Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in Maharashtra State -5 at 10:34 PM

Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in Maharashtra State

Kailashnath Temple, Ellora

Kailashnath Temple, also Kailash Temple or Kailasanath Temple is a famous temple, one of the 34 monasteries and temples, known collectively as the Ellora Caves, extending over more than 2 km, that were dug side by side in the wall of a high basalt cliff in the complex located at Ellora, Maharashtra, India. Of these 34 monasteries and temples, the Kailasa (cave 16) is a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture on account of its striking proportion; elaborate workmanship architectural content and sculptural ornamentation of rock-cut architecture.  It is designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva. It is a megalith carved out of one single rock. It was built in the 8th century by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I.
The Kailash Temple is notable for its vertical excavation—carvers started at the top of the original rock, and excavated downward. The traditional methods were rigidly followed by the master architect which could not have been achieved by excavating from the front.
It is estimated that about 400,000 tons of rocks was scooped out over hundreds of years to construct this monolithic structure.  From the chisel marks on walls of this temple, archeologists could conclude that three types of chisels were used to carve this temple.
All the carvings are done in more than one level. A two-storeyed gateway opens to reveal a U-shaped courtyard. The courtyard is edged by a columned arcade three stories high. The arcades are punctuated by huge sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of deities. Originally flying bridges of stone connected these galleries to central temple structures, but these have fallen.
Within the courtyard are two structures. As is traditional in Shiva temples, an image of the sacred bull Nandi fronts the central temple housing the lingam. In Cave 16, the Nandi Mandap and main Shiva temple are each about 7 metres high, and built on two storeys. The lower stories of the Nandi Mandap are both solid structures, decorated with elaborate illustrative carvings. The base of the temple has been carved to suggest that elephants are holding the structure aloft.
A living rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandap to the porch of the temple. The temple itself is tall pyramidic structure reminiscent of a South Indian temple. The shrine – complete with pillars, windows, inner and outer rooms, gathering halls, and an enormous lingam at its heart – carved from stone, is carved with niches, plasters, windows as well as images of deities, mithunas (erotic male and female figures) and other figures. Most of the deities at the left of the entrance are Shaivaite (followers of Lord Shiva) while on the right hand side the deities are Vaishnavaites (followers of Lord Vishnu).
There are two Dhwajasthambha (pillars with the flagstaff) in the courtyard. The grand sculpture of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with his full might is a landmark in Indian art.

 

Kalaram Temple, Nasik, Maharashtra

The Kalaram temple is an old Hindu shrine dedicated to lord Rama in the Panchavati area of Nasik city in Maharashtra, India. It is probably the most important Hindu shrine in the city. The temple derives its name from the statue of Lord Rama that is black. The literal translation of kalaram means black Rama. The sanctum sanctorum also houses the statues of goddess Sita and Lakshmana. Thousands of devotees visit it every day. The temple was funded by Sardar Rangarao Odhekar. It was built around in 1788. It was said that Odhekar had a dream that the statue of Rama in black colour is there in the river Godavari Odhekar took the status from river and built the temple and the place where status was found was named as Ramkund. –
The temple formed a pivotal role in Dalit movement in India. The famous Dr. Ambedkar once held a protest outside the temple for allowance of Dalits into the temple.
The main entrance has a Lord Hanuman idol which is black. There is also a very old tree that has Lord Dattatreya's footprint impressions marked on a stone. Pilgrims visit the Kapaleshwar Mahadev temple near Kalaram temple.
Authorised guides are available for reasonable price at Kalaram mandir who show around easily.

Transportation to Nasik

Roads

Nashik is on the intersection of 2 National Highways. The Mumbai - Agra Highway NH-3 and the Nashik - Pune Highway NH-50. Apart from these, other major cities like Aurangabad are connected via a state highway. Nashik is easily accessible by road from Gujarat state in western India. There are other numerous State Highways which offer very good road connectivity to Nashik.

Railways

Nashik has one train station which is Nashik Road which is around 10 km (6.2 mi) from the central area of the city. Also, there is a separate railhead at Deolali which serves the military cantonment area. It can be also used to travel to Nashik.
Nashik Road falls on the Mumbai - Manmad route of the Central Railways and over 50 trains make a stop here. Nashik is directly connected to various major cities in India like Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Nagpur, Kanpur, Guwahati etc. There are a few trains connecting Southern and Northern parts of India which travel via Nashik.

Airways

Nashik's Ozar Airport is located at a distance of 24 km (15 mi) from the city center. Kingfisher Airlines and Deccan Airways used to operate flights to Mumbai from a couple of years ago which were later taken off due to lack of passengers and will operate soon after upgradation to an airport with international standards. Nashik has another airport at Gandhinagar with a shorter runway and hence unfit for modern-day passenger aircraft. The government run Vayudoot used an operate a service to Mumbai from this Gandhinagar Airport during the 1980s. A new Passenger Terminal at Ozar is under construction. Also there is a cargo airport at ozar. A Military Airport is present in Deolali Cantonment.

