Kulaswamini: Tutelary Deity of Maharashtra
Tuljapur, the abode of holiest of the holy goddess Kulaswamini, is a consecrated pilgrim center in Maharashtra, almost 430 km to the South East of Mumbai. Tuljapur Kulswamini is the patron deity of Maharashtra and there are tales of Goddess’s miraculous blessing on Shiva ji, the great Maratha who attributed his many conquests to his Kul Devi (patron god). The holy temple of Ma Bhavani appeals in many ways and one of which is its turmeric and vermillion tinged exuberant carvings on the temple top. Inside the precincts, the goddess welcomes one in the same searing gaze and ferocity as she blessed Shivaji with a divine sword. Revered by many, the Tulja Bhavani Mandir is thronged by more than 10,000 devotees on a daily basis in its prangan (common area).