Shri Renuka Mata Devi Temple, Mahur,Darshan Information

Shri Renuka Mata Devi Temple, Mahur

26 Jan

Posted By admin 0 Comment(s) 4018 View(s) Traveling , Temples

An ascend of around 250 stone cut steps on the Sahyadri ranges, with the breath taking view of Mahur sprawling beneath, surrounded by caves is the temple of Renuka Devi. The temple is a Shaktipeeth and is considered the birthplace of Renuka, mother of the great Parashurama. It is believed that a Yadava King of Devgiri had constructed it about 800-900 years ago

Location Maharashtra, Nanded, Mumbai

Legend

In the scuffle that ensued between King Sahastrarjuna and Sage Jamadagni over latter's cow Kamadhenu, the sage died and his wife Renuka suffered wounds. Parashurama, their son cremated his father and Renuka committed Sati. A voice from the heavens told the grief stricken Parashurama that his mother would come out of earth but he should not look behind. Not able to contain his eagerness, Parashuram turned and Renuka stopped with just her head out. She continued to resided there as Mother Goddess to her devotees.

Another legend says that Renuka was decapitated by Parashurama on the orders of his father and the temple is where her head fell. She was later brought back to life by Sage Jamadagni as a boon to his son, Parashurama.

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

Architecture

Renuka devi Temple is located on a hill top with caves around it. Nearly 200-250 steps must be climbed to reach the temple. There are shrines of Lord Parashuram and Lord Dattatreya in the vicinity. Renukadevi is adorned with various gold ornaments such as the golden flower earrings, gold garlands, nose-ring etc.

Pic courtesy: www.tourmet.com

Culture

Mahur is a very religious place with many temples in its surroundings. The place is enveloped by jungles rich with teakwood trees and wild life. Mahur was an important fort of the Berar history