 

Kaleshwar Temple, Nerur, Maharashtra

The Kaleshwar Temple in Nerur, India is devoted to the God Shri Kaleshwar, an Avatar of the God Shiva.
There is an ancient temple of Shri Kaleshwar in the Village Nerur, Dist. Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. Shri Kaleshwar is the Village Deity (Gramdevta) of all Nerurkars.

 NERUR is no exception. It is a village lying in the industrial Taluka of Kudal in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra.

The devoutly worshipped, God of the Nerurkars – their village deity or “Gram devata” – is Shri Kaleshwar fondly called as KALOBA by locals. It is the centre of total devotion and faith for every villager.

The Kaleshwar shrine is no modern discovery. Its foundation origin dates back to a period 700 – 800 years old. Legend goes that the area around the present shrine was a thick jungle. A cow belonging to a Brahmin residing in the nearby village used to deliver milk at a particular spot here. On having dug at the spot the Brahmin found a ‘Shivling’ – Shiva’s epitome there. Necessary ceremonies were performed and a shrine was founded at the spot.

The ‘Shivling’ appears in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The platform on which the “Shivling” is placed is square in shape. This platform is called as “Shalunka”. The Shalunka and the Shivling are black in colour and are not in one piece. It is noticed that the water offered on top of the Shivlinga does not gather on the platform and it is still a mystery as to where the water seeps down. The premises outside is enormous. At one end is a Ganesh idol carved of stone. At the other is the image of Karkotak Nag (Nagdevta). In front of the entrance is Nandi – Shiva’s ardent follower.

To enter the larger premise one has to bend through a small entrance, the belief being that one should bow before the creator. At the north end is the 5 storied chariots. Adjacent to it are the rooms for lodgings and shops during any festival.

The enormity of the area becomes evident when one visits the smaller temples around. They include Shri Brahmanath Temple ( it is the believed that this is the only temple after the known temple of God Brahma in Pushkar, Rajasthan), Shri Ravalnath Temple ( Ravalnath is the God who embodies Shiva in his very macho form – sharp vision, moustaches, and trident in hand) and Bhutnath. Temples of God Vetal (God of Demons) , God Gavdoba (Protector of the Village) Godess Sateri (Aadi Maya) and a few others.

The most awaited celebration at Kaleshwar Temple is the Maha Shivaratri Utsav. It is a five- day long celebration. There is a fair throughout. The idol of Kaleshwar is drawn in the chariot. A huge congregation from distant places gathers in frenzy. Religious rites are performed intensively to the resonance of the drum and shehnai.
Folk dramas (Dashavtar), Kirtans and Chanting of Mantras and Bhajans are the regular features during the festivals of Mahashivaratri Utsav. Special decorations of the Temples and the deity (Utsavmurti) are truly spectacular sights.

There are numerous other festivals celebrated in the Temple premises. One of them which has acquired prominence lately is the Ganesh Jayanti celebration during the month of Magh known as Maghi Ganesh Utsav.

Many other festivals are celebrated. Navratri Utsav is one such festival in which all Bhajan Groups from Nerur and other nearby Villages gather and perform in the Temple.

One can reach Nerur by train via Kudal Station (Kokan Railway) or by Road via Kudal Town (on Mumbai Goa Highway).

Settled in the Kokan region, Shri Kaleshwar - the Avatar of Shiva continues to be the motivating spirit for the Nerurkars

Nobody can challenge the Indian dependence and involvement with religion and tradition. The Hindus claim to have 32 crore deities above them. Yet, they have a staunch faith in an ancestral divine image. Every family and every village has its own ancestral and village deity respectively.

 

Khidkaleshwar Mandir, Maharashtra

The Khidkali temple or the Khidkaleshwar Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Dombivli, Maharashtra, India.^[1]
The present temple structure was probably built in the 17th century. Inside the main temple there are other ancient idols of Lord Ganeśa, Hanumān. The temple is situated on the banks of the Khiḍkali Lake. There are several small temples near-by: Dattātreya, Hanumān and other Gurūs. There is a small park inside the temple campus for children's recreation.
According to the legend, once when Pānḍavās visited this place during Araṇyavasām, Yudhiṣhṭhira wanted to perform Śiva pūja. So the Pānḍavās built this temple for Yudhiṣhṭhir‘s pūja.

About the Temple: The present temple structure was built in around 17 century. Inside the main temple there are other ancient idols of Lord Ganeśa, Hanumān. The temple is situated on the banks of the Khiḍkali Lake. There are several small temples near-by: Dattātreya, Hanumān and other Gurūs. There is a small park inside the temple campus for recreation of kids.

 

Koleshwar, Maharashtra

Shri Dev Koleshwar (देवनागरी: श्री देव कोळेश्वर) is an ancient Datta Temple located at Kolthare, a village from Dapoli Taluka of Ratnagiri District from Maharashtra state. 

