Shri Mahalakshmi Devi Temple

The Mahalakshmi Temple is among the most popular places to visit in Mumbai. It is a shrine for Shri Mahalakshmi, Shri Mahasaraswati, and Shri Mahakali, three powerful female gods. Constructed in the 1700s, the temple has become a heritage site due to its historical importance. Thousands of devotees visit daily to seek blessings from the goddesses.

History and Significance of Mahalakshmi Temple

Hindu trader Dhakji Dadaji built Mahalakshmi Temple in 1831. Tradition says three goddesses were sunk where the Mahalakshmi temple is to safeguard it from attackers. Lord Horneby, the governor and engineer Shri Ramji Shivji Prabhu, had to connect Malabar Hill and Worli to develop Bombay, but the sea was brutal.

They erected Mumbai's Shree Mahalakshmi Temple between 1761 and 1771, honouring three great female deities: Shri Mahalakshmi, Shri Mahasaraswati, and Shri Mahakali. Due to its historical significance, the 1700s temple is a heritage site.

Architectural Features

They built the Mahalakshmi Temple in 1771 and have updated and improved it. The sea in the background creates a beautiful scene, making it a must-see spot in any Mumbai tour package. In the Sanctum, Lord Ganesha's idol is on one side, and a statue of Vitthal Rukhamani is on the other. The temple measures about 11 meters by 11 meters, and inside, you'll see three idols of Mahalakshmi in the center, along with two each of Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. On a Simhasana, you'll also find the idol of Annapurna Devi. Standing 15 meters high, this majestic structure sits right before the temple.

Religious Practices and Festivals

Navaratri and Diwali are significant festivities at Shree Mahalakshmi Temple. The "Chaitra Navaratra" occurs in March–April, and the "Ashwin Navaratra" in September–October. Diwali is October–November. They decorate the temple from the front door to the gabhara for Navaratri. They surround the shrine with lights, flowers, garlands, and more.

August, December, and January have seen more women during Margashirsh. They hold the Palkhi of Mataji parade on "Gudhi Padwa," the first day of Chaitra (March or April), marking the Marathi New Year. On the first day of Chaitra, Navratra begins. Every year, on June 17, they hold the Palkhi parade. They celebrate the anniversary of the "Dhwjasthambha," built in front of the temple beside the digambara.

Best Time to Visit Mahalakshmi Temple

Thanks giving and Christmas are the best times to visit the Mahalakshmi Temple during Navaratri, many people visit the temple to seek blessings. They decorate it with flowers and greenery. People walk along the road lined with flags. Most people who want to worship during Diwali's three to four days are busy with "Laxmipoojan."

The best times are during Annakut, which is on the day of Kartik Pournima, the month of Margashirsh (December and January), and Palkhi of Mataji, which is on Gudi Padwa (Marathi New Year).