9 Temples Famous In Maharashtra With Interesting Facts

 

Maharashtra, a state in western India, is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. One of the most significant aspects of this heritage is its temples, which attract a large number of visitors every year. Here are nine famous temples in Maharashtra that are a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the state’s religious and architectural treasures.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple :

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is one of the most famous and significant pilgrimage sites in India. Located in the town of Shirdi in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, this temple is dedicated to the revered saint Sai Baba. Sai Baba lived and taught in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is considered by many to be a saint with miraculous powers.

The temple complex includes a shrine, a museum, and a library. The main shrine houses a life-size statue of Sai Baba, which is believed to have been created during his lifetime. The statue is adorned with robes and ornaments and is surrounded by oil lamps and flowers.

Devotees from all over the world visit the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple to seek the saint’s blessings and to offer prayers and offerings. The temple is open to people of all religions and is known for its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

Apart from the main shrine, the temple complex also includes other important sites such as the Dwarkamai Mosque, where Sai Baba lived for many years, and the Chavadi, where he used to sleep. The museum displays various items associated with Sai Baba’s life and teachings, such as his sandals, his clothes, and a few utensils.

The temple is open throughout the year and is busiest during the festivals of Guru Purnima and Sai Baba’s death anniversary. During these times, the temple town of Shirdi becomes crowded with devotees, and special events and ceremonies are held to mark the occasion.

Overall, the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in spirituality, religion, and Indian culture. The temple’s peaceful ambiance, beautiful architecture, and association with the revered saint Sai Baba make it a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Mumbai Siddhivinayak Temple :

Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, located in the Prabhadevi area of Mumbai. The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Indian and contemporary styles, with a magnificent entrance adorned with a towering statue of Lord Ganesha.

The temple is believed to have been established in the 18th century and has since become one of the most popular and revered temples in Mumbai. It is believed that the temple’s presiding deity, Lord Siddhivinayak, is a wish-fulfilling deity, and many devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for their personal and professional aspirations.

The temple also has a rich history and has witnessed several significant events over the years. It is said that the temple was once visited by the freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who started the tradition of celebrating the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in public.

Every year, millions of devotees from across the country and the world visit the Siddhivinayak Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The temple’s serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and the divine presence of Lord Ganesha make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Mumbai.

Trimbakeshwar Temple:

Trimbakeshwar Temple is a highly revered Hindu temple located in the town of Trimbak, in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is considered a highly significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

The temple is situated on the banks of the Godavari River, and its architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles. It is believed that the temple was constructed in the 18th century by the Maratha ruler, Peshwa Nanasaheb.

The temple is famous for its unique feature of three lingas, representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahesh (Shiva), which are located in the inner sanctum. The lingas are said to be self-manifested and are considered highly sacred by devotees.

The Trimbakeshwar Temple is also famous for its association with the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest and most significant religious gatherings in the world. The Kumbh Mela is held every twelve years in Trimbak, and millions of pilgrims from across India and the world gather here to take a holy dip in the Godavari River.

The Trimbakeshwar Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a beautiful tourist destination. The temple’s scenic location, surrounded by lush green hills, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Nashik or Maharashtra.

 

9 Temples Famous In Maharashtra With Interesting Facts

 

Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple:

The Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur is a renowned Hindu temple located in the city of Kolhapur, Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Mahalaxmi, a Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. It is believed that the temple was originally built in the 7th century and has undergone several renovations and additions over the years.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of the Chalukya and the Rashtrakuta styles and is considered a masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture. The temple complex is spread over an area of 18 acres and comprises several smaller temples dedicated to other deities.

The temple is believed to have significant historical and religious significance and is mentioned in several ancient Hindu texts. According to legend, the temple was visited by several prominent saints and spiritual leaders, including Adi Shankaracharya and Sant Dnyaneshwar.

The temple is also famous for its annual Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. During this festival, the temple is beautifully decorated, and several cultural programs and events are organized. Thousands of devotees from across India visit the temple during this time to seek the blessings of the goddess Mahalaxmi.

The Mahalaxmi Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a popular tourist destination. The temple’s exquisite architecture, beautiful location, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Maharashtra.

Bhimashankar Temple :

The Bhimashankar Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is located amidst lush green forests and is surrounded by hills and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and pilgrims alike.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Indian and contemporary styles, with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures adorning the walls and pillars. It is believed that the temple was built during the 13th century by the king of the region, Nana Fadnavis.

The temple is famous for its unique lingam, which is said to be self-manifested and is considered highly sacred by devotees. The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities, including Lord Ganesh and Goddess Parvati.

The Bhimashankar Temple is also a popular destination for trekking and adventure enthusiasts. The trek to the temple involves a steep climb, but the beautiful scenery and breathtaking views make it a rewarding experience.