Kopeshwar temple, Maharashtra

Kopeshwar Temple is at Khidrapur , Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. It is also acessible from Sangli. It was built by Silhara King Gandaraditya in the 12th century and then by Seuna Yadavas. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Structure

It has a vestibule with an open top. the sanctum is conical. The exterior has stunning carvings of deities and secular figures. Elephant statues sustain the weight of the temple at the base.

 

Kopineshwar Mandir, Thane

Kopineshwar Mandir is among the most revered patron temples in Thane city & is a must visit for any devotee/ tourist coming to Thane.

 Temple Complex

Located on the narrow but busy Bazaar Peth, Station Road, at the entrance gates, one is greeted by huge sized Nandi (Sacred Bull). The principal deity temple of Shiva has a 5 feet diameter by 5 feet tall Shiva Linga. Within the holy enclosure of the Kopineshwar temple are six small temple shrines dedicated to Brahma Dev, Rama, Maruti, Shitala Devi, Uttareshwar and Kalika Devi. Opposite to the shrine of Kalika Devi is another shrine dedicated to Gayatri Devi. Many of these shrine temples as still picturesque and still maintain the old red roof tile and wooden structure. The entire temple complex is quite & peaceful unlike the busy Thane station road surroundings.
As Thane is rightly known as the City of Lakes & as per Vaastu principles that the Canals, lakes, rivers are best if they are in north or east of the house/Temple - this ancient temple was also nestled on the banks of the Masunda Lake popularly known as Talao Pali. But a Municipal garden & road now running next to the Temple Complex reclaimed the land from the lake thus separating the lake.

Early history

The Silhara dynasty Kings who ruled Thane between 810 and 1240 AD were the devoted disciples of Lord Shiva & built the Kopineshwar Temple during their reign. It is popular belief that the temple has been built in the honour of Kopineshwar that was found under water.

Recent history

The temple reconstructed by the by Sarsubhedar Ramaji Mahadeo Bivalkar after Salsette was captured by the Marathas in approximately 1760. It was further repaired in 1879 by the Hindu community, at a cost of Rs. 8,000.

 

Kukdeshwar Temple, Maharashtra

Kukdeshwar Temple is located in Pune District of Maharashtra, India. It is about 15 km west of Junnar and lies on the banks of Kukdi River. It is a Shiv temple noted for its beautiful sculptures and carvings. The roof of this temple is in a dilapidated state. Chavand fort, also known as Prasannagad, is approximately 3 km from Kukdeshwar temple. Nearest Town is Narayangaon.

Temples in Narayagaon

Goddess 'Muktabai' (Muktaai) (मुक्ताबाई\मुक्ताई) is the Gram-Daivat (root deity) of Narayangaon. Muktabai Temple is situated on the bank of Meena river. It has recently undergone major renovation.
The yatra of Goddess Muktaai starts after the day of 'Varuthini Ekadashi'. This is one of the biggest yatra in Maharashtra state. People come from different parts of the state to enjoy this festival.
Lord Ram temple, was established in the era of Peshwas. It is situated at the heart of town. The temple was gifted to the Brahman Sangh in 1990's. It was later renovated, and became the pride of Narayangaon. The festival of Ramnavami is celebrated every year in temple. Hanuman temple is one of the oldest temple in town. Shambhu Mahadev temple is branch of Shikhar Shingnapur Mahadev temple.
Two of the Ashtavinayak Ganapatis are located nearby:

• Shri Girijatmaka of Lenyadri, situated nearly 17 km to the North-West
• Shri Vigneshwara of Ozar situated nearly 9 km to the North.

Ozar, the place of Shri Vighnahar Ganapati from Ashtavinayak is now most popular among Ashtavinayak places. VIP facilities are available for tourists coming to this and nearby places. New Bhaktabhavan was built having air conditioned suits with all lodging facilities.
Also a famous Lord Shiva temple named 'Kapardikeshwar' is in Otur, 15 km north to the Narayangaon. Lord Khandoba temple is situated near Wadaj, 12 km west from the town.

 

Madheshawari temple, Maharashtra

The temple of Madheshwari Devi was constructed by the Nimbalkars on the site of an old shrine.  Of the fort the wall on two sides and bastions at the four corners remain and the space is used to house the Backward Class boarding conducted by the Zilla Parishad. A yearly fair is held at the temple in honour of Madheshwari Devi or the Jagdamba on the full-moon day of Ashvina (September–October). About 2,500 people assemble at the time of the fair.

Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur

The Shri Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, is one of the Shakti Peethas listed in various puranas of Hinduism. According to these writings, a Shakti Peetha is a place associated with Shakti, the goddess of power. The Kolhapur Shakti Peetha is of special religious significance being one of the six places where it is believed that one can either obtain salvation from desires or have them fulfilled. The temple takes its name from Mahalakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, and it is believed that the divine couple reside in the area.
The temple belongs architecturally to the Kannada Chalukya empire and may have been first built in circa 700 AD. Mounted on a stone platform, the image of the four armed and crowned goddess is made of gemstone and weighs about 40 kilograms. The image of Mahalakshmi carved in black stone is 3 feet in height. The Shri Yantra is carved on one of the walls in the temple. A stone lion, the vahana of the goddess, stands behind the statue. The crown contains an image of the Sheshnag — the serpent of Vishnu. In Her four hands, the deity of Mahalakshmi holds objects of symbolic value. The lower right hand holds a mhalunga (a citrus fruit), in the upper right, a large mace (kaumodaki) with its head touching the ground, in the upper left a shield (khetaka), and in the lower left, a bowl (panpatra). Unlike most Hindu sacred images, which face north or east, the image of this deity looks west (Pashchim). There is a small open window on the western wall, through which the light of the setting sun falls on the face of the image for three days around the 21st of each March and September. There are a number of other shrines in the courtyard to the Navagrahas, Surya, Mahishasuramardini, Vitthal-Rakhmai, Shiva, Vishnu, Tulja Bhavani and others. Some of these images date back to the 11th century, while some are of recent origin. Also located in the courtyard is the temple tank Manikarnika Kund, on whose bank is a shrine to Visweshwar Mahadev.
Worship Structure: Five worship services are offered each day. The first one is at 5 am, and it involves the waking of the deity with a Kakada - torch, to the accompaniment of hymns. The second worship service at 8 am involves the offeirng of the Shodashopachara pooja consisting of 16 elements. The afternoon and evening services and the Shejaarati pooja constitute the three other services.
Special Events: A festival image of the deity is taken out in procession around the temple courtyard each Friday, and on full moon days.

Significance 

It is said that both Shri Lakshmi and Shri Vishnu reside in the Karveer area eternally and shall not leave even at the time of Mahaprayakala. This region is therefore also referred to as an avimuktakshetra. Karveer region is eternally blessed and is believed to be held by Mother Jagdambe in her right hand, and so this region is protected from all destruction. Lord Vishnu himself adores this region more than Vaikiuntha or the Kshirsagar since it is the home of his consort Lakshmi. According to popular legends, Mahalakshmi left Vaikuntha and arrived at Kolhapur on hearing that Lord Venkatesh (Vishnu) her beloved husband failed to take action against sage Bhrigu for his horrific behaviour towards him. An angry Mahalakshmi is said to have observed strict penance in Kolhapur for several years until upon hearing the news of her husband being married to Tirumala Padmavati, another avatar of Mahalaskhmi. The greatness of this region has therefore attracted many sages and devotees, the blessings and affections showered by this region on its devotees are immeasurable. It is believed that Prabhu Shri Dattatreya still comes here every noon to seek alms.
The statue of the Goddess Mahalakshmi is made of gemstone and is considered to be at least 5000 to 6000 years old. It weighs about 40 kilos. The precious stones that adorn the deity indicate the antiquity of the idol. The platform of the Goddess Mahalakshmi is made of stone. The statue of the Goddess has four arms. In the lower right hand she holds the matulinga, (a fruit similar to and ordinary lemon but much larger in size). In the upper right hand she holds large mace, kaumodaks, its head touching the ground. In the upper left hand she holds the shield or khetaka, and while in the lower one she holds a bowl, panpatra.
On the crown of the Goddess Mahalakshmi are a cobra-hood and a Shiva-ling with a Yoni around it. Standing behind is the Goddess' vahana-a lion. Almost all the idols of the God face the north or the east directions, whereas here the Idol faces the west. The small window on the western wall which is open. Once a year, the rays of the Sun during sunset falls on the face of the image through this window. This period lasts for three days, each time, the 21st, of the months of March and September. This period is considered extremely auspicious, the Devotees throng the temple on all the three evenings the temple for a glimpse of the beautiful image bathing in the golden rays of the setting sun.

Kirnotsav Celebrations

Kirnotsav in Mahalakshmi Temple Kolhapur (festival of Sun rays) is celebrated when the sun rays fall directly on the deity's Mahalakshmi idol at the time of sunset on the following days :
31 January & 9 November : Sun rays fall directly on the feet of the deity. 1 February & 10 November : Sun rays fall directly on the chest of the deity. 2 February & 11 November : Sun rays fall directly on the entire body of the deity.

Festival

It is not surprising that even the rays of a setting sun pay homage to Goddess Mahalakshmi as the life of human being revolves around illumination and prosperity. But it is the wonder of wise architects who built the temple of Mahalakshmi at kolhapur that the rays of the setting Sun, bow at the feet of the Goddess through a window, for a while before vanishing. This special event is celebrated by thousands of people as ‘KiranUtsav’. Every year this festival is celebrated on the following days at evening: 31 January 1 February 2 February 9 November 10 November 11 November
It is said that Sun god gives respect to Mahalaxmi for three days in a year. This will be on the occasion of RathaSaptami (which will be somewhere in January every year). This will be for 3 days. The first day, ray falls on the feet, on second day, on the middle portion of the deity and on the third day on the face. Its the architect's excellence, which is been done more than 1000years ago, can still be observed. Later during the time of Peshwas, the temple was repaired. Though, many invasions over this part of India has caused some damages of the beautiful idols, which are all around the temple.

