How about a tale of perseverance? The story of Mumba Devi Temple is one such captivating saga. It is a story etched in the very fabric of Mumbai.
Mumba Devi Temple stands as a testament to faith and resilience. This temple is not just a structure. It is a living embodiment of Mumbai’s spirit. Mumba Devi is the city’s patron goddess. She protects its citizens from the sea and other perils.
Legend says the city derives its name from Mumba Devi herself. The Koli community, Mumbai’s original inhabitants, revered her. They saw her as their protector. The story goes back about 400 years. The original temple stood in Bori Bunder. The British later moved it to Kalbadevi in 1737. Pandu Seth donated the land.
Mumba Devi is an incarnation of Parvati. She took the form of a fisherwoman to learn perseverance. Fishermen, the Kolis, worshiped her before venturing into the sea. They believed she ensured their safety.
The idol is unique. It is adorned with a silver crown, gold necklace, and nose stud. Intriguingly, the idol has no mouth. It represents Mother Earth. The temple also houses idols of Hanuman and Ganesh. You can also find a stone idol of Annapurna. It sits perched on a peacock. A sculpture of a ferocious tiger is part of the complex as well.
Daily rituals are vibrant. The goddess’s vehicle changes each day. Monday sees her riding Nandi. Tuesday, an elephant. Wednesday, a rooster. Thursday, Garuda. Friday, a white swan. Saturday, another elephant. And Sunday, a lion. Six times a day, the Aarti of Maa Mumba Devi is performed.
The temple celebrates several festivals. Durga Puja and Navaratri are prominent. The temple sees a surge of devotees during these times. The temple is always open for Darshan. But there is a break for Shiv Mandir from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Reaching the temple is easy. It is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the nearest airport. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the closest railway station.
Many believe Mumba Devi fulfills wishes. Devotees stick a coin on the wall. If it sticks, their wish is believed to be granted. The goddess is specially worshipped by the Koli fishermen of Mumbai. They consider her their goddess and their protector.
As you leave the Mumba Devi Temple, remember the story. Remember the goddess who embodies Mumbai’s spirit. May your own journey be blessed with perseverance and fulfillment.