A unique temple of Narasimha at Dhom, Wai, Maharashtra

A unique temple of Narasimha at Dhom, Wai, Maharashtra

Located about 32 km north of Satara, in Maharashtra and about 88 km south of Pune, on the banks of the Krishna river, Wai is a famous pilgrimage site. It is the headquarters of taluka-Wai and a historical city surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain ranges.

Wai was historically known as Virat Nagari, as per local legends, and is believed to have connections with the Mahabharata, where the Pandavas are said to have stayed in exile. The town has been an important center of Shaiva and Vaishnava worship, as evident from its numerous ancient temples. By the 12th –14th century, during the Yadava dynasty, Wai was an important settlement under the rule of the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty of Devagiri. Wai gained prominence during the Maratha Empire, especially under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. His general, Raghunathpant Hanmante, developed Wai into a strategic military outpost and administrative center. Many of the temples and ghats in Wai were built during this period by Deshastha Brahmins and local rulers. It was a major financial and cultural centre, often called the "Kashi of the Deccan" due to the presence of over 100 temples along the Krishna River.

Out of these, one of the unique temples is Lakshmi Narasimha temple, on the banks of Krishna River near Dhom dam. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is a fine example of Maratha architecture. The temple is a major pilgrimage site, especially during Narasimha Jayanti, which celebrates Lord Narasimha’s victory over the demon, Hiranyakashipu. The Krishna River flowing beside the temple adds to its spiritual ambiance, making it a revered place for devotees and saints. It is part of Wai’s larger temple landscape, which includes the Dholya Ganpati Temple, Kashi Vishweshwar Temple, Chakreshwar Temple, Menavali Ghat temples etc.

When this temple was built in the 17th–18th century during the rule of the Peshwas, Wai was an important administrative and religious center under Nana Fadnavis, a key statesman of the Peshwa court who contributed to the temple's construction and development. The temple was established as a major Vishnu temple in the region, complementing the dominant Shaiva worship in Wai.  

Though there are no widely documented copper plates or inscription specifically at the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, some inscriptions found in Wai and nearby temples (e.g., the Dholya Ganpati Temple) provide clues that during Yadavas (12th–14th Century CE), Wai was a Vaishnava pilgrimage center. The Yadava kings, like Ramachandra and Singhana, were known for patronizing Narasimha worship. One stone inscription near the temple refers to a grant given to the temple priests, possibly dating to the late medieval period. Records from the Peshwa period, in 18th CE, show that Nana Fadnavis contributed to several temples in Wai, including this one. Some Modi script inscriptions mention land grants and donations made to sustain the temple and its priests.

Considering the policy of the Peshwas, to revive and maintain temples balancing their patronage between Shaivism, Shaktism, and Vaishnavism, it is likely that this temple was constructed under their patronage.

The temple complex has a fortification wall around the temple with huge bastions on the corners. The entry gateway- Mahadwara of the temple has a Nagarkhana (Drum House) above, a typical feature of the Maratha architecture. The complex has two temples- Sidhheshwara Shiva temple and Lakshmi Narasimha temple, both the temples facing each other. Shiva temple faces east, and Narasimha temple faces west.

Main entry gate of the temple

The temple is characterised by basalt stone construction and intricate carvings and follows a similar architectural language to other regional temples. The Siddheshwara Shiva temple is still in its original architectural style, whereas the Narsimha temple is newly renovated and on a huge octagonal plinth (Adhisthana).  

Shiva temple has a beautiful Nandimandapa, which is placed on a huge turtle in a lotus-shaped pond (pushkarni), all constructed in basalt, with fine joinery and details. The Nandi Mandapa has a Shikhra with decorations in stucco plaster.

The main temple of Shiva can be accessed by stone steps leading to the mandapa. The mandapa is adorned with carved columns and a ‘Maratha’ arch. The style of columns and arches demonstrates rich Maratha architectural genius. The typical niches are on either side of the garbhagriha wall in the Mandapa. The Garbhagriha of the temple is lowered by a few feet, where the Shiva linga is positioned facing North.

Nandi Mandapa of the temple

The Lakshmi-Narashimha temple is beautifully sculpted, depicting Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha incarnation (Body of human and face of lion) with Goddess Lakshmi seated beside him. The shikhara is adorned with carvings of deities, floral motifs, and mythological figures. The temple has a grand sabhamandapa (assembly hall) with beautifully carved pillars and arches. Pradakshina Patha (Circumambulatory Pathway) – Enabling devotees to walk around the sanctum, which is a significant ritual in Hindu worship.

Shikhara of the temple

The shikhara is a typical Deccan Nagara-style tower, tapering towards the top and adorned with multiple miniature spires (urushringas). Intricate sculptures of divine beings, celestial dancers, and mythological animals embellish the tower. The upper tiers of the shikhara feature amalakas (ribbed disc-like structures) and a kalasha (sacred pot) at the apex.

The Lakshmi Narasimha idol at Wai is intricately carved, showing a balance between Ugra (ferocious) and Shantha (calm) aspects. Unlike Hampi’s Ugra Narasimha, where the deity appears fierce, the Wai Narasimha has a composed expression, with Lakshmi sitting beside him, signifying protection and benevolence. The idol inside the garbhagriha (sanctum) is a beautifully carved Lakshmi Narasimha, where: Narasimha has four arms, holding a Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus). Goddess Lakshmi is seated on Narasimha’s left thigh, signifying compassion and divine grace. The expression on face is calm and protective, different from the Ugra Narasimha depictions of South India, emphasizing Shanta Narasimha (the peaceful form).               The mukuta (crown) is elaborately decorated, resembling Deccan-era Vishnu sculptures found in temples of the Yadava and Peshwa periods. The pillars of the Sabhamandapa are adorned with episodes from the Narasimha Purana, showcasing Prahlada’s unwavering devotion to Vishnu. The killing of Hiranyakashipu (Narasimha emerging from the pillar). Lord Vishnu blessing Prahlada.

The ceiling panels feature lotus motifs and celestial beings (apsaras and Gandharvas). The shikhara (spire) has miniature temple motifs, possibly referencing earlier Yadava-era structures. The door lintel of Garbhagriha has a Ganesh patti (Ganapati at the center of the lintel).

This temple is well-maintained and attracts both pilgrims and tourists interested in history and architecture. It is an important site for understanding the artistic, mythological, and historical narratives associated with Narasimha worship in Maharashtra. Architecturally, it represents the Deccan’s adaptation of the Nagara style. Sculpturally, it offers a balanced depiction of Narasimha, distinct from the fierce Ugra Narasimha of South India. Historically, it reflects the Peshwa patronage of Vishnu temples, standing as one of Maharashtra’s finest Narasimha shrines. The temple reflects influences from Peshwa-era craftsmanship and classical Hindu iconography. It is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a testament to centuries of devotion, artistry, and resilience. From the intricately carved stone pillars to the divine presence of Lakshmi Narasimha, every element of this temple speaks of India’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage.

View of the temple from Mandapa

Visiting this temple is not just about witnessing history—it is about experiencing the divine energy that has inspired generations. As you stand before the serene yet powerful idol of Narasimha, you are reminded that faith, like architecture, withstands the tests of time.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple at Wai offers an unparalleled journey into the past and a moment of deep personal reflection. Let this visit be a reminder that strength and compassion go hand in hand, just as Lord Narasimha embodies both protection and grace.

Step into this sacred space, embrace the timeless wisdom it holds, and carry its blessings forward in your journey.