History

The city is referred to in many Puranas, 500 years back. Research guesses that it was in existence in the times of Parashuram. The time is.considered parallel to that of Mata peeth (Mahurgad), Sapta Shringi (Nasik) and Bhavani Peetha, in the Ramayana times. Karveer washes off great sins. There are many ancient, rich temples, holy places and gardens.
There is evidence to show that the Konkan king Kamadeo, Chalukya, Shilahar, Yadav dynasties visited this city. Adya Shankaracharya also visited. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj & Sambhaji reigned. The idol of Mahalaxmi is made of jewel - stone, approximately weighing 40 kg. The size is like Salunki. Sand & diamond are found in it. It stands on a stony stage with a lion behind it. In the middle there is natural lotus. It is four-handed, having Vetak, shield, Mhalung & Water-Pot. There is crown on the head and a snake holds shade.
In 109 A. D. Karnadeo cut off the jungle and brought the temple to light. The existence goes back to 8 th century, according to Dr. Bhandarkar & Mr. Khare. In the 8 th century, the temple sank down due to earth­quake. In the 9 th century Gandavadix (King) extended the temple by building Mahakali Mandir. During 1178 -1209, in the reigo of Raja Jaysing & Sindhava, South gate & Atibaleshwar Temple were built. In 1218 Yadav king Tolum built Mahadwar, and offered jewels to Devi. Further, Shilahar built Maha Sarasvati Mandir. He being a gain, got 64 idols carved. It is possible that new idol called Padmavati was installed at that time. Further, in Chalukya times, Ganapati before the temple was installed. It seems that the original temple was of the Hindus. In the 13 th century, Shankaracharya built Nagar Khana & Office, Deepmalas.
During 1712 - 1792 (Sambhaje Reign) Narhar Bhat Shastree had a dream which he told to Sambhajee. In the Mogal reign, the worshippers had hidden the idol for protection. Believing Sangavakar's dream, Sambhajee started a search. This idol was found in a house in Kapil Teerth Market. According to Sambhaji's letter dated 8 Nov. 1723, Sindhoji Hindurao Ghorpade of Panhala installed the idol again on 26 Sept. 1712 (Monday, Ashwin Vijiya Dashami). The number of devotees grew, and in due course of time, the Devi became the Deity of Maharashtra. The idol began to denude due to Abhishekas. So Sankeshwar Shankaracharya got it repaired. After Vajralep & sacrifices, it was again installed at the hands of Kolhapur Shahajee Raje in 1954.In 1960, there was transformation under the supervision of Mr. Lohiya. As a result, the premises seemed extensive. There are 5 main temples and 7 Deepamalas now. Around are 35 small - big temples and 20 shops. There are 5 Hemad-style tops. Adjoining is Garud Mandap, built by Mr. Harshe.

Location

The Shri Mahalakshmi Temple is situated in the city Kolhapur in Maharashtra. Kolhapur is an important and significant city lying in the ancient Karveer region which is a treasure trove of ancient religious monuments in Western Maharashtra. Kolhapur is well connected by rail and road with the major cities of India. Trains ply between Kolhapur and Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi and other important cities of Maharashtra like Pune,Sangli, Miraj. The city is also well connected by a road network. Within the city public transport is conveniently available.

Transportation

Railway

Kolhapur railway station known as Chattrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus is connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Solapur, Nagpur, Tirupati, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Dhanbad through express trains. There are daily passenger shuttle services between Kolhapur and Miraj.

Road

Kolhapur is connected to Mumbai to the north and Bengaluru to the south by National Highway 4 which is further extended to Chennai. The city is one of the primary destinations on this highway and a major link city from NH-4 to Konkan and Goa. Kolhapur has three state transport bus stands namely Central Bus Stand (CBS), Rankala Bus Stand & Sambhajinagar Bus Stand.
Local mode of transport includes bus service by Kolhapur Municipal Transport (KMT) which covers all routes inside the city. For quick transport Auto Rikshaw is popular mode of transport.

Air

Main article: Kolhapur Airport

Kolhapur has a domestic airport at Ujalaiwadi, 9 km South-east from the city. Its sole regular service to Mumbai by Kingfisher Airlines ceased in November 2011 when the airline pulled out of several towns like Kolhapur due to its financial crisis

 

Mahalakshmi Temple, Mumbai

Mahalaxmi Temple (Marathi: महालक्ष्मी मंदिर) is one of the most famous temples of Mumbai situated on Bhulabhai Desai Road. It is dedicated to Mahalakshmi the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam. The temple was built in 1831 by Dhakji Dadaji (1760–1846), a Hindu merchant.

