Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is one of the most famous and revered temples in the city of Mumbai, India. It is dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is also the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam, a Hindu scripture that celebrates the victory of the divine feminine over evil forces. The temple is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, offering a scenic and serene view to the devotees and visitors. In this blog, we will explore the history, architecture, religious rituals, and cultural significance of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai. Visit during Mumbai One day tour Package By cab
Table of Contents
History of Mahalaxmi Temple
The history of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is linked to the construction of the Hornby Vellard, a project that aimed to connect the seven islands of Bombay in the 18th century. The project faced many difficulties and delays due to the collapse of the sea wall. According to legend, a Hindu merchant named Dhakji Dadaji had a dream in which he saw a statue of Mahalaxmi in the sea near Worli. He searched for it and found it, and then built a temple for it in 1831. After this, the work on the Hornby Vellard was completed successfully. The temple is believed to have miraculous powers and blessings for those who worship there.
Architecture of Mahalaxmi Temple
The temple complex consists of three shrines dedicated to Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati, who are the three forms of the supreme goddess Shakti. The main shrine houses the image of Mahalaxmi, who is shown holding lotus flowers in her hands. The image is adorned with nose rings, gold bangles, and pearl necklaces.
The other two shrines contain the images of Mahakali and Mahasaraswati, who are also decorated with jewels and ornaments. The temple also has a 10.60 meters high wooden pole covered with silver sheets called Dhwajastambha, which is a symbol of victory and glory. The temple also has a stone lamp post called Deepmala, which is lit during festivals and special occasions.
Religious Rituals of Mahalaxmi Temple
The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day, especially during Navratri, a nine-day festival that celebrates the nine aspects of Mahalaxmi. During this festival, the temple is decorated with flowers, lights, and colors, and various rituals are performed such as Aarti (a ritual of waving lamps), Abhishek (a ritual of bathing the deity), Havan (a ritual of offering fire), and Bhog (a ritual of offering food).
The devotees also offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and money to the goddess as a sign of gratitude and devotion. Another auspicious occasion is when the sun rays fall on the deity for a few minutes during Chaitra (March-April) and Ashwin (September-October) months. This phenomenon is considered to be a blessing from Mahalaxmi.
Cultural Significance of Mahalaxmi Temple
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is not only a religious site but also a cultural landmark. It represents the faith and devotion of millions of people who seek prosperity and happiness from Mahalaxmi. It also showcases the beauty and diversity of Hindu art and architecture. The temple is a popular tourist attraction as well, as it offers a panoramic view of the sea and the city skyline. The temple also hosts various cultural events such as music concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is a sacred and spectacular site that deserves to be visited by anyone who wants to experience the spirituality and splendor of Mumbai.
Timing / How to Rich of Mahalaxmi Temple
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is one of the most famous and revered temples in the city of Mumbai, India. It is dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is also the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam, a Hindu scripture that celebrates the victory of the divine feminine over evil forces. The temple is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, offering a scenic and serene view to the devotees and visitors. In this blog, we will tell you about the timing and how to reach of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai.
Timing
The temple is open to visitors every day from early morning until late night. The temple timings are as follows:
- Monday to Sunday: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 3:15 AM to 12:00 AM
The temple also performs various rituals and ceremonies throughout the day. The main aarti (a ritual of waving lamps) timings are as follows:
- Morning aarti: 7:00 AM to 7:20 AM
- Evening aarti: 7:30 PM to 7:50 PM
The temple also hosts a grand Dhoop aarti at 6:30 PM, depending on the time of sunset, and Shej aarti at 10 PM before the gates close for the night. At 12 PM, the priests of the temple perform the Naivedya ritual by offering food and fruits to the deities.
The temple also celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as Navratri, Diwali, Holi, etc. During these festivals, the temple is decorated with flowers, lights, and colors, and various rituals are performed such as Aarti (a ritual of waving lamps), Abhishek (a ritual of bathing the deity), Havan (a ritual of offering fire), and Bhog (a ritual of offering food). The devotees also offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and money to the goddess as a sign of gratitude and devotion.
