A temple made of Porbunder marble. This is the Datta Mandir in Mumbai. It stands in Grant Road next to the Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan. But this magnificent structure opens its doors only once a year. On Datta Jayanti. A Hindu festival commemorating the birth of Lord Datta.
This yearly opening is a tradition. It began with the temple’s founder. He intended the Datta Mandir to be a private family worship place. Even then he opened it to the public only on Datta Jayanti. This unique practice continues. It ensures the temple’s sanctity is preserved. The family maintains the tradition.
The Datta Mandir’s architecture is breathtaking. Its exterior is beautifully carved white Porbunder marble. The interior is even more impressive. The floors are Italian marble. Intricate carvings adorn the original Burma teak doors. The main shrine is nine and a half feet high. It is made of Italian grey marble. This marble was specially shipped from Italy. The temple’s exceptional restoration earned it a Heritage award in 2002.
Every morning a pujari arrives at 6 am. He cleans the Datta Mandir. He performs the daily puja abhishek and aarti. This sacred ritual lasts about an hour. Afterwards he locks up the temple. The Dhabolkar family visits daily. They seek darshan and solace. This daily ritual shows their deep devotion.
Despite many requests the Dhabolkar family keeps the Datta Mandir closed most of the year. They fear bogus beggars and sadhus. They want to protect the temple from pollution and disrepair. Many people eagerly await Datta Jayanti. They look forward to this special day to visit the elusive and majestic Datta Mandir.
The temple’s annual opening is a significant event. Last year over 500 visitors came on a single day. The family of the famous cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has also visited. They came to pay their respects. The family of ML Dahanukar a pioneer of Maharashtra sugar also maintains a yearly visit. Their devotion is a testament to the temple’s spiritual power. This year on Datta Jayanti many will visit. The Datta Mandir in Mumbai. A yearly spectacle. A testament to faith.