areas who considered the temple to be their family deity. The temple also became a social center where villagers would come to worship, be entertained, shop, and look for potential marriage partners for their sons and daughters.
Bahiram yatra, an annual pilgrimage to the temple, takes place when the main agricultural season is over, and farmers have free time and money to travel.
Animal sacrifices, mostly of goats, used to be a common practice at the temple. The meat would be consumed as part of a festive feast. However, about 45 years ago, a revered saint of the time named ‘Sant Gadge Maharaj’ visited the temple and advocated for Rationalism in Religious Practice. As a result, he banned animal sacrifice, which has since been discontinued at the temple.
Bahiram Baba Yatra
Bahiram Baba Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the Bahiram Baba Temple in Karanja, Maharashtra, India. The pilgrimage takes place in the month of February or March and is considered to be one of the most significant religious events in the region.
During the yatra, devotees from all over Maharashtra and neighboring states come to Karanja to pay their respects to Bahiram Baba, who is considered to be a holy saint and a family deity by many. The town is decorated with colorful lights, banners, and arches, and there is a festive atmosphere all around.
During the yatra, the Bahiram Baba Temple also becomes a hub of activity, with stalls selling religious souvenirs, handicrafts, and food. The famous Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton dish is a popular food item served during the yatra. Many devotees also participate in special prayers and rituals, seeking blessings from the deity and seeking to fulfill their wishes.
The Bahiram Baba Yatra is not only a religious event but also a cultural and social gathering that brings people from different communities together. It is an opportunity for people to renew their faith, connect with their roots, and celebrate their traditions and culture.
Things to buy at Bahiram Baba Temple Yatra ?
The Bahiram Baba Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the Bahiram Baba Temple in Karanja, Maharashtra, India, and it is a hub of activity with various stalls selling religious souvenirs, handicrafts, and food. Here are some things that you can buy at the yatra:
- Religious Souvenirs: There are many stalls at the yatra selling a range of religious souvenirs, such as idols, pictures, and prayer beads. These make great gifts for family and friends, and they are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
- Handicrafts: The yatra is also a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, textiles, and wooden carvings. These items are often made by local artisans and are unique to the region.
- Spices: Karanja is known for its spices, and you can find a wide range of fresh and aromatic spices at the yatra. From chili powder to cumin, turmeric, coriander, and more, you can buy spices in bulk or in small packets.
- Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton: The famous Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton dish is a popular food item served during the yatra. You can buy it from the food stalls and take it home with you as a souvenir.
- Clothing and Accessories: There are also stalls selling traditional clothing and accessories, such as sarees, dupattas, bangles, and earrings. These items are often brightly colored and intricately designed, and they make great souvenirs for yourself or loved ones.
Overall, the Bahiram Baba Yatra is a great place to shop for unique and authentic souvenirs that are deeply rooted in the local culture and traditions.
Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton
Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton is a popular dish that is associated with the Bahiram Baba Temple in Karanja, Maharashtra, India. It is a spicy mutton curry that is prepared in a large pot or handi, and is typically served as part of a festive meal during the Bahiram yatra, an annual pilgrimage to the temple.
According to local legends, Bahiram Baba himself used to enjoy this dish and it was one of his favorite meals. The dish has since become a popular food offering at the temple, and is also widely available in the local restaurants and street food stalls in Karanja and the surrounding areas.
The preparation of Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton typically involves marinating mutton pieces in a blend of spices, including chili powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and garam masala, as well as ginger and garlic paste, yogurt, and lemon juice. The marinated mutton is then cooked in a handi or a large pot with onions, tomatoes, and more spices until it is tender and flavorful.
The dish is typically served with rice, roti or naan, and a side of raita or salad. It is known for its spicy and aromatic flavors, and is a must-try for anyone visiting the Bahiram Baba Temple or the Karanja area.
How to reach Bahiram Baba Temple ?
The Bahiram Baba Temple is located in Karanja, which is a town in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Here are some ways to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which is about 195 km away from Karanja. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Karanja.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are the Betul /Amravati / Chandur Bazar Railway Station. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a rickshaw to reach the temple.
- By Road: Karanja is well-connected to other cities in Maharashtra by road. The town is located on National Highway 548C, which connects it to Nagpur, Betul, and other major cities. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Karanja.
Once you reach Karanja, the Bahiram Baba Temple is located in the center of the town and is easily accessible by foot, rickshaw or taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
What are the main attractions of Bahiram Baba Temple?
The main attractions of the temple include the sacred idol of Bahiram Baba, the temple architecture, and the serene and peaceful surroundings. The temple is also known for its famous Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton dish.
What are the things to buy at Bahiram Baba Yatra?
At Bahiram Baba Yatra, you can buy religious souvenirs, handicrafts, spices, Bahiram Baba Handi Mutton, clothing, and accessories, among other things.
What is the significance of Bahiram Baba Yatra?
The Bahiram Baba Yatra is considered to be one of the most significant religious events in the region. During the yatra, devotees from all over Maharashtra and neighboring states come to Karanja to pay their respects to Bahiram Baba and seek blessings.
What is the history of Bahiram Baba Temple?
The temple was built in the early 1800s by a farmer called Tulsiram Madhge. It quickly became the gathering place for villagers from all around who designated this temple as their ‘family deity.’
What is distance of Bahiram from Paratwada ?
Bahiram is 18 kms from Paratwada towards Betul highway. It is situated on Madhya Pradesh – Maharashtra border.
What is distance of Bahiram from Amravati ?
Bahiram is around 65 kms from Amravati. You can go to Bahiram via Paratwada or Chandur Bazar.
