Tulja Bhavani Temple in Tuljapur

The Tulja Bhawani Mandir architecture reflects the 12th-century Hemaad Panthi architectural style where intricate carvings and stout gopurams were the order of the day. An unending stone wall separates the temple from the rest of the town in sheer holiness. In its mythological streak, Tulja Bhawani Mandir is constructed on the same strip of land where Mahisasur’s slain head fell in a fierce battle between him and Goddess Bhawani, who was borne out of fire pillars created by Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.

Indoors, the main temple sphere, the chala moorti (moving idol), is the main statuette of the holy sanctum sanctorum. As said before Afzal Khan’s attack on the temple the goddess appeared in the dreams of pujari and conveyed him the impending danger. It was then that the idol was shifted to a safer place. 

After when you cross the car parking zone, there stand two huge appliquéd entrance gates Raje Shahaji Mahadwar and Rajmata Jijau Mahadwar. On the left side of the Bhawani Mandir is a stone tank called as Kallol Tirth, the water of the tank has curative properties. Strolling few meters ahead is located Gomukh Tirth where water flows out of cow-like structure. Gomukh Tirth is equal to the Ganges in value and significance. Next, comes the Vishnu Tirth located on the eastern side of the northeastern side of the temple. It is famed for its piousness and stone steps that lead to its three entrances.

The main temple area a sabha mandap made of stone pillars sacredly nurtures images of all gods and goddesses. Centrally located the temple mandap has two side entrances supported by many pillars. In the garbha is beautifully carved, gold-laden statuette of Tulja Bhawani. On fine and festive days, the idol is fine gold and silver jewelry. One noticed ornament is the gold necklace that bears the name of ‘Chattarpati Shivaji’ on its each piece. Aside from these other notable things are marbled lion, the silver bed of goddess, her simhasan and Shivalinga.

Stepping out of the temple there is a round stone-like structure called as Chintamani, the goddess who helps take the right decision. Smaller shrines of Matangi, Yamee Devi, khandoba and Narimsha occupy little spaces inside the temple. A very special palanquin with hand-painted imageries of birds and animals is kept safe and used on Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays and Full moon days to carry the goddess. 

Note: The goddess is offered panchamruta abhishekams from 7 in the morning till noon and 7 in the evening till 10 in the night. Devotees can seek darshan between noon and 7 pm. Darshans are not closed for those who don’t participate in the abhishekams.