Martand Bhairav Utsav 2025 at Khandoba Temple Jejuri in Maharashtra

lord khandoba

Martand Bhairav Utsav, Martand Bhairav Shadratrotsav is a popular festival held at Khandoba Temple, Jejuri, near Pune in Maharashtra. In 2025, Martand Bhairav Shadratri Utsav begins on November 21 and ends on November 26 with Champa Sashti or Malhar Sashti.

During this festival, Lord Khandoba is worshipped with turmeric (bhandar), Bel leaves, onions, and other vegetables. Lord Khandoba is also worshipped by Muslims in Maharashtra.

Martand Bhairav Festival is observed from the first day of Marathi Margashirsha month to sixth day. The major festival is celebrated on the day of culmination i.e. Champa Sashti. It commemorates the great fight of Khandoba against the demons and demolition of them.

Khandoba, believed to be a form of Lord Shiva, is also popular with other names such as – Malhari Martand, Martand Bhairav, Khanderaya, Khanderao and Mallu Khan.

Significance

• The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Khandoba (also known as Malhari Martand or Martand Bhairav), a fierce form of Lord Shiva, over the demons Malla and Mani after a six-day battle. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.​

• Khandoba is revered as a warrior god and protector, especially worshipped by farmers, warriors, shepherds, and tribal communities across Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.​

Rituals and Celebrations

• Devotional worship during the festival includes offerings of turmeric (bhandar), Bel leaves, onions, vegetables, and special prayers or mantras specific to Lord Khandoba.

• The festival is inclusive, with participation across caste and religious lines, including some Muslim devotees.

• Grand celebrations involve processions, bhajans, and kirtans at Jejuri, Maharashtra, with the temple decorated and illuminated vibrantly.

• Newly married couples and families also seek blessings during this period for prosperity and harmony.​

Regional Importance

• While Jejuri is the focal point of the celebration, similar observances occur across Maharashtra and neighboring states where Khandoba temples exist.

• The festival deepens community bonds and spiritual devotion through elaborate rituals and cultural events honoring Martand Bhairav’s divine protection and valor.​

Martand Bhairav Utsav thus holds immense religious and cultural importance, celebrating divine victory, protection, and community unity through worship of Lord Khandoba in his Martand Bhairav form.