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| Mumbadevi Temple, Mumbai |
Mumbadevi Temple in Mumbai is the temple of Maa
Mumbadevi. Mumbai has derived its name from Goddess Mumbadevi. It is
built to pay a tribute to the Goddess of Mumbai. There is a great
mythological story attached to the creation of this temple. The current name of
the city is derived from the resident deity of Mumbai, Goddess Mumbadevi. On
Mondays the temple remains closed.
History
The Mumbadevi Temple was first built in Bori-Bunder in 1675.
The temple was destroyed and reconstructed at Zaveri Bazaar, Bhuleshwar in
1737. Since ancient times, the Koli fishermen and Dravidians offered their
prayers to Mumbadevi at this temple and still continue to do so.
Legend
According to a legend, Mumbadevi, an eight-armed Goddess,
was sent by 'Lord Brahma' to vanquish an evil demon known as 'Mumbaraka', who
terrorized the locals. After his defeat, Mumbaraka fell on his knees and begged
the Goddess to take his name. He was also given the permission to build a
beautiful temple dedicated to her. Thus, the magnificent shrine of Mumbadevi
Temple was built by Mumbaraka in the heart of the city.
Architecture & goddess’s idol
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| Goddess Mumbadevi |
The structure of Mumbadevi Temple is a marvellous sight for
anyone who visits this shrine. The highlight of the Mumbadevi Temple is the benevolent Goddess
Mumbadevi, dressed in silver robes, adorned with a silver crown, a golden
necklace and a nose stud. The idol is placed on an altar, bedecked with
marigold flowers. Idols of 'Hanuman' and 'Ganesh' are also placed within the
temple complex. In the Mumbadevi Temple, apart from the image of the Goddess Mumbadevi,
there also reside idols of Ganesh, Indra and Hanuman. Other figures include a
stone idol of 'Annapurna' seated on a peacock and a sculpture of a fierce
tiger. It is believed that the Maa Mumba does not let down any of her devotees
if they are sincere while offering their prayers.
Things to Do
Apart from attending the Mumba Devi Temple activities, one
can also explore the various shops surrounding the temple vicinity. There are
several shops selling a variety of fresh flowers and delicious sweets. One can
find shops selling religious artefacts and idols. There are also several jewellery
shops located in Zaveri Bazaar (which literally translates into Jewellers’
Market) if you are looking to invest in some gold!
Nearby Places
Crawford Market situated nearby is famous for its fresh vegetables,
fruits and meat. The Chowpatty Beach, a hot tourist destination, is located at
the Northern end of Marine Drive so if you are looking for some solitude, you
might want to head to the beach after the temple aarti.
How to Reach
By Road
One can hire auto-rickshaws or taxis to Bhuleshwar where the
Mumbadevi Temple is located.
By Rail
One can reach Mumbadevi Temple easily by boarding local trains
from the city. The Charni-road Station is only 10 minutes from Bhuleshwar.
Churchgate Station is also located close to Bhuleshwar.
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