Jyotiba

The Jyotiba temple is a holy site of Hinduism near Wadi Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India. Situated at a height of 3124 feet above sea level.

The Jyotiba temple is dedicated to Jyotiba (Dattatreya), which was formed by the amalgamation of the jyotis (souls) of three gods- Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Legend says that the three gods took the form of Shri Jyotiba to destroy the evil Ratnasur. Jyotiba Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. This is also known as Kedarnath and Wadi Ratnagiri.

According to the legend Shri Jotiba who belonged to the Nath cult helped Goddess Mahalaxmi in her fight with the demons. He founded his kingdom on this mountain.

Navajiyasa built the original temple in 1730. The interiors are ancient, the idol is fourhanded. There are other temples and Light-towers.

There is a grand fair on full moon of Hindu month of chaitra. Decorated bamboo sticks called as SASAN KATHI is main attraction of this fair. Devotees from abroad and various parts of country take part in this procession. Except this fair there are some other celebrations in temple. On the full moon day a Palkhi procession is carried out.

There is other temple of goddess ‘Yamai’ on the northern part of hill. She is sister of Jotiba.

Reference: http://jyotiba.org/