History

Built around 1785, the history of this temple is supposedly connected with the building of the Hornby Vellard. Apparently after portions of the sea wall of the Vellard collapsed twice, the chief engineer, a Pathare Prabhu, dreamt of a devi statue in the sea near Worli. A search recovered it, and he built a temple for it. After this, the work on the vellard could be completed without a hitch.

Inside

The temple contains images of the goddesses Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. All three images are adorned with nose rings, gold bangles and pearl necklaces. The image of Mahalakshmi is shown riding a tiger and a demon (Mahishasur) in tandem. The compound of this temple contains several stalls that sell flower garlands and other paraphernalia used by devotees for worship and as offering.

Navratri Festival

During Navaratri celebrations, devotees from distant places throng to the temple, which is decorated for this occasion, to pay obeisance. They have to stand for hours in long queues holding coconuts, flowers and sweets which they offer to the goddess.

 

Mahur, Maharashtra

Mahur or Mahurgad is a religious place in Maharashtra, India. Mahur is said to be the birthplace of Hindu Goddess Renuka, mother of Lord Parshuram. The three and half Shakti Peethas of Maharashtra are Tuljapur enshrining Bhavani, Kolhapur enshrining Mahalakshmi, Mahur enshrining Mahamaya, and Renuka and Saptshringi enshrining Jagadamba. Other Shakti temples in the state are those at Ambe Jogai and Aundh.
There are many temples in Mahur like Anusaya and Kalika temples. The most important one is the temple of Renuka Devi, which has a special place in the Hindu mythology. A big fair is held here every year on the occasion of Vijayadashami.
Mahur is said to be birthplace of God Dattatreya. Dattatreya was born to Goddess Anusaya. There is an ancient temple of Dattatreya. Every year on Datta Pornima thousands of people visit Mahur.

History

Mahur finds mention in the ancient Devi Bhagawatam as "Matripura", where it is mention as one of the famous pilgrimages. In Devi Gita the final and most important chapter of the text, it is mentioned as one the important places of Shakti worship:
"Devi spoke:... I am now telling something out of My affection to My Bhaktas... Matripura in the Sahyadri mountain; here the Devi Renuka dwells...
For Muslims it is famous for the Dargah of Baba SonaPir, who is also known as Mohar-e-Rasool (Stamp of Prophet). In every fifth of the month a Urs has been conducted in Dargaah. Many people come from different parts of country to celebrate this occasion.

Geography

All three important temples — Renuka Temple, Dattatreya Temple and Anusaya Temple — are built on three mountain ranges. Mahur is surrounded by jungles rich with trees and wild life. There is teakwood trees everywhere. Peacocks, deer, black bears, panthers are very common in the jungle.
On one of the mountains is the ancient Mahurgad Fort constructed in the 12th century. Mahur was an important fort in ancient Berar history. It became a separate province in 1478 during the Bahmani Sultanate. It was a one of the Sarkar (then district) with 20 parganas (towns) in Berar Subah (state) in Akbar's rule.

Attractions

The main attractions in Mahur are Renuka Temple, Dattatreya Temple, Anusaya Temple, Devdeveshwar Temple, Parshuram Temple, Sarvatirtha, Matru-Tirtha,Bhanutirth, Hati darvaza, Bal samudra, Pandav Leni, Mahurgad Fort, Mahakali Temple (In the fort), Mahur Museum, Sonapir Dargah, Shaikh Farid Water fall, Palace of Raje Udaram. (Raje Udaram Deshmukh and later his brave wife RaiBagan (Royal Tigress) were the last rulers of Mahur.)
People who visit Mahur also visit Unkeshwar (50 km from Mahur; 15 km from Kinwat), which has natural sources of hot water. This sulphur-rich water is supposed to have medicinal value.

Devdeveshwar Temple

Devdeveshwari mandir belongs to Mahanbhav Panth, casically called a nidra sthan (sleeping place) of Jagat Guru Shree Dattatreya Prabhu. It is at elevated outskirt of Mahur town, 2 km from Mahur bus stand.
Daily Shree Dattatreya Prabhu will take nitya snan (daily bath) at meruwada talao (tank) in Mahur, bhiksha (the meal served to a sadhu or Indian monk) at Kolhapur, bhojan (lunch) at Panchaleshwar and get back to sleep in Devdeveshwar mandir Mahur (nidra sthan of God Dattatreya Prabhu). Jagat Guru Shree Dattatreya swami is a chiranjiv avtar (Immortal) so it is believed that even today Shree Dattatreya swami comes to sleep here.akash wanjare shubham karpate

Travel facilities and Pilgrimage Amenities

There are Maharashtra state transport buses that go from Nanded, Kinwat or Pusad to Mahur. Kinwat and Nanded are on the rail network and trains from Mumbai make a stop here. There are daily flights from Mumbai to Nanded.
hadgaon also has bus and taxi transport going to Mahur. The Best way to approach Mahur is by Road. There are frequent buses from Pusad. All types (ST, Private) buses are available from Pusad.
Accommodation Facilities are available in Mahur city (7 km from Temple). All types of accommodation facilities are available like Lodges, Hotels, Govt Rest House. Foods served by local hotels, Dhabas (roadside eateries for the travelers) are of good quality but served fresh.
On auspicious occasions like Navaratris, Datta Pournima; Mahapuja is organised which is followed by Mahaprasad (Feast for the Pilgrims).

