Mehandipur Balaji Temple

Dedicated to Lord Balaji, an incarnation of Hanuman, the Mehandipur Balaji Temple in Dausa is one of the most popular pilgrim sites in Rajasthan, apart from Salasarji Temple in Sikar and Khatu Shyam Ji Temple in Khatu Village. Balaji is the childhood form of Hanuman. It is said that an image of Hanuman appeared at this sport. The Lord appeared in the dreams of local priest and asked him to consecrate a temple in his name here.

The temple is especially known to get rid of evil spirits. Hundreds of pilgrims bring the ‘possessed’ and the local priests perform the exorcism. The treatment ranges from mild (reading holy texts and consuming strictly vegetarian diet) to more intense one (violent patients are chained and shackled before the exorcism). Festive occasions like Holi, Hanuman jayanti, are thought to be the most effective times to get rid of such spirits.

The temple also organizes regular charities, food for the poor and stray animals, accommodation for the homeless, etc.