The temple also has significant historical and cultural significance and is associated with several myths and legends. According to legend, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Bhima at this spot, and the temple is named after him.

Grishneshwar Temple :

The Grishneshwar Temple, also known as the Ghushmeshwar Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the town of Verul, near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is considered a highly significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures adorning the walls and pillars. It is believed that the temple was built during the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of the Maratha dynasty.

The temple is famous for its lingam, which is said to be self-manifested and is considered highly sacred by devotees. The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities, including Lord Ganesh and Goddess Parvati.

The Grishneshwar Temple is also associated with several myths and legends, including a legend that states that the temple was once a site of a forest fire, which was put out by Lord Shiva himself.

The temple is also a popular destination for pilgrims, who visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple is especially crowded during the Mahashivratri festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.

 

9 Temples Famous In Maharashtra With Interesting Facts

 

 

Pandharpur Temple :

The Pandharpur Temple, also known as the Vitthal Rukmini Temple, is a renowned Hindu temple located in the town of Pandharpur in the Solapur district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and his consort Rukmini.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Indian and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures adorning the walls and pillars. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and comprises several smaller temples dedicated to other deities, including Lord Ganesh and Lord Hanuman.

The Pandharpur Temple is especially famous for its annual festival, Ashadi Ekadashi, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. During this festival, thousands of devotees from all over India visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini.

The temple is also associated with several myths and legends, including a legend that states that Lord Vitthal once appeared in front of a devotee, Sant Tukaram, in the form of a cowherd. The temple is also associated with the saint Sant Jnaneshwar, who composed his famous work, the Jnaneshwari, in the town of Pandharpur.

Tulja Bhavani Temple :
The Tulja Bhavani Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in the town of Tuljapur in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, who is considered to be a fierce manifestation of Goddess Durga.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Indian and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures adorning the walls and pillars. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and comprises several smaller temples dedicated to other deities, including Lord Ganesh and Lord Hanuman.

The Tulja Bhavani Temple is especially famous for its association with the Maratha king Shivaji, who was a devout follower of the goddess. The temple was one of Shivaji’s favorite temples, and he visited it frequently to seek the blessings of the goddess.

The temple is also associated with several myths and legends, including a legend that states that the goddess once appeared in front of a devotee, named Kallol, in the form of a young girl. The temple is also associated with the saint Tukaram, who composed several hymns in praise of the goddess.

The Tulja Bhavani Temple is also a popular destination for pilgrims, who visit the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess. The temple is especially crowded during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Ganpatipule Temple :

The Ganpatipule Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in the coastal town of Ganpatipule in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, who is considered the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom.

The temple’s architecture is simple and elegant, with the idol of Lord Ganesha made of white sand, which is believed to have self-manifested. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and comprises several smaller temples dedicated to other deities, including Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

The Ganpatipule Temple is situated on the pristine beach of Ganpatipule and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular tourist destination. The temple’s serene atmosphere and beautiful location make it an ideal spot for meditation and relaxation.

The temple is also associated with several myths and legends, including a legend that states that the temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile. The temple is also associated with the saint Narayan Bhatt, who composed several hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha.

The Ganpatipule Temple is also a popular destination for pilgrims, who visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The temple is especially crowded during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.

In conclusion:

Maharashtra is home to some of the most beautiful and historically significant temples in India. These temples offer not only a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural heritage but also an opportunity for spiritual and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions with Answers

1. In addition to the above, Are There Any Other Famous Shiva Temples In Maharashtra?

Yes, it is, the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga located in Aurangabad is believed to be the final or 12th Jyotirlinga. Aundha Nagnath Temple, Hingoli is also regarded as one of the jyotirlingas that worship the god, Shiva. Vaijnath Shiva Temple Parali is another important one and is the site of the largest Shivratri festival in the state.

2. Is there a place in Maharashtra where you can take a relaxing weekend and also go taking a pilgrimage at the Same Time?

Yes, the exclusive Ganpathi Pule is a prime example of this location (193 km from Mahabaleshwar 307 km from Pune, and 345 kilometers away from Mumbai). It is among the two white beaches the state has to offer. Peace lovers who want to have a relaxing getaway should visit this beach and take in the breathtaking sunsets that are available at the beach. What’s more? This tiny beach town is famous for its 400-year-old temple. It is considered to be extremely holy. worship of the god Ganpathi is believed to have been self-incarnated.

3. For those who follow Jainism Do you know of any places of worship in The State?

Of course. Maharashtra’s vibrant Jainism (even in the past) knowledge can be seen in the well-known Ellora caves. There are a lot of temples that Maharashtra provides for those who follow Jainism. Some of the births, as well as Jain temples in Maharashtra, including among them the Ellora Jain Caves Mangi-Tungi Kumbhoj, Jahaj Mandir in Mandala, and the Godiji Parshwanath Temple in Mumbai.

 

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