 

Mandhradevi, Maharashtra

Mandherdevi Kalubai temple is near Wai (Satara District, Maharashtra, India). Located on a hill 4,650 feet above sea level, the temple, some 20 km from Satara, overlooks the picturesque Purandar fort. Devotees attribute miraculous properties to a grove around the shrine. Local lore has it that the temple is more than 400 years old and was built during Shivaji's Maratha rule; no definite date on the construction is available.
The title of the land is in the name of Lord Mandeshwar and Kaleshwari Devi. Most of the year there is little tourist traffic. The nearest primary health centre is six kilometres away and a major hospital is at Satara town.
The idol of Kalubai sports two silver masks and silk finery. The masks are carried in a procession by members of the Gurav family, seen as the hereditary custodians of the shrine. Members of this family take turns to conduct rituals.

Kalubai Jatra pilgrimage

The temple is popular among Hindus who undertake the annual Kalubai Jatra pilgrimage over a ten-day period every January. The main event is a 24-hour-long festival on the day of the full moon that includes animal sacrifices to the demons of goddess whom she killed. The goddess is offered nivad of puran poli (a sweet) and curd rice. The religious event usually draws more than 300,000 devotees. The annual fair is in honour of Kaleshwari Devi, fondly called Kalubai by the faithful.

 

Marubai temple Matungam Maharashtra

Origin

Known since 1700 AD, Matunga was a cluster of villages, which later on were brought under a single governing umbrella by the ruling British. The area was called Marubai Tekdi Gaon, which is said was shortened to MaTunGa (Matunga). Marubai is the traditional Gaondevi (village Goddess) of Matunga whose small temple existed under a peepal tree at King's Circle.
The then British Government planned to develop Bombay (Mumbai). Under the provisions of the City of Bombay Improvement Act, 1898, certain lands situated within the Island of Bombay were required for public purpose namely the Matunga Road Scheme, now the road is known as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Road. So the authorities then decided to shift the Marubai temple from the Kings Circle peepal tree to a different location as it came in the way of the road building plan. However, they had to face tremendous opposition from the residents who feared they would invite the wrath of the Goddess if they shifted Her from Her original location.
The residents of the village then once again managed the new temple. In 1952 the Marubai Trust was formed under the Bombay Public Trust Act with Registration Number as “A2222(Mumbai)” .

Trustees

The trustees presently managing the temple are descendants of those families who are managing the temple for last centuries. The First Trustee Shri. Kashinath Bhikaji Gavand was appointed in the same year. He was the father of present Managing Trustee Shri. Anil Gavand. After death of Shri. Kashinath Gavand, Shri. Anil Gavand was appointed the Managing Trustee in 1987.

 

Maruti Temples, Maharashtra

1 Maruti or God Hanuman temples were established by Samarth Ramdas in Maharashtra, India in the 17th century, . The objective behind establishing these temples was to create awareness of fitness among the youth of Maharashtra so that they could participate in establishing the Maratha Empire started by Swami's student Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
These temples are located at the following locations

1.   Shahapur, near Karad (Established in 1644)

2.   Masur (Established in 1645)

3.   Chaphal Vir Maruti Temple, near Satara (Established in 1648)

4.   Chaphal Das Maruti Temple, near Satara (Established in 1648)

5.   Shinganwadi, near Satara (Established in 1649)

6.   Umbraj, near Masur (Established in 1649)

7.   Majgaon, near Satara (Established in 1649)

8.   Bahe, near Sangli (Established in 1651)

9.   Manapadale, near Kolhapur (Established in 1651)

10.                     Pargaon, near Panhala (Established in 1651)

11.                     Shirala (Established in 1654)

All the idols are originals from the 17th century whereas the temples have been renovated. The site can be visited from Pune/Mumbai in 2 days or in one day from Sangli, Satara, Kolhapur
Muktidham is a marble temple complex honouring various Hindu gods. It is a popular tourist attraction situated in the Nashik Road suburb of the city of Nashik in the western state of Maharashtra in India. It is privately operated through a trust and was built through a generous donation by the late Mr. J.D. Chauhan-Bytco, a local industrialist.^[1][2]

 Muktidham

It has replicas of 12 Jyotirlingas, which have been built as per dimension of original deities and have been sanctified by sending them to their respective pilgrimage centers. The temple is made with marble from Makrana in Rajastan, and by Rajastani sculptors. Unique to this temple are eighteen chapters of Geeta written on the walls. Apart from the replicas of all the twelve Jyotirlingas, there are also idols of all major Hindu Gods and Goddesses.^[1][2] Devotees prefer to visit Muktidham Temple during the period of a famous fair “Kumbh Mela”.