How to Reach
The temple is easily accessible by various modes of transport. The nearest airport to the temple is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is about 20 km away from the temple. You can take a cab or a bus from the airport to reach the temple.
The nearest railway station to the temple is the Mahalaxmi Railway Station, which is about 1 km away from the temple. You can walk or take a rickshaw from the station to reach the temple.
The nearest bus stop to the temple is Mahalaxmi Mandir Bus Stop, which is about 100 meters away from the temple. You can take buses from various parts of Mumbai to reach this bus stop.
You can also take taxis or rickshaws from anywhere in Mumbai to reach the temple.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the spirituality and splendor of Mumbai. It is a place where you can seek blessings from Mahalaxmi and enjoy the beauty and charm of Mumbai.
Things to do / Must see / Other tourist attractions near Mahalaxmi temple
Mahalaxmi temple is one of the most famous and revered temples in Mumbai, dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, offering a scenic and serene view to the devotees and visitors. But apart from visiting the temple, there are many other things to do and places to see near Mahalaxmi temple that will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. In this blog, we will tell you about some of the things to do, must see, and near other tourist attractions near Mahalaxmi temple.
Things to do Mahalaxmi temple
If you are looking for some fun and exciting activities near Mahalaxmi temple, here are some of the things you can do:
- Visit Mahalaxmi Racecourse: If you love horse racing or just want to experience the thrill of watching a race, you can visit Mahalaxmi Racecourse, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious racecourses in India. The racecourse hosts various races throughout the year, especially during the winter season from November to February. You can also enjoy the lush green lawns, the grandstand, and the restaurants at the racecourse.
- Try Coffee at Blue Tokai Coffee: If you are a coffee lover or just want to relax and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee, you can try Blue Tokai Coffee, which is a popular coffee roastery and cafe near Mahalaxmi temple. The cafe offers various types of coffee beans sourced from different regions of India and roasted on-site. You can also try their delicious snacks, cakes, and pastries along with your coffee.
- Visit Dhobi Ghat: If you want to witness a unique and fascinating sight of Mumbai’s culture and lifestyle, you can visit Dhobi Ghat, which is a large open-air laundry where hundreds of washermen (dhobis) wash clothes from all over the city. The dhobis use concrete wash pens, flogging stones, and ironing boards to wash, dry, and iron the clothes. You can also take a guided tour of Dhobi Ghat and learn more about its history and significance.
Must see near Mahalaxmi temple
If you are looking for some amazing and beautiful places to see near Mahalaxmi temple, here are some of the must-see attractions:
- Visit Mahalaxmi Temple: Of course, you cannot miss visiting Mahalaxmi temple itself, which is one of the most sacred and popular temples in Mumbai. The temple houses the images of Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati, who are the three forms of the supreme goddess Shakti. The images are adorned with nose rings, gold bangles, and pearl necklaces. The temple also performs various rituals and ceremonies throughout the day. The best time to visit the temple is during Navratri, a nine-day festival that celebrates the nine aspects of Mahalaxmi.
- Visit Haji Ali Mosque: If you want to see a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture and a place of worship for Muslims, you can visit Haji Ali Mosque, which is a 15th-century mosque and tomb located on an islet off the coast of Worli. The mosque is dedicated to Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a wealthy merchant who renounced his worldly possessions and went on a pilgrimage to Mecca. The mosque is accessible by a narrow causeway that gets submerged during high tide. The mosque also offers a panoramic view of the sea and the city skyline.
- Visit St. Ignatius Church: If you want to see a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and a place of worship for Christians, you can visit St. Ignatius Church, which is a 19th-century church located near Jacob Circle. The church is dedicated to St. Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). The church has a magnificent facade with twin spires and stained glass windows. The church also has a spacious interior with an altar, a pulpit, and an organ.
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Historical Background of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is not only a sacred site but also a historical landmark. It has witnessed the changes and developments of Mumbai over the centuries. It has also played a role in shaping the history and culture of the city. In this blog, we will trace the ancient origins, the transition and transformation, and the role of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai in Mumbai’s history and development.
