Mehndipur Balaji Temple – Where Faith Meets Fear and Healing

There are temples where you go to pray, some where you go for peace, and then there is Mehndipur Balaji Temple — a place where faith, fear, and healing meet in the most mysterious ways.

Tucked away in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, this temple doesn’t just attract devotees—it calls out to those haunted by shadows unseen, seeking relief from forces beyond the ordinary. From the moment you enter the small village of Mehndipur, you’ll sense that this is not a regular pilgrimage.

Locals whisper stories of possessed souls finding salvation, of devotees feeling an unexplained chill even in summer, and of rituals that defy logic but breathe belief. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman (Balaji) in his child form, along with two other divine forces — Pret Raj Sarkar (King of Spirits) and Bhero Nath Ji. Together, they form a powerful trio believed to banish negative energies and evil spirits.

To truly understand Mehndipur Balaji, let’s walk through its history, rituals, and experiences in detail.

A Comprehensive Guide to Mehndipur Balaji Temple

Aspect	Detailed Description
Origin & History	Estimated to be over 1000 years old, dating back to the 11th century. The idol of Balaji is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) from the rocks of the Aravalli hills. The legend says that ancestors of Saint Ganesh Puri Ji were divinely commanded in a dream to serve three powers: Balaji, Pret Raj Sarkar, and Bhero Nath. What was once dense forest slowly transformed into the spiritual village of Mehndipur. The temple architecture is Rajput-style with intricate carvings and a mysterious aura.
Spiritual Significance	This temple is famous worldwide for exorcism and spiritual healing. It is believed to be a hub where sufferers of black magic and evil spirits find release. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as charged, with loud chants and unusual rituals. The presence of the three deities is said to form a shield of protection from paranormal disturbances. Here, faith takes the form of both prayer and confrontation with the supernatural.
Temple Architecture	The temple showcases Rajput-style design, with carved balconies, stone pillars, and sacred chambers. It has four major sections, housing the idols of Balaji, Pret Raj, and Bhero Nath. The idol of Balaji is unique—formed naturally, not crafted by human hands.
Rituals & Customs	Devotees participate in three main rituals:  Durkhasta – Offering laddoos in fire rituals for blessings.  Arzi – A ritual with laddoos, lentils, and rice dedicated to Pret Raj and Bhero Nath.  Savamani – Special vows and prayers on Tuesdays and Saturdays.  Other Practices – Black balls are sold outside; they are rotated around the body and burnt in fire for cleansing. Strict rules prohibit non-veg food, onion, or garlic before visiting. Eating food or water inside the village is forbidden.
Visitor Experience	First-time visitors often feel uneasy seeing the exorcism rituals: people screaming, chanting, or performing extreme acts without feeling pain. Silence and respect are mandatory. You must not talk to strangers, touch others, or even look back once you leave. Despite the intensity, thousands come every day seeking relief.
Temple Access & Timings	Open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Morning and evening aartis mark the sacred hours. Best visited in winters and during Hanuman Jayanti/Holi. Location: Mehndipur village, Dausa district, Rajasthan (~99 km from Jaipur). Nearest airport: Jaipur. Nearest railway: Bandikui. Buses frequently run from Delhi and Jaipur.
Guidelines & Rules	- Wear modest clothes, avoid black. - Do not eat/drink inside the village. - Do not carry prasad outside. - No photography of rituals/possessed individuals. - Follow rituals in the correct order. - Do not look back after leaving.
Social Impact & Research	Beyond rituals, the temple trust supports healthcare, education, and welfare in nearby villages. Since 2013, researchers from Germany, The Netherlands, AIIMS, and Delhi University have studied the rituals scientifically, balancing faith with inquiry.

Why People Still Flock to Mehndipur Balaji

For many, Mehndipur Balaji is not just a temple—it’s a last resort. Families bring loved ones who show unexplained behaviors, believers travel hundreds of kilometers hoping for healing, and curious travelers witness one of the most unique spiritual traditions in India.

Whether you view it as a place of miracles or mysteries, one thing is certain: you don’t leave Mehndipur Balaji the same person you entered.