Marathas and Moghuls

Over three centuries ago (1600s), the town was frequently invaded by the marathas and the moghuls for its wealth.  There was a strong rampart wall around the town to defend it from invading armies.  Four huge gates were the only points of entry and exit.  Even today, the ruins of the wall and the gates are visible and they bear testimony to the strong defensive system built in those times.

Recent history

Although it was known for centuries that Shri Nrusimha Saraswati was born in Karanja (the town was known as 'dakshin kashi' then), the exact location of birth was determined around the year 1900.  In 1934, the Gurumandir was built at the place of birth due to the untiring efforts of the reknowned Shri Datta bhakta, Swami Brahmananda Saraswati.  Since then, Karanja has become a major pilgrimage centre for all followers of Shri Dattatreya.

Karanja is a sleepy station located on the historic narrow guage line, Shakuntala Railway (over 100 years old),  between Murtijapur & Yavatmal. Pic courtesy-Harsh Vardhan

People and Culture

People of many religious faiths live in harmony here by participating in all festivities and sharing happiness.  People are peace loving, religious, well cultured and respectful towards saints.  Economically, people are generally well-to-do and self-sufficient.  There are nongovernment societies managing educational institutions, some of which are more than sixty years old.  The Karanja Municipal Council recently celebrated its centenary.  Agriculture is the main occupation.  The rich black soil, abundance of water and pleasant climate provide ideal conditions for crops.

Karanja Geography

Nestled among hills and surrounded by lakes, Karanja is a small town with a population of 75,000.  It is blessed with temperate climate.  During the various weather seasons, the temperatures are as follows:

• Winter/Autumn (Oct - April) -  5  to 30 degrees Celsius
• Summer (May - July) - 30 to 45 degrees celsius
• Monsoon (July - September) - 25 to 33 degrees celsius

 Around Karanja

Karanja and surrounding villages have  been the locale of renowned saints.  Sant Moongsaji Maharaj, Sant Tukdoji Maharaj, Sant Gadge Baba, Sant Gulabrao Maharaj, are a few among them.  Famous pilgrim centres Mahur, Shegaon, Washim, Oundha, Parli-Vaijnath, Aundhya nagnath, and Loni are easily accessible from Karanja.

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