Ancient Origins of Mahalaxmi temple
The origin of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai dates back to the 18th century CE, but the legend behind it goes even further. According to the legend, during the Muslim invasion of India, some Hindu devotees immersed the idols of Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati in the sea near Worli to protect them from destruction. The idols remained hidden in the sea for a long time until they were rediscovered by a Hindu merchant named Dhakji Dadaji in 1831. He had a dream in which he saw the location of the idols and decided to search for them. He found them and built a temple for them on the shore of the Arabian Sea.
Transition and Transformation of Mahalaxmi temple
The temple that Dhakji Dadaji built was a simple structure made of wood and stone. It was later renovated and expanded by various patrons and trustees over the years. The temple complex was enlarged to include three shrines for the three goddesses, a wooden flag pole covered with silver sheets, a stone lamp post, and a spacious hall for devotees. The temple also acquired more ornaments and decorations such as gold bangles, pearl necklaces, nose rings, silver thrones, and carved doors. The temple also underwent several repairs and restorations due to natural calamities such as floods, storms, and earthquakes.
Role in Mumbai’s History and Development of Mahalaxmi temple
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai has been a part of Mumbai’s history and development since its inception. It is said that the temple helped in the completion of the Hornby Vellard, a project that aimed to connect the seven islands of Bombay in the late 18th century. The project faced many obstacles due to the strong sea waves that washed away the sea wall. However, after the temple was built, the sea wall remained intact and the project was successful.
The temple also contributed to the growth and prosperity of Mumbai by attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over India and abroad. The temple also hosted various cultural events such as music concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions that showcased the rich heritage and diversity of Mumbai.
Architectural Marvel of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is not only a sacred site but also an architectural marvel. It showcases the traditional Indian style of temple architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures. It also has some unique architectural features that make it stand out among other temples. In this blog, we will describe the temple’s structure and layout, the intricate carvings and sculptures, and the unique architectural features of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai.
Structure and Layout of Mahalaxmi temple
The temple complex consists of three shrines dedicated to Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati, who are the three forms of the supreme goddess Shakti. The main shrine houses the image of Mahalaxmi, who is shown holding lotus flowers in her hands. The image is adorned with nose rings, gold bangles, and pearl necklaces. The other two shrines contain the images of Mahakali and Mahasaraswati, who are also decorated with jewels and ornaments.
The temple also has a 10.60 meters high wooden pole covered with silver sheets called Dhwajastambha, which is a symbol of victory and glory. The temple also has a stone lamp post called Deepmala, which is lit during festivals and special occasions.
The temple complex has a spacious hall for devotees called Sabha Mandapa, which is spread over 100 square meters and has 27 ornamented spires to support it. The hall has a silver-covered lion that faces the deities and wooden idols of Jay-Vijay at the entrance of the sanctum called Gabhara. The sanctum houses the thrones of the deities, which are also covered in silver and adorned with intricate carvings.
Intricate Carvings and Sculptures of Mahalaxmi temple
The temple is embellished with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology and culture. The entrance gate of the temple is carved with floral and geometric patterns that create a stunning impression. The Dhwajastambha and the Deepmala are also carved with elaborate designs that add to the beauty of the temple.
The idols of the deities are sculpted with fine details and expressions that reflect their attributes and personalities. The thrones of the deities are also carved with motifs such as lotus flowers, peacocks, elephants, lions, etc.. The walls and pillars of the temple are also decorated with carvings of gods, goddesses, animals, birds, etc.
Unique Architectural Features of Mahalaxmi temple
The temple has some unique architectural features that make it different from other temples. One of them is the phenomenon of sun rays falling on the deities for a few minutes during Chaitra (March-April) and Ashwin (September-October) months. This phenomenon is considered to be a blessing from Mahalaxmi and attracts many devotees who witness this spectacle.
Another feature is the location of the temple on the shores of the Arabian Sea, which offers a scenic and serene view to the visitors. The temple also has a panoramic view of the city skyline and the sea bridge that connects Worli and Bandra.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is an architectural marvel that deserves to be admired by anyone who appreciates art and culture. It is a testament to the skill and devotion of the people who built it and maintained it over the centuries.
