Foreign Tourists Mesmerised by Jejuri’s Khandoba Temple; US Dollar Notes Found in Donation Boxes

PUNE | JEJURI:
The revered Khandoba Temple at Jejuri in Pune district—worshipped as a primary deity across Maharashtra—continues to attract not only devotees from India but also visitors from around the world. The temple’s unique traditions, including the vibrant bhandara (turmeric) ritual, the historic 42-kg Mahakhanda sword, and its cultural heritage have long mesmerised foreign tourists.

Recently, during the counting of the temple donation boxes, US dollar notes were found, confirming the rising presence of international devotees. Temple manager Ashish Bathe stated, “Foreign currency from various countries is often found in the donation boxes. It reflects the deep faith of global visitors.”

Ramesh B.K., MIT Sloan School administrator from Orlando, Florida, and renowned voice actress Professor Sandra Krasa recently visited Jejuri and personally held the historic Mahakhanda sword. They expressed amazement at the golden-yellow bhandara tradition, rituals, and the cultural richness of the Jejuri hill shrine. Following local customs, Sandra Krasa lifted her husband in celebration as devotees do in the sacred turmeric area. Temple PRO Sagar Godse, Balu Khomne, and Bhate welcomed the guests.

Jejuri’s international appeal is not new. The late Dr. Günther Sontheimer, a renowned historian from Heidelberg University, lived in Jejuri for 15 years to study the deity and authored the acclaimed thesis and documentary “Khandoba – The Hunting God.” Researchers, devotees, and tourists from Russia, France, Japan, and the Netherlands visit Jejuri regularly.

However, despite its growing global reputation, the shrine lacks adequate information facilities. The historic sword is still stored in a metal box, and there are no information boards in Hindi, English, or foreign languages for visitors. Locals have expressed disappointment, stating that the temple committee focuses more on publicity and political networking than on basic amenities. With Jejuri gaining global recognition, there is an increasing demand for stronger infrastructure and visitor support at both government and temple levels.

A temple official added,
“Jejuri Khandoba Temple is not limited to Maharashtra or India. Every year, thousands of devotees from across the world visit. Foreign currencies—including US dollars, euros, and Asian currencies—often appear in donation boxes. This isn’t just money; it represents their devotion. We preserve these offerings respectfully and ensure that foreign visitors experience the rituals, bhandara, and the historic Mahakhanda sword with reverence.”