Nerul Balaji Temple, Maharashtra

 

At Nerul in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra there is a Balaji Temple atop a small hillock near the west side of the Nerul railway station. The main deity is Balaji, in addition Ganapathy, Anjaneyar in sitting (Yoga) posture, Narasimhar and Padmavathy Thayar. There is a sannathy for Ramanujar also. It is learnt that Ganapathy Sannathy in a Balaji temple is unusual as per the practice in South. This may be due to the stature of Ganapathy in Maharashtra. There is a Navagriha Sannathy also in an annexe opposite the temple. The temple also has Rajagopuram approximately 60 feet high. The temple maintains a chappal stand. They also maintain a garden opposite the temple and full of shade-giving trees. There are steps to reach the temple from both the side of the small hillocks. From the rear side of the temple, there is a beautiful view of the famous Palm Beach Road which connects Vashi with Belapur and goes via Nerul. One can also have a panoramic view of the Nerul node of Navi Mumbai including the sea, which is beyond Palm Beach Road.

 

Pal, Maharashtra 

Pal or Pali khandobachi  in Satara district
Pal(or pali) is a historical place and famous for shrine of Lord Khandoba who is reincarnation of Lord Shiva.it is situated 28 kilometres (17 mi) at south of satara. thousands of devotees visit this place to worship Lord Khandoba. In January there is an annual yatra, or pilgrimage. Thousands of devotees and priests come and worship Lord khandoba. During yatra,Lord shiva gets marriage with Mhalsadevi.
On the same day there is a rally in the village along with an elephant. The rally starts from the Main palace Devraj Dada's Wada (Home)of village which is on right bank of Tarali river. The chief of Pal MankariDevraj Dada Patil sits on the elephant and rally moves towards the Temple which is on left bank of river. The rally accompanied with lots of villagers and chief persons Karkhana The procession moves from the bed of river where there lots of pilgrims usually camp to see the rally and worship.
When the rally enters into the temple, the Chief person Devraj Dada Patil gets down from the elephant and enters the main shrine to Lord Khandoba. Lots of civic person also along with him. They worship Idols(masks)of Lord Khandoba and Mhalsadevi. Afterward the Chief person removes these idols from the temple and places them on the elephant.
All other civic person comes out from the temple and join the rally and head it. When the rally comes out of main big gate of Temple, lots of devotees and pilgrims showers bhandara and coconut chips on the elephant. .
Eventually the rally arrives at the marriage palace(called "Bahula"). The Chief person gets down from the elephant along with the idols of Lord Khandoba and Mhalasadevi. He enters into the "Bahula". By this time Lots of people are waiting for the wedding. The wedding takes place in the presence of large numbers of devotees and Mankaris and civic persons. After wedding rally returns to the main palace ("Wada")

 

 Panchavati, Nasik

Panchavati is a place of religious significance and a pilgrimage spot,^[1] near the city of Nashik in Maharashtra, western India. In Hindu theology and epic Ramayana, Panchavati was the place in the forest of Dandakaranya (Danda Kingdom), where Rama built his home along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman during their exile period.

Etymology

The name is derived from the Sanskrit pañca five vata Banyan Tree. The area of five Banyan trees is situated on the banks of River Godavari in Nasik, Maharashtra, India.

Overview

 It has been proposed to identify it with the modern Nasik, because Lakshmana cut off Surpanakha's nose (nasika) at Panchavati.

In Panchavati today, there are five trees marked, one of which is an Ashoka tree. There is also a cave here called Sita Gupha. Sita, Ram and Lakshman prayed here to Lord Shiva. The ancient Shivalinga still exists in the small temple in the cave and is visited by devotees.
According to Hindu legends and Ramayana Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, stayed in Panchavati during their Vanvasa period. The Laxman Rekha is located in Panchavati about a kilometre away from Sita Gupha. It was from here that Ravana abducted Goddess Sita. Today this area is a major pilgrimage and tourist attraction.
Panchavati has many temples like Kalaram Temple, Goraram Temple, Sita Gupha . There are also many temples in Tapovan which is very close to Panchavati.Panchavati is spread across 500 acres of land.
Its people are proud of its culture and its five thousand year old tradition. Festivals such as Ganesh Utsav, Gokul Ashtami and Rangpanchami are celebrated with full enthusiasm by the people.Previously it was under the rule of Ashish Padhye.
On auspicious occasions like Mahashivratri, Rangapanchami, Makar Sankranti people take baths in river Godavari at Ramkund which is considered to be one of the most important places in Indian theology. According to Hindu theology, it is believed to be the place where a few drops of 'amrut' fell while the kalash was carried to the devatas

 

Om Tat Sat

                                                        

(Continued...)                                                                                                                              

(My humble  salutations to the great devotees ,  wikisources  and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the collection )