Religious Significance of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is not only an architectural marvel but also a religious significance. It is dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is also the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam, a Hindu scripture that celebrates the victory of the divine feminine over evil forces. The temple also worships Mahakali, the goddess of power and destruction, and Mahasaraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts.
The temple is connected to Hindu mythology and legends and hosts various festival celebrations and rituals. In this blog, we will explore the worship of the goddess Mahalaxmi, the connection to Hindu mythology and legends, and the festival celebrations and rituals of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai.
Worship of the Goddess Mahalaxmi
The goddess Mahalaxmi is revered as the source of all wealth and prosperity in Hinduism. She is also considered as the consort of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. She is depicted as a beautiful woman with four arms, holding lotus flowers in her hands. She wears gold ornaments and a red saree. She is seated on a lotus throne or a lion. She bestows her blessings on those who worship her with devotion and gratitude.
The temple contains an image of Mahalaxmi in the main shrine, which is adorned with nose rings, gold bangles, and pearl necklaces. The image is believed to have miraculous powers and grants the wishes of the devotees. The devotees offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and money to the goddess as a sign of gratitude and devotion. They also perform various rituals such as Aarti (a ritual of waving lamps), Abhishek (a ritual of bathing the deity), Havan (a ritual of offering fire), and Bhog (a ritual of offering food).
Connection to Hindu Mythology and Legends
The temple is connected to various Hindu mythology and legends that explain its origin and significance. One legend says that during the Muslim invasion of India, some Hindu devotees immersed the idols of Mahalaxmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati in the sea near Worli to protect them from destruction.
The idols remained hidden in the sea for a long time until they were rediscovered by a Hindu merchant named Dhakji Dadaji in 1831. He had a dream in which he saw the location of the idols and decided to search for them. He found them and built a temple for them on the shore of the Arabian Sea.
Another legend says that the temple helped in the completion of the Hornby Vellard, a project that aimed to connect the seven islands of Bombay in the late 18th century. The project faced many obstacles due to the strong sea waves that washed away the sea wall. However, after the temple was built, the sea wall remained intact and the project was successful.
Festival Celebrations and Rituals
The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day, especially during Navratri, a nine-day festival that celebrates the nine aspects of Mahalaxmi. During this festival, the temple is decorated with flowers, lights, and colors, and various rituals are performed such as Aarti (a ritual of waving lamps), Abhishek (a ritual of bathing the deity), Havan (a ritual of offering fire), and Bhog (a ritual of offering food). The devotees also offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and money to the goddess as a sign of gratitude and devotion.
Another auspicious occasion is when the sun rays fall on the deity for a few minutes during Chaitra (March-April) and Ashwin (September-October) months. This phenomenon is considered to be a blessing from Mahalaxmi and attracts many devotees who witness this spectacle.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is a religious significance that deserves to be visited by anyone who wants to experience the spirituality and splendor of Mumbai.
Cultural Heritage of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is not only a religious significance but also a cultural heritage. It is a symbol of the faith and devotion of millions of people who seek prosperity and happiness from Mahalaxmi. It also showcases the beauty and diversity of Hindu art and architecture. The temple has influenced the local customs and traditions, impacted the surrounding community, and contributed to Mumbai’s cultural identity. In this blog, we will explore the influence on local customs and traditions, the impact on the surrounding community, and the contribution to Mumbai’s cultural identity of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai.
Influence on Local Customs and Traditions
The temple has influenced the local customs and traditions of Mumbai in various ways. The temple is a center of worship and celebration for many festivals such as Navratri, Diwali, Holi, etc. The devotees follow various rituals such as Aarti (a ritual of waving lamps), Abhishek (a ritual of bathing the deity), Havan (a ritual of offering fire), and Bhog (a ritual of offering food) to honor the goddess Mahalaxmi. The devotees also offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and money to the goddess as a sign of gratitude and devotion. The temple also hosts various cultural events such as music concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions that showcase the rich heritage and diversity of Mumbai.
