Bankatlal & Gajanan Maharaj: Who Was Bankatlal and His Role in Shegaon
Quick Answer: The Bankatlal Gajanan Maharaj story begins on 23 February 1878. Bankatlal Agarwal, a wealthy resident of Shegaon, Dist. Buldhana, Maharashtra, recognised a young stranger as a saint. Devotional literature records that he took Maharaj home. Devotees observe the day each year as Prakat Din at Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Shegaon.
If you are searching for Bankatlal Gajanan Maharaj, you may be wondering who he was and what he did for Maharaj. This page answers both, and helps you plan your visit to Shegaon and book a stay. For the wider kshetra history, read the complete guide to Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Shegaon.
Who was Bankatlal Agarwal?
Bankatlal Agarwal was a wealthy resident of Shegaon — sources call him a moneylender or a merchant — and tradition names him as the first to recognise Maharaj.
- Spellings: Agarwal, Agrawal and Bankat Lal all refer to the same devotee.
- Companion: Several accounts also place Damodarpant Kulkarni beside him at the first sighting.
Treat different spellings as one devotee.
What happened on 23 February 1878?
Shri Gajanan Maharaj first appeared in Shegaon on 23 February 1878, Magh Vadya Saptami. Devotees now observe that day as Prakat Din.
- The scene: Devotional literature recalls a young man outside Devidas Paturkar's house, picking grains from discarded leaf plates.
- Bankatlal's reaction: He did not take the stranger for a madman — he sensed a saint and questioned him.
Please confirm the Prakat Din date with the Sansthan office each year, then read about Bhakt Niwas booking during Prakat Din.
What was Bankatlal's role in Maharaj's early days at Shegaon?
Gajanan Vijay records Bankatlal as Maharaj's first host — and later as the devotee who went to bring him back.
- Searching: After Maharaj ran off, Bankatlal searched Shegaon until he found him.
- Hosting: Maharaj stayed at Bankatlal's house, where devotees chanted his mantra.
- Pimpalgaon: When a saint was reported at Pimpalgaon, Bankatlal went to take him back.
Treat these episodes as devotional accounts.
Where can devotees connect with Bankatlal's story today?
The Bankatlal Gajanan Maharaj story is best felt in Shegaon itself — Maharashtra Tourism lists Shri Bankatlal House as a historical site.
- Bankatlal House: Whether visits are open is not confirmed here, so please ask the Sansthan office first.
- Darshan: Darshan runs 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. See the aarti timings at Shegaon.
- Planning the day: The Shegaon one-day itinerary helps order your visit, and the location page gives directions.
Plan darshan first, then add Bankatlal House if access is confirmed.
How can a devotee book a stay in Shegaon?
Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Bhakta Niwas in Shegaon takes bookings on the booking page and on WhatsApp at +919031167563. Use official channels only — no agents, no third-party confirmations.
- Eligibility: Private rooms need at least 3 family members. Unmarried couples or friend groups are placed in the dormitory.
- Stay length: A stay is 24 hours from check-in, and extensions depend on availability.
Message early (see how far in advance to book) and check tariffs on the rooms page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bankatlal Gajanan Maharaj connection?
Bankatlal Agarwal was a wealthy Shegaon devotee who first recognised Shri Gajanan Maharaj as a saint on 23 February 1878. Devotional literature also records that he hosted Maharaj at home.
Who first discovered Gajanan Maharaj in Shegaon?
Tradition names Bankatlal Agarwal, and several accounts also name Damodarpant Kulkarni, outside Devidas Paturkar's house on 23 February 1878. Accounts differ on minor details of the scene.
Is Prakat Din the birthday of Gajanan Maharaj?
No. Prakat Din marks the day Maharaj first appeared in Shegaon, and his birth details are unknown. Please confirm each year's date with the Sansthan office.
Can I visit Bankatlal's house in Shegaon?
Maharashtra Tourism lists Shri Bankatlal House as a historical site. Whether visits are open is not confirmed here, so please ask the Sansthan office before planning yours.
What documents do I need to book a room?
Every devotee needs a valid government photo ID, such as Aadhar, Voter ID, Passport or Driving Licence. Married couples may be asked for marriage proof. See the booking documents guide.
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