Tulja Bhavani Temple Maharashtra

Believed to be built somewhere in the 12th century, Tulja Bhavani Temple is an important Hindu pilgrimage center in Maharashtra. It is said that any mention of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is incomplete without the mention of his tremendous faith in the goddess Tulja Bhavani. Not on Shivaji, many royal families were the firm believers of Tulja Bhavani. Besides, Tulja Bhavani is believed to be one of the ‘Shaktipeethas’ of Goddess Durga. Moreover, many royal families of Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka are firm believers of Tulja Bhavani.

The Main Sanctum of the Temple

Inside the temple sanctum, a three feet tall granite idol of goddess Bhavani is gracefully adorned. The goddess has eight hands holding different attributes in each. The goddess is also known as Amba. To reach the main sanctum there are two entrances, Raja Shahaji Mahadwar and Rajmata Jijau. While entering the temple, tourists would come across Markandeya Rishi Temple and Yajna Kund. Sanctum of the temple is surrounded by many other shrines like Siddhi Vinayak Temple, Aadishakti Matangadevi Temple, and Annapoorna Temple.

History Behind the Temple

The history behind the temple goes like this: to disturb the feelings of Hindus and provoke a battle, Afzal Khan destroyed the image of Tulja Bhavani. Therefore due to an act of retribution, Afzal Khan was killed at Pratapgad. History of the temple is briefly mentioned in ‘Skanda Purana.

Best Time to Visit

Gudi Padva, Rathasaptami, and Navaratri is the best time to visit the Tulja Bhavani Temple. A Huge procession accompanied with drummers, musicians, and dancers take place during the Tulja Bhavani Temple.

Opening/Closing/Arti Time

• Morning Abhishek Puja : Starts at 7:00 AM
• Evening Abhishek Puja : Starts at 7:00 PM
• All other Puja's can be performed any time in between 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Address

Gajanan Bhanudas Lasane (Main Priest), Mankawati Galli, Tuljapur -413601