The temple also influences the local cuisine and handicrafts of Mumbai. The temple is famous for its prasad (sacred food) such as modak (sweet dumplings), peda (milk fudge), laddu (sweet balls), etc. The temple also sells various items such as flower garlands, incense sticks, lamps, idols, etc. that are made by local artisans and vendors.
Impact on the Surrounding Community
The temple has impacted the surrounding community in various ways. The temple is a source of livelihood for many people who work as priests, caretakers, vendors, artisans, etc. The temple also provides various social services such as scholarships to poor students, financial assistance to needy patients, and donations to educational, religious, and medical institutions in Maharashtra. The temple also promotes harmony and peace among different communities and religions by welcoming everyone irrespective of their caste, creed, or gender.
The temple also contributes to the growth and prosperity of Mumbai by attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over India and abroad. The temple is a popular tourist attraction as it offers a panoramic view of the sea and the city skyline. The temple also enhances the beauty and charm of Mumbai by adding to its architectural and cultural landscape.
Contribution to Mumbai’s Cultural Identity
The temple contributes to Mumbai’s cultural identity by representing its spirit and values. The temple is a symbol of Mumbai’s resilience and courage as it has survived many natural calamities such as floods, storms, and earthquakes. The temple is also a symbol of Mumbai’s diversity and inclusiveness as it welcomes people from different backgrounds and beliefs. The temple is also a symbol of Mumbai’s innovation and creativity as it showcases the skill and talent of its artists and architects.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is a cultural heritage that deserves to be cherished by anyone who loves Mumbai. It is a testament to the faith and devotion of its people and their love for their city.
FAQ’s
Q: Can I visit Mahalaxmi Temple in Mumbai?
A: Yes, you can visit Mahalaxmi Temple in Mumbai any day of the week from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM (except on Tuesdays when it opens at 3:15 AM). The temple is open to all visitors irrespective of their caste, creed, or gender. You do not need to pay any entry fee to visit the temple.
Q: Which temple is near to Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai?
A: There are several temples near to Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai, such as Haji Ali Mosque, Shree Swayambhu Patali Hanuman Mandir, Shree Swami Narayan Temple, etc. You can also visit other religious places such as St. Ignatius Church, Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple, etc.
Q: Why Mahalaxmi Temple is famous in Mumbai?
A: Mahalaxmi Temple is famous in Mumbai because it is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the city. It is dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is also the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam, a Hindu scripture that celebrates the victory of the divine feminine over evil forces. The temple is also famous for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance.
Q: What is the entry fee of Mahalakshmi Temple Mumbai?
A: There is no entry fee for visiting Mahalakshmi Temple Mumbai. You can enter the temple for free and offer your prayers and offerings to the goddess. However, if you want to perform any special puja or ritual, you may need to buy a ticket from the temple counter.
Q: What is the story behind Mahalaxmi?
A: There are various stories behind Mahalaxmi, but one of the most popular ones is related to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) episode in Hindu mythology. According to this story, when the gods and demons were churning the ocean for obtaining the nectar of immortality, many divine objects and beings emerged from the ocean. One of them was Mahalaxmi, who emerged as a beautiful woman holding a lotus flower in her hand. She was the goddess of wealth and prosperity and was sought by both gods and demons. However, she chose Lord Vishnu as her consort and became his wife
Conclusion
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is more than just a temple. It is a historical, cultural, and religious landmark that showcases the faith and devotion of millions of people who seek prosperity and happiness from Mahalaxmi. It is also a place where you can witness the beauty and diversity of Hindu art and architecture. The temple has influenced the local customs and traditions, impacted the surrounding community, and contributed to Mumbai’s cultural identity.
The temple has also survived many natural calamities and challenges over the centuries, proving its resilience and courage. The temple has also welcomed people from different backgrounds and beliefs, promoting harmony and peace among them. The temple has also inspired innovation and creativity among its artists and architects.
Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai is an enduring legacy that deserves to be cherished by anyone who loves Mumbai. It is a place where you can seek blessings from Mahalaxmi and enjoy the beauty and charm of Mumbai. We encourage you to visit and experience the divine ambiance of Mahalaxmi Temple Mumbai yourself. You will surely feel the presence of the goddess and her grace in your life.
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