Gajanan Maharaj’s First Math in Shegaon: History & Spiritual Significance
Quick Answer: The Gajanan Maharaj first Math Shegaon devotees ask about stood on a vacant plot owned by Sakharam Asolkar, just east of the old Mote Shiva temple. Maharaj later moved to a new site, where his Samadhi stands today. Before planning your stay, check the rooms page.
Many summaries move straight from Maharaj’s first appearance on 23 February 1878 to today’s Samadhi Mandir. Here, we look at the first Math of Gajanan Maharaj through Marathi accounts based on Shri Gajanan Vijay by Das Ganu Maharaj. This guide is for devotees staying at Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Bhakta Niwas, Shegaon, Dist. Buldhana, Maharashtra. You can also visit the Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Shegaon page.
Gajanan Maharaj first Math Shegaon: where did it stand?
Traditional accounts based on Shri Gajanan Vijay place the first Math beside the Mote temple. It was a Shiva temple named after the moneylender who renovated it.
- Plot: The Math stood on vacant land east of the temple, owned by Sakharam Asolkar.
- Local name: Marathi accounts call it the पहिला मठ(pahila Math), meaning the first Math.
This page does not cover what stands on the old plot today — please confirm with the Sansthan office before visiting.
Where did Maharaj stay before the first Math?
Devotional accounts record three places where Maharaj stayed before the first Math was built.
- Bankatlal Agarwal’s house: Bankatlal brought Maharaj home — devotees soon began coming from far away for darshan.
- The old Maruti temple: From there, he stayed in the village’s old Maruti temple.
- Krishnaji Patil’s orchard: Later, he lived for a time in the orchard of Krishnaji Patil, Khandu Patil’s youngest brother.
If a guide describes the first Math as Maharaj’s first home, remember that Bankatlal’s house came earlier.
Why did Maharaj move away from the first Math?
After Krishnaji Patil passed away, Maharaj thought of leaving Shegaon. Devotees pleaded with him to stay.
- The condition: Maharaj would stay only on land belonging to no one — the village was divided, and he wanted neutral ground.
- The application: Only government land would fit, so devotees applied to the British government for two acres.
- The grant: The British officer at Buldhana sanctioned one acre and promised more if it was kept in order for a year.
- The new Math: Public donations funded the work. Maharaj travelled there by bullock cart from the old Math, and his Samadhi stands where he sat.
The old Math and the Samadhi Mandir are two separate sites, one earlier and one later.
What does the first Math mean for devotees today?
Devotional literature draws two lessons from Maharaj’s move.
- Unity: Devotees see his wish for land belonging to no faction as a call to end rivalry.
- Equality: On the way, Maharaj sat on a sand cart whose driver, from the Mahar community, climbed down. Maharaj told him paramahansas carry no ritual impurity, a teaching against untouchability.
- Visiting: Plan your darshan with the aarti timings at Shegaon, the one-day itinerary and the location page.
- Staying: To book, message the Sansthan office on WhatsApp. Please use official channels only — no agents, no third-party confirmations.
Book before you travel, and confirm details with the Sansthan office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gajanan Maharaj first Math Shegaon devotees talk about?
It is the first Math built for Maharaj, on Sakharam Asolkar’s vacant plot east of the Mote Shiva temple. Maharaj later left for a new site.
Is the first Math the same as the Samadhi Mandir?
No. The Samadhi Mandir stands on the later site, where Maharaj sat after leaving the old Math. He took Samadhi there on 8 September 1910.
When did Gajanan Maharaj first appear in Shegaon?
Shri Gajanan Vijay gives 23 February 1878. Prakat Din follows the Hindu calendar, so confirm dates with the Sansthan office before planning Prakat Din stays.
How do I book a Bhakta Niwas room for this visit?
Message the Sansthan on WhatsApp at +919031167563 or use our online booking guide. Private rooms need at least 3 family members, and every devotee needs a valid government photo ID.
Is there a cancellation charge at Bhakta Niwas?
No. There is no cancellation charge, but please inform the office early. See our cancellation and refund policy.
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