History:

Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the most ancient and sacred temples of India, located in the heart of the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra. It is dedicated to the Goddess Mahalaxmi, the preserver and consort of Lord Vishnu. According to the legends, Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple was originally built sometime between the 8th and 10th century. The temple has been renovated several times over the centuries, and the current structure was completed in the 19th century. The idols of the temple are of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Mahalaxmi, enshrined in silver, and adorned with diamond jewelry. The temple is also home to a number of deities such as Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Hanuman, and Kartikeya. Thousands of devotees come here to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the Goddess Mahalaxmi. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The magnificent Shri Mahalaxmi Temple (also known as Kolhapur Temple) is located on the bank of Panchganga River in the city of Kolhapur, Maharashtra. 2. It is believed that the temple was built by an ancient ruler named Chindaraya Vishwawarma as an abode for the goddess Mahalaxmi. 3. The temple is one of the three and half Shakti Peethas, devoted to the Hindu Temple Goddess Mahalaxmi, in Maharashtra. 4. The inner sanctum of the temple holds a 30-meter tall idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi and the idols of Mahakali and Mahasaraswathi to her left and right respectively. 5. A unique feature of this temple is that devotees are encouraged to pour their individual contributions onto the goddess every day, called the 'daily offering'. This is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the donors. 6. During the nine-day annual Navaratri festivals, special poojas and rituals are conducted and the temple is illuminated with thousands of earthen lamps. 7. The famous Ragamala paintings, made by Maharashtrian artists during the reign of Ibrahim Adil Shah II, decorate the temple walls and ceilings. 8. The temple has stood the test of time over many centuries, and is still considered to be one of the prominent pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra. Here are some facts about the Maharashtra temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Maharashtra

Worship Method:

The Kolhapur Mahalaxmi temple in Maharashtra is renowned for its beautiful shrines and buildings dedicated to the goddess Sati. The traditional worship methods of the temple involve offering various kinds of Prasad, blessings, and pujas. The devotees should first take a holy bath in the temple tank and then they need to perform Kannika Puja (worship of the goddess Mahalaxmi) and Navavarana Puja (ninefold worship). They should then proceed to the Garbha Gruha or the Sanctum Sanctorum where they should pour Panchamrit or five different grains/ liquids, and offer rice, flowers, and fruits to the idol of Mahalaxmi. After this, they perform Abhishekam or bathing rituals of the goddess along with chanting of sacred mantras and performing arti. Other important rituals include Shodash-archana (16 different types of pujas) and Karpura Aarti (lighting of camphor) which are performed five times a day. Maha-Aarti is done in the evening, when all the other pujas are done with great enthusiasm. It is believed that all the wishes of the devotees get fulfilled if they perform these rituals with true devotion and faith. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The temple is open for darshan and pooja all day from 4 am to 9 pm and remains open on all days of the week. From 4 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm the Mahapuja is performed. Special mangal aarati is performed between 4.30 am to 5 am. The temple remains closed between 12 pm to 4 pm. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

Travel By Train: Kolhapur Railway Station is the nearest major railway station to Mahalakshmi Temple. It is connected to many cities in and around Maharashtra. Travel By Bus: The Kolhapur Central Bus Stand is well connected to the Mahalakshmi Temple via numerous State and Private bus services. Travel By Taxi: Taxis and Cabs are easily available throughout the city and they are the most convenient way to reach the Mahalakshmi Temple. famous temples in Maharashtra