Ambabai Temple Kolhapur: The Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur stands as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India and is revered as one of the vital three-and-a-half Shakti Peethas in Maharashtra. These Shakti Peetha temples collectively represent Goddess Shakti, also known as Sati or Parvati, the consort of Lord Mahadev.
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Known as Ambabai Mandir, the Mahalaxmi Shaktipeeth is an important pilgrimage site in India. Devotees pay homage to Mahalakshmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu, with a customary practice of visiting the Venkateswara temple in Tirumala (Balaji temple) and Mahalakshmi in Kolhapur, adhering to Hindu traditions. The Skanda Purana addresses Goddess Kolhapur Mahalakshmi as “Om Karveer Niwasini Namah” and “Om Sesha Vasuki Sansevyaya Namah.”
Ambabai of Kolhapur carries the status of the Kuldaiwat (Family God) for numerous families across India. The region was ruled by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj for an extended period.
Architecture of the Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple
Constructed during the Chalukya Empire, the temple is believed to have been initially built by Karnadeva around 700 AD. The Mahalakshmi idol, crafted from sandstone and weighing 40 kilograms, adorns a jeweled crown. Standing at 2 feet 9 inches tall, the goddess is accompanied by her stone-made vehicle, a lion. With four hands holding Mahalunga fruit, Kaumodaki (mace), a shield, and a Panpatra, the idol faces west, showcasing the architect’s excellence. The rays of the sun during specific days directly fall on the goddess, celebrated as Kironotsav from January 31st to February 2nd and November 9th to 11th.
The temple walls feature beautiful carvings of niches and flowers, including dancing nymphs known as yoginis. An upper temple above the Garbhagruha houses Lord Ganesha and a Shiva linga named Matulinga. The Sri Yantra, covered with glass for safety, is carved on a wall inside. The temple is surrounded by a pentagonal wall with four entrances.
Rang Mandap, Kurma Mandap, and Ganapati Chowk
- Rang Mandap: Hexagonal and divided into two parts, it serves as the location for the first toran (तोरण) and the Darshan Mandapa, providing the closest view of Goddess Mahalakshmi.
- Kurma Mandap: The second part of the temple, where Tirtha from Shankh is sprinkled on devotees. It is also known as Shankhatirtha Mandap.
- Ganapati Chowk: The third part features a temple of Lord Ganesha and an idol of Rishi Agasti with his wife Lopamudra.
Garud Mandapa and Other Additions
The outermost Garuda Mandap was added by Daji Pandit between 1838 and 1843. The temple area also includes Ghati Darwaza, smaller temples, and water tanks named Manikarnika and Kashi.
Daily Pooja Schedule and Festivals
The Mahalaxmi Temple follows a daily Pooja schedule, starting with the opening at 4 PM and concluding with the Shejarti at 10:30 PM. Notable festivals celebrated include Navratri, Lalita Panchami, Ashtami, and Navami, each marked by distinctive rituals and ceremonies. The Navratri festival witnesses cultural programs and a grand procession, attracting devotees in large numbers.
At The End
The Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur stands as a revered site, blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and spiritual importance. Devotees from far and wide visit to seek the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi, making it a cultural and religious hub in Maharashtra.