Ready to uncover a sacred space amid Mumbai’s vibrant chaos? The iconic Mota Mandir at Bhuleshwar awaits. This temple is a South Mumbai landmark for Pustimarg Vaishnavs. It is more than just a religious site. Mota Mandir is a repository of history and devotion.
Established in 1810 by Shree Gowardhaneshji Goswami, the Mota Mandir has been a cornerstone of the Vaishnav community. Generations have sought solace and blessings within its walls. The Vaishnavs of Mumbai invited Goswamiji to bring this deity to Mumbai. They wanted him to establish the temple here.
Now, over two centuries later, Mota Mandir is undergoing a significant reconstruction and renovation. This R and R is not rest and recuperation. It is reconstruction and renovation. The deadline for completion was 24 months. The main temple is being crafted from Makarana white marble. It will feature deep carvings. This will ensure the temple lasts for at least another 1000 years.
Imagine the scene when Mota Mandir held a ‘chappan bhog’ for the Lord. This special occasion had 2500 dishes. Almost one lakh devotees attended. This marked Phase I of the temple’s restoration.
Trustees divided the renovation into three phases. One wing was started in 1999 and completed in 2007. The balance work began in 2009. Sixty percent of the work has now been completed. Carvers from Gujarat, Rajasthan and Orissa are working here. They work often until 9 pm.
The carving is very rich and detailed. The structure has a ground plus two floors. The jaronkhas need detailed marble work. The Mota Mandir is also being made earthquake resistant. This ensures the faith of millions cannot be shaken.
To maintain vigilance, Mota Mandir has installed 53 closed-circuit televisions. The trustees are pushing to get more young people to visit the temple regularly.
The temple plans to include gold work and a musical fountain. The challenge is to attract the younger generation. Even aartis are now done online. The serpentine lanes of Bhuleshwar pose access challenges due to parking. Despite these challenges, the management is confident.
Deepak Kapadia remembers accompanying his grandfather and father to Mota Mandir. They called it ‘Vada Mandir’. He lived near Princess Street. The temple and home were close. He recalls cool marble floors. He remembers the pealing bells as families walked to the temple. These memories still play in his mind.
Kapadia suggests stricter timings for darshans. He also recommends improving the approach road and parking. This would provide easier access. He believes Mota Mandir shaped him. Its memories are fresh and cling to his mind like dew on a leaf.