In the golden history of Shri Datta Mandir, the name of Sw. Haribhau Joshi is remembered with utmost respect and gratitude as a guardian during revolutionary times and devoted temple caretaker. Though the Joshi family originally hailed from the Konkan region, destiny brought them to Akola. Haribhau Joshi’s life was not merely that of a priest performing rituals; he became a symbol of peace, service, and dedication in pre-independence India.

Haribhau Joshi was a learned and artistic personality. Born into a scholarly family, he mastered astrology, auspicious timings, religious rituals, and Yagnas. Yet, he did not confine himself to traditional roles alone. His love for art and education led him to settle in Pune as a painter and teacher at the Art School. His personality was a unique blend of scholarship, humility, simplicity, and artistic sensibility.

At that time, India’s independence movement was gaining momentum. Pune was a hub of revolutionaries, intellectuals, teachers, and artists, creating a subtle yet powerful atmosphere.

Haribhau Joshi: * Provided indirect assistance to revolutionaries whenever needed, * Supplied crucial information, * And occasionally risked his own safety for their protection.

He was aware that his involvement might draw the attention of the British authorities, but patriotism drove him to act fearlessly.

As circumstances became more dangerous, there was a risk of British surveillance. Lokmanya Tilak personally advised Haribhau: “Leave Pune for the safety of yourself and your family.”

This was no ordinary suggestion—it meant a complete change of life path. Haribhau Joshi knew he had to balance revolutionary duty with family safety. He left Pune and, by fate, arrived in Akola, then a remote and unfamiliar land.

At that time, Akola was peaceful but underdeveloped. In the old city, Smt. Banu Bai Deshmukh had recently established the Shri Datta Mandir. She needed a learned, virtuous, and responsible priest.

For Haribhau Joshi, this was a divine opportunity. He took charge of rituals and temple management under an arrangement that included: * A small hut within the temple premises * Annual supply of grains

This ensured a safe and peaceful life for his family, away from British interference.

Once in Akola, Haribhau Joshi flourished with dedicated energy. He did not only perform worship: * Brought discipline to the temple, * Standardized daily rituals, * Guided devotees, * And filled the temple environment with spiritual practice, peace, and purity.

His arrival brought stability, continuity, and spiritual strength to Shri Datta Mandir.

The revolutionary zeal Haribhau carried from Pune merged into devotion and service in Akola. Behind his calm demeanor were: * Courageous deeds for the country, * And a subtle yet influential role in the independence movement.

He became a source of inspiration for the local community.

After Haribhau Joshi, the responsibility of temple service and management passed to his eldest son, Dattopant Joshi. He: * Honored his father’s principles, * Understood the temple’s legacy, * Preserved tradition with devotion

And laid the strong foundation for the temple’s present prestige. Today, the third generation of the Joshi family continues this legacy, affirming: “This temple is not just built of stones; it is a monument to Haribhau Joshi’s devotion, Lokmanya Tilak’s foresight, and Banu Bai’s faith.”