Hi Local Guide,
Yesterday, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Maharashtra’s first grand temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, located in Marade Pada, Bhiwandi. With a deep sense of devotion and curiosity, I embarked on this journey to witness the grandeur and significance of this historic temple.
A temple of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been built at Marade Pada in Bhiwandi to showcase the thoughts, policies, prowess, and glorious history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to the world. This is likely to be the first grand temple of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the state. The statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been sculpted by the famous sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who also sculpted the statue of Shri Ram in Ayodhya.
The temple, influenced by various temple styles across India and built on the lines of a fort, spans 2,500 square feet, with ramparts covering 5,000 square feet. The entire temple complex is spread across four acres of land. The temple was built by Dr. Raju Chaudhary, the founder president and chief trustee of Shivkranti Pratishthan Trust. The total cost of the temple is estimated at seven to eight crore rupees, funded partly by the Pratishthan and public contributions. The temple’s design was crafted by engineer and architect Vijaykumar Patil Bhiwandi under the guidance of H.B.P. Dr. Kailas Maharaj Nichite.
Place Link : Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Mandir, Maradepada, Bhiwandi.
The temple follows a fort-like structure, featuring:
- A massive entrance gate (42 feet high)
- Five temple spires
- A 42-foot assembly pavilion on the ground
- Circular watchtowers on all four corners
- A watchtower path
- Ramparts surrounding the temple with 36 sections containing magnificent sculptures depicting history
- Entire structure built by directly cutting stones
Journey to the Temple
The temple is approximately 30 kilometers from Kalyan, requiring around an hour’s travel. There is no direct transport option, so having a personal vehicle is the best way to reach the site within an hour. Alternatively, one can take a bus from Kalyan to Bhiwandi, then another bus to Mahapoli village, which is 4 kilometers from the temple. The temple is nestled in nature, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene and peaceful experience.
As I traveled, I enjoyed the scenic roads lined with trees, passing through small villages. The journey itself felt like an escape into nature. I started my trip at 10 AM and reached the temple by 11:30 AM. The road conditions were decent, with some patches requiring careful driving.
Grand Inauguration & Celebrations
From March 14 to 17, the temple hosted a Murti Pratisthapana ceremony along with various cultural events, including yagna, powadas, and other historical enactments. On March 17, the grand inauguration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s idol took place, attended by thousands of Shiv devotees. Witnessing this moment was truly awe inspiring.
Temple Structure & Features
- Main Temple Complex: The temple features a beautiful sanctum, with a six-and-a-half-foot idol of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, sculpted in Karnataka. The idol’s craftsmanship left me in awe.
- Surrounding Garden: A well-maintained garden encircles the temple, providing a pleasant space for visitors to relax.
- Historical Sculptures: The walls display historical sculptures and information in Marathi and English about key events from Shivaji Maharaj’s life.
- Massive Deepstambhas: Two majestic deepstambhas (lamp towers) stand beside the temple, illuminating the surroundings at night.
- Watchtowers & Fort-like Design: The four corner watchtowers allow a panoramic view of the village and surrounding hills.
- Weapons Display: A section of the temple exhibits historical weapons, giving insight into the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- Majestic Entrance: The main entrance features warrior, elephant, and horse sculptures, giving a regal feel.
- Lighting & Décor: The interior and exterior are adorned with intricate carvings and decorative lighting, enhancing the temple’s grandeur.
- Information Boards: There are multiple information boards placed strategically, detailing the historical significance of the temple and Shivaji Maharaj’s achievements.
Accessibility & Amenities
- The temple is open throughout the day but will close after sunset.
- Clean drinking water is available at designated spots.
- Parking and sanitation facilities are under development but operational.
- At present, there is no wheelchair accessibility, but future improvements are expected.
- The approach road allows vehicles to reach directly near the temple.
- Shaded resting areas have been set up for visitors, offering respite from the sun.
My Meetup Experience
Since it was a Monday meetup, many Local Guides couldn’t attend, but I am glad I could execute it successfully and bring this experience to the community online.
I conducted this meetup solo, with a virtual tour for fellow contributors. Many Google Local Guides joined online, including @RaviSharma111, @TravellerG , @Ptrivedi , @SaylliWalve1 , @Rushikesh_joshi , @Supriyadevkar , @Shrut19 , @ShreyaMusings , @Gurukrishnapriya , @NareshDarji and @TusharSuradkar. & Due to heavy crowding and network issues, some members like Rosy, Shubhangi and Nitu couldn’t attend, for which I sincerely apologize.
The primary purpose of this meetup was to update Google Maps with accurate details and verify accessibility aspects of the location. I will be posting a detailed Google Maps review soon with insights and pictures.
Tourism & Local Business Impact
This temple will boost local tourism and generate employment for nearby villagers. I noticed local vendors selling fresh fruits, cold beverages, and tea stalls emerging around the temple. In the future, homestay facilities and small businesses are expected to flourish, benefiting the entire region. Additionally, nearby shops selling souvenirs, traditional Maharashtrian snacks, and devotional items have started to appear.
This temple stands as a symbol of devotion, strength, and history, reflecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision and legacy. It is not just a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark that will promote tourism and small businesses in the region.
I will revisit this temple in the coming months to observe its progress and share more updates.
Jai Shivaji! Jai Bhavani!
यानिमित्ताने केलेल्या या मिट अप वाखाणण्याजोगे होते,
through calender to join virtual meet up it keep me organise to join with you on time. Great 
work you are doing to preserving and sharing our heritage culture.