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
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