Read More on Mumba Devi Temple
History
As per the legends, Mubaraka built the shrine in the heart of the city. But the Mumba Devi temple is believed to be constructed primarily in Bori Bandar around the year 1675. Archaeologists believe that it was destroyed between the years 1739 and 1770. A new temple was built at Bhuleshwar in the Zaveri Bazaar. The year of construction remains a debatable topic as of now.
But since the erection of this shrine, the faith and religious activities of devotees all across the countries have been continuously practiced. Dravidians, North Indians, and Mumbaikars have always believed in the power of Goddess Amba.
Architecture
The temple shrine is built as per the classic and ancient Hindu temple architecture. A red flag sits on the top of the high spire. The exterior walls of the temple premises are adorned with intrinsic carvings which are prominent in various ancient Hindu temples.
The idol of Mumba Devi is decorated with a gold necklace, nose stud, and a silver crown. The sculpture of a fierce tiger in front of the main shrine is made to depict the mount of Goddess Mumba. Apart from this, you can also find the idols of Goddess Annapurna, Lord Ganesh, and Lord Hanuman here.
Activities
- Worshipping the guardian deity of Mumbai, the Mumba Devi shrine. It is the primary activity of this attraction. Belief says this goddess answers all your prayers and wishes if you are sincere enough.
- The daily aarti ceremonies are held every day in the morning and evening. If you happen to visit during Navratri, you will get to see splendid arrangements which last for 10 days.
- You can shop for jewelry or local souvenirs from the nearby Zaveri bazaar.
- Gateway of India is about 2 km away so you can even walk down the lanes of history to visit the phenomenal monument.
Tips for visiting
- Masks are mandatory. Each devotee who wishes to visit the temple has to follow the social distancing protocol.
- Each devotee has to register on the website of the temple as a mandatory pre-requirement concerning the COVID scenario.
- ID proofs are also compulsory, so keep an ID with you during your visit.
- Due to the pandemic, no prasad will be offered and offerings from the devotees will be accepted as well.
- The temple remains closed on Mondays.
- You might have to struggle with parking as the streets are narrow, it is better to park your vehicle at a little distance and walk to reach the temple entrance.
Best time to visit
The summers of Mumbai are extremely humid and the monsoons are wet. So it is advised that May to August remain avoided for visiting this place. The best weather to visit this temple is the winter months. From October to March, the climate is pleasant and soothing. Also, Navratri and other special festivals like Diwali or Shivratri fall in those times, so the enthusiasm of worshippers is a must-watch for everyone.
Nearby Atractions
- Fanaswadi Temple
- Bombay Panjrapole
- Gateway of India
- Khaki Tours
- Indian Art Corner
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
- Wankhede Stadium
- Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple
Nearby market/ shopping places
The nearby markets are famous. The temple is situated in Zaveri bazaar, which is locally renowned for being the abode of the majority of jewelers. The rest listed markets are within a radius of 2-3 km from the temple premises.
- Zaveri Bazaar- A perfect marketplace for jewelry, mostly Indian-style jewelry is available here.
- Al Moin Shopping Centre- The perfect shopping stop for items of daily use. This complex has shops for every daily use item.
- Crawford Market- One of the busiest markets that can be found nearby, you can find just about anything in this market.
- Mangaldas Market- This market can be a one-stop garment market for you. With reasonable prices and a wide range of variety, the market has a lot to offer.
- Chor Bazaar- A beautiful market for bygone era goods, it is perfect for photo lovers and collectors.
Nearby Hotels
- InterContinental Marine Drive
- Hotel Residency Park
- The Sahil Hotel
- Chateau Windsor Hotel
- The Ambassador Mumbai
- Orient Regency
Interesting Facts About Mumba Devi Temple
- Masks are mandatory. Each devotee who wishes to