Shri Mahalakshmi Shakti Peeth – The Radiant Eyes of the Goddess in Kolhapur
🕉 Introduction
The Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is not only a major pilgrimage site but also holds deep spiritual importance as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Here, according to sacred lore, the eyes of Goddess Sati fell, consecrating the temple as Sarvashail Shakti Peeth.
The temple is home to Goddess Mahalakshmi, also known as Ambabai, and is celebrated as a place of immense prosperity, strength, and feminine power. It is believed that even Lord Vishnu comes here to meet his consort on Fridays — a day when the temple sees extraordinary devotional fervor.
📜 Mythological Significance
The ancient legend of Sati’s self-immolation and Shiva’s grief forms the basis of all Shakti Peethas. When Sati’s eyes fell at Sarvashail (Kolhapur), the region became radiant with the Goddess’s divine vision.
- Shakti Name: Mahalakshmi / Ambabai
- Bhairava: Krodhish Bhairava
- Body Part: Eyes
The Goddess is revered as the bestower of wealth, sight, insight, and cosmic order. She is one of the few Shakti Peethas where the Goddess is enshrined in a standing posture, facing west, which is unique.
📜 Historical Timeline
- 7th Century CE: Initial temple structure is believed to have been constructed by the Chalukyas.
- 9th Century: Major development under the Silhara dynasty of Kolhapur.
- 12th Century: Further expansion during the Yadava dynasty period.
- 18th Century: Renovations and regular rituals revived under the Maratha rule.
- 1941 Onwards: Recognized as a significant cultural and religious heritage site of India.
- Today: Fully maintained by a public trust and the State Government, with thousands visiting daily.
🛕 Temple Overview
- Architecture: Hemadpanthi style with black stone structure, beautifully carved pillars, and intricate ceilings
- Main Idol: 3-feet tall idol of Mahalakshmi, adorned with diamonds, gemstones, and gold
- Temple Complex: Includes shrines for Mahasaraswati, Mahakali, Ganapati, and Navagraha
✨ Rituals and Festivals
- Daily Poojas: Kakad Aarti, Naivedya, and Shej Aarti
- Fridays: Special rituals with vibrant floral decorations and deepa aarti
- Annual Celebrations:
- Kirnotsav (Sun Festival): Sunlight falls on the Goddess’s idol directly on specific days in January and November
- Navratri: Grand celebrations with cultural programs and processions
📍 Location & Access
📌 Address:
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, New Shahupuri, Kolhapur, Maharashtra – 416002
✈️ By Air:
- Kolhapur Airport (KLH) – 10 km from the temple
- Direct flights from Mumbai, Bengaluru
🚉 By Train:
- Kolhapur Railway Station (KOP) – 5 km away
- Well-connected to Pune, Mumbai, Goa, and Karnataka
🚌 By Road:
- Regular buses from Mumbai, Pune, Sangli, and Goa
- Taxis and autos widely available
🏨 Accommodation Options
- Sayaji Hotel, Kolhapur – 5-star modern comfort
- Hotel Maratha Regency – Near railway station, mid-range
- Citrus Hotel Kolhapur – Business-class rooms with good food
- Hotel Classic Mid Town – Budget-friendly and central
- Vrishali Executive Hotel – Rooftop dining and luxury stay
- Hotel 3 Leaves – Popular with temple pilgrims
- K Tree Hotel – Boutique stay, very close to temple
- Hotel Pearl – Spacious rooms, family friendly
- Yatri Niwas (MTDC) – Managed by government, affordable
- Bhakta Niwas – Tidy and spiritual accommodations near temple
🩺 Medical Services Nearby
- Chhatrapati Pramila Raje Hospital (CPR Hospital) – Government multispecialty
- Lotus Hospital & ICU
- Sanjeevan Hospital
- Walk-in chemist stores near the temple gates
🛐 FAQ
- Which part of Sati fell here?
Her eyes. - Who are the deities worshipped?
Mahalakshmi (Ambabai) and Krodhish Bhairava. - Where is the temple located?
In Kolhapur city, Maharashtra. - What is the architectural style?
Hemadpanthi, with intricate stone carvings. - Is the temple crowded?
Daily, yes — especially Fridays and festivals. - What should I wear?
Traditional Indian attire is preferred. Saree/salwar for women, dhoti/kurta for men. - Are there rituals I can participate in?
Yes – archana, pradakshina, and offerings are allowed. - Best time to visit?
Navratri, Kirnotsav, and post-monsoon months. - Are guides available?
Local priests and temple trust personnel offer assistance. Audio guides available at counters. - What languages are spoken here?
Marathi, Hindi, English - Is the temple open to all?
Yes. No restriction based on religion, caste, or nationality. - Is the area elder and differently-abled friendly?
Yes. Wheelchair access and ramps available. - Nearby attractions?
- Rankala Lake
- New Palace Museum
- Jyotiba Temple
- Panhala Fort
- Living spiritual personalities?
Several local saints and Vaishnavite gurus are associated, but no resident figure.
🎒 Travel Tips
- Carry simple, light luggage
- Footwear is not allowed inside; keep slippers in temple-managed counters
- Women may prefer covering heads during aarti
- Stay hydrated — Kolhapur can get hot in summer
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