On a hill at Jejuri near Pune in Maharashtra stands the celebrated temple of Khandoba — Martanda Bhairava, a warrior form of Lord Shiva — the beloved family deity (kuladaivat) of countless families across Maharashtra and neighbouring lands. Riding a horse and bearing a sword, Khandoba is revered as the vanquisher of the demons Mani and Malla, a protector and giver of victory.
Jejuri is famed as the golden hill, for its great festivals fill the air with clouds of turmeric powder (bhandara) flung joyously by devotees, coating the steps and the shrine in gold. Reached by a long climb of stone steps, the hilltop temple draws vast crowds, especially at Somvati Amavasya and Champashashthi. Khandoba of Jejuri is among the most vibrant and beloved shrines of Maharashtra.
