How about this: a seven-story temple dedicated to many Hindu deities? That’s Shree Mukteshwar Temple. Shree Mukteshwar Temple stands opposite the ISKCON temple in Juhu. It offers a unique spiritual experience.
Shree Mukteshwar Temple is not just a temple. It’s a journey through Sanatan Dharma and culture. Shri Pushpakant Anant Mhatre created this unique temple with the blessings of Shri Gagangiri Maharaj. It is also known as Sri Siddha Sanatan Mandir.
This Shree Mukteshwar Temple is unique in Maharashtra. Here, devotees can see Gods’ different forms in one place. The temple houses one hundred and five idols. These idols are spread across the court-room, original temple, and Navgrah. A lift is available for easy access to the seventh floor.
The history of Shree Mukteshwar Temple is quite interesting. Earlier, it had a wood and brick roof. It also had three wooden doors and a net fence. The temple had a sitting area and Shahbadi tile flooring. Ancient idols of Shri Mukteshwar, Shri Ganesh, Shri Vishnu, Goddess Parvati and Shri Hanuman were already present. It is said that Brahmins constructed this temple after the Peshwa kingdom.
In 1984, Mr. Pushpakant Mhatre initiated the renovation of Shree Mukteshwar Temple. He wanted the renovation to align with Indian archeology. Mr. Gagangiri Maharaj conducted the Bhoomi-pujan. He advised constructing the temple using the Hemand-panthi method. Vastu-Scientist B.G. alias Bhanudas Bhat created the plan without any charges. Hariprasad Sompura, with his knowledge of the Hemand-panthi method, started the construction plan.
Limestone from Saurashtra was used for the artwork and design. In the 20th century, Mumbai got a huge Hemand-panthi temple. In 1994, Mr. Gagangiri Maharaj re-established the roof-top of the renovated Shree Mukteshwar Temple. He also laid the foundation for the seven-floored building. The interiors of Shree Mukteshwar Temple feature white Marble-granite. After the renovation, the deities of Shri Mukteshwar and Shri Hanuman remained in the same place. Newly established idols of Shri Ram, Shri Laxman, Goddess Sita, Goddess Parvati, Shri Ganesh, Nandi, and Kurma were installed.
Many visit Shree Mukteshwar Temple to experience its peaceful ambiance. Regular religious rituals take place here. Mukteshwar means God of Relief or God of Salvation. Each temple of Lord Mukteshwarar has its own story. After slaying a demon, Lord Shiva grants liberation. Thus, taking this form. Mukth means liberation from all sins. Ishwar is Lord Shiva Himself. Another story says the Pandavas built Lord Shiva in Lingam form during their exile. They prayed for help and protection from sins.
This Shree Mukteshwar Temple is nearing 100 years old, according to locals. Initially, a small Lingam was installed and worshipped. Slowly, the temple expanded. Today, it is a landmark spot in Juhu.
Inside, you can worship Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh, Lord Rama, Devi Mata, and Sri Hanuman. The lift takes you to the 7th floor for a small fee. Each floor is filled with statues of Gods and Goddesses.
The 7th floor showcases 12 Jyotirlingam. The next floor is devoted to ardent devotees like Sri Meerabai and Sri Tukaram. The floor below features Sages and Rishis. The floor dedicated to Goddesses includes Sri Lakshmi Devi and Sri Saraswathi Devi. Ashtsvinayak covers another floor. The floor dedicated to Lord Vishnu displays His Dasavatharam.
The final floor has items pertaining to Gods and Goddesses, pooja items, and spiritual books. Temple staff are available to show you around.
Shree Mukteshwar Temple offers a complete feeling. It’s an unexpected, memorable experience. It’s a must-visit temple in Juhu.