Kolhapur rooted in Maratha history, is mentioned in scriptural records as the place where Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi Devi would reside eternally. Here, personifying grace and charm, stands the Mahalakshmi temple. This architecturally magnificent shrine is believed to have been  built in the 7th century by Chalukya empire. King Gandaraditya, of the Shilahara Dynasty, is said to have completed the construction of Kolhapur temple in 11th century.For a period after that, the idol of Goddess was moved and the temple was stopped worshipping at. It was restored in the year 1715 after the Marathas rose to power. They also renovated the shrine.

Location Maharashtra, Kolhapur, Mumbai

Legend

Legend has it that Kolhasura, a demon who tortured the Gods and sages, was vanquished by Mahalakshmi and that she took abode in a shrine which then became the temple. Goddess Mahalakshmi is said to have observed strict penance here in Kolhapur.

This temple is part of the famous Shaktipeethas.and Sade Theen Shakthipeet Darshan Yatra.

Architecture

The Mahalakshmi Temple epitomises architectural style known as 'Hemandpanthi' in ancient India.  Carvings and sculptures adorn the temple walls. The temple complex consists of five towers and a main hall. The idol of Mahalaxmi is a monolithic stone structure embedded with precious stones and diamonds. The  sanctorum has an upper temple that houses an icon of Ganapati. A Matulinga was installed during the Yadava Period in 12th century but it is carved on the crown of Goddess  and remains covered. The deepamaalas and the Garuda mandap with square pillars are examples of the construction of the Maratha empire. Twice during a year, three days in January and November, the rays of the setting sun falls on the deity, a wonder phenomenon of the nature in conjunction with the creative genius of the architects.

Picture courtesy: RD's photoblog

Culture

Kolhapur, the historic Maratha city is famous for its temples and palaces. Known as Dakshin Kashi, Kolhapur, with its archeological and cultural heritage, is noted for Kolhapur chappal and jaggery. Kolhapur residents celebrate festivals like Diwali, Navratri etc are celebrated with huge pomp and splendour.

Darsan Info

Mahalakshmi Temple timings : 5.00 AM to 10.30 PM

There are separate queues for men and women. It is believed that the worship gets completed if you visit Mahalakshmi temple after worshipping Tirupati Balaji temple.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire while visiting Mahalakshmi Temple.

Famous Festival

February -Kiranotsav (Jan-31, Feb-1, Feb-2)

April - Rathotsav(Chariot Festival)

October - Navratri

November - Kiranotsav (Nov-9,10,11), Kartik Purnima(Nov/Dec)

Temple Rituals

Temple priests perform rituals like Padhyapooja, aarti, alankaar puja etc. Devotees are allowed to perform Kumkumarchan to the Goddess at Mahalakshmi Temple.

Special Rituals

At Mahalakshmi Temple , every Friday, at 9:30 PM, there is a palanquin procession of the Devi.

Additional Info

 

Gandhar hotel

Kamat restaurant

Phadatare Misal Kendra

 

  Supermarket : Available