About
Mumba Devi Temple is a renowned ancient temple dedicated to 'Goddess Mumbadevi'. This beautiful temple situated in Mumbai was built in the 18th century. The 'Koli' fishermen or the early inhabitants of Mumbai greatly respect and honor Goddess Mumbadevi and consider her as their guardian. Goddess Mumbadevi is recognized as 'Goddess Shakti' or the Goddess of Power. The temple was demolished in 1675 AD and rebuilt later in 1737 AD.
How
To Reach:
By Road: One can hire auto-rickshaws or taxis to Bhuleshwar
where the Mumba Devi Temple is located.
By Rail: One can reach Mumba Devi 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.
History
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 Mumba Devi Temple was
built by Mumbaraka in the heart of the city. However, as per another Legend, The
Mumba Devi Temple was first constructed in Bori Bunder in 1675. In 1737, the
temple was re-constructed at Zaveri Bazaar, Bhuleshwar as it was destructed by
an earthquake. The Koli fishermen and Dravidians offered their prayers to
Mumbadevi at this temple and still continue to do so since ancient times.
Architecture
Today, this elegant temple is sited amidst the crowded steel and cloth
markets of Mumbai. Within the jam-packed Zaveri Bazaar, one can see the Mumba
Devi Temple surrounded by several flower shops. People attend the 'aartis' in
this temple that are conducted in the mornings and evenings. The Mumba Devi
Temple is open on all days except Mondays. Apart from the regular devotees who
flock the temple, tourists from all over the world too, come to admire this
gorgeous temple in Mumbai. Mumbai city derives its name from the Goddess
Mumbadevi and therefore, this temple is truly an important structure for the
dwellers of this beautiful city.