Navagraha Mandir

The Navagraha Mandir, officially known as Pitambara Graha Shanti Peeth, is a sacred 250-year-old temple situated on the banks of the Kunda River in the heart of Khargone. Founded by Shree Sheshappa Sukhawadhani Weragkar, the temple has been maintained by his family for generations and is one of the rare temples in India dedicated to all nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas).

The temple complex is centered around the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), which houses the sacred seat of Pitambara Graha Shanti Peeth along with Goddess Baglamukhi and the powerful Brahmastra Chakra. Adjacent to the main shrine stands the magnificent Suryanarayan Temple, where Lord Suryanarayan is depicted riding his iconic chariot drawn by seven horses, accompanied by the Siddha Ashtadal Suryayantra.

The Parikrama Sthali (circumambulation path) is the spiritual heart of the complex, with the nine planets arranged in a specific Navgraha Dosha Nivaran sequence. Surya (Sun), the king of all planets, occupies the center. To the east are Budh (Mercury), Shukra (Venus), and Chandra (Moon). Mangal (Mars) resides in the south, while Guru Brihaspati (Jupiter) is positioned in the north. Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu complete the celestial arrangement. Devotees walk this path performing graha shanti pujas (planetary peace rituals), particularly potent during eclipses and planetary transits.

The temple is the reason Khargone earned the title "Navgrah ki Nagri" (City of Nine Planets). Unlike most Navagraha temples in India which are spread across different locations (like the nine Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu), Khargone's temple uniquely houses all nine planetary deities within a single complex, making it a one-stop destination for astrological remedies.

The grand Navgraha Mela (fair) is held annually during Makar Sankranti in January, with special emphasis on Shani (Saturn) worship. Thousands of devotثees from across central India gather for multi-day rituals, cultural programs, and the vibrant atmosphere of the religious fair.