Chasing 244, Maharashtra started their second innings with opener Swapnil Gugagale back to the pavilion on a duck.
At the end of third day's play Maharashtra were 3 for 1 in three overs.
Vidarbha, who had obtained a 95-run lead, were bowled out for 149 in their second innings with a five wicket haul from Akshay Darekar who ran through the home side.
Opener Wasim Jaffer (33) and lower order batsman Amol Ubarande (47) struck some lusty blows to bring some respite to the home side .
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Earlier in the day, Maharashtra resumed their first innings with 144 for 6 wickets on the board.
They added 93 runs losing four wickets. Chirag Khurana played a valiant knock of 74 but ran short of support.
Akshaya Sarwate struck with 3/41 to help the home side gain vital lead.
With the wicket showing signs of wear the visitors will need to bat with greater resolute tomorrow for an outright win.
Brief scores Vidarbha - first innings - 332 all out Maharashtra - first innings - 237 all out Chirag Khurana 78, A Sarwate 3/41, S Wagh 2/55, Ravi Thakur 2/28.
Maharashtra second innings 03 for 1 wicket.