Shree Datta Mandir

Did you ever hear of a temple that opens only once a year? Right here in the bustling heart of Mumbai stands such a place. Shree Datta Mandir, a hidden gem, reveals its splendor only on Datta Jayanti. This Hindu festival, celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Margashirsha (mid-December), marks the birth of Lord Datta. The Shree Datta Mandir’s story began in 1898. Shantaram Narayan Dabholkar, a wealthy Mumbai resident, built it as a private worship space for his family. The temple’s exterior, crafted from Porbunder marble, is a testament to the family’s devotion. Intricate carvings adorn the white facade. Inside, Italian marble floors and Burma teak doors create an atmosphere of serene opulence. The main shrine, the Devara, stands an impressive nine and a half feet tall. Made of grey Italian marble, it was shipped in pieces all the way from Italy. The temple’s unique tradition of opening only once a year continues to this day, thanks to Shantaram’s grandson, Sachin. He has resisted requests to open it year-round. He fears the potential damage and disruption from an endless stream of visitors. He prefers to preserve the temple’s tranquility and maintain its pristine condition. Despite its limited accessibility, the Shree Datta Mandir draws a large crowd on Datta Jayanti. Hundreds of devotees flock to experience its beauty and offer their prayers. It even captured the attention of the Heritage Foundation. In 2002, they gave it the best restored religious building award. The Dhabolkar family themselves visit the temple daily for solace and darshan. A pujari performs the daily rituals, cleaning the temple, performing puja, abhishek, and aarti before locking it up once more. The Shree Datta Mandir stands as a unique testament to faith and family tradition in the heart of Mumbai. Its once-a-year opening is a special event, offering a rare glimpse into a hidden world of devotion and architectural beauty.