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Maharashtra Tulja Bhavani Temple
The Tulja Bhavani Temple in Maharashtra, India is the second of 15 “Shaktipeethas” dedicated to the Goddess Bhavani. It is situated in the district of Osmanabad about 45 kms from the city of Sholapur.
History
The Tulja Bhavani Temple is the temple of the family deity of the Bhosale family which was the founder of Hindavi Swaraj. Chhatrapati Shivaji visited this temple along with his mother to seek the blessings of the Goddess before he set out on a mission. According to the Skanda Purana, Anubuti performed penance to appease Maa Bhavani. The demon Kukur tried to break the penance and Mata Bhavani slew him. From then on the Goddess Bhavani came to be known as Tulja Bhavani.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is the Lohegaon airport at Pune at a distance of 300 kms from Tuljapur. Pune is well connected by air to all major cities. The nearest international airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport at Mumbai. Taxicabs and rental cars are available from both airports to Tuljapur and back.
By Rail
Sholapur is the closest railway station at a distance of about 52 kms from the temple. Buses and taxis are available at the station.
By Road
You can drive down to Tuljapur from Mumbai and Pune both of which are approximately the same distance from the temple. Private and state owned buses are also available. Special arrangements are often made for pilgrims who wish to visit the temple and seek the blessings of the Goddess Tulja Bhavani.
Important Shrines
A few other temples around Tuljapur are worth visiting:
The Ghatshil Temple
The temple is built around the rock where Tulja Bhavani is said to have stood and directed Lord Rama when he went out in search of his wife Sita.
Mankavati Tirth
This lake is said to contain the holy waters of the three holy rivers of India – Ganga, Jamuna, and Saraswati. Taking a dip in this lake is a ritual followed by every pilgrim who visits Tulja Bhavani. It is said to cleanse one of all sins.
Dhakte Tuljapur or Little Tuljapur
A temple built about 2 to 3 kilometers outside Tuljapur where an idol of Mahishasur-mar-dini Bhavani has been installed. This idol was found by an employee of Rama Vithoba Mali when ploughing his field.
Muth or Monasteries
There are a number of Muths or Monasteries in and around Tuljapur. The Wakoji Buva Muth has the responsibility of performing various services in the Tulja Bhavani temple and the Mahant or abbot of this muth is entrusted with the keys.
Significance Of The Temple
The Goddess Tulja Bhavani is described as a mighty and formidable force in the Hindu scriptures. She is said to have slain demons and guided Vishnu, in his Rama and Krishna Avatar. She is the Kuldevi or the family deity of most families in Maharashtra. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is said to have sought her blessings whenever he set out to vanquish his enemies. The Goddess is said to have gifted her sword to Shivaji Maharaj to help him in his mission.
Weather And Time To Visit
Summer
It is best to avoid visiting the temple in the summer when the temperatures can really soar – particularly if you are unused to such weather.
Monsoon
Tuljapur and the surrounding area has moderate rainfall. A visit is possible if the weather permits.
Winter
Winter is by far the best season to visit Tuljapur. The months Between July to March see a cool humid climate with moderate rains.
Accomodation
There are a number of hotels, lodges and ashrams in an around Tuljapur with amenities ranging from cold water to high speed internet. You can take your pick depending on your budget and needs.
Tips For Devotees
Sholapur is the nearest city which is well connected by road. You can set up base in Sholapur. Buses to Tuljapur are available from Sholapur every 15 minutes. Avoid April to June because of the heat. If you set up base in Sholapur, you can take day trips to all the shrines and view them at your leisure. It is a good idea to have your own vehicle to drive around
Rules And Rituals Of The Temple
The doors of the temple are opened in the morning at 4 am and close at 9 pm. Pooja and Arti are performed twice every day in the morning and evening. There is also a pooja at midday. Pilgrims can have the Abhishek Pooja performed for some specific purpose at 7 am or 7 pm. Every full moon night, a procession with the idol of the deity in a chariot circles the temple building with devotees chanting the praises of Tulja Maa. The Navratri festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm for 9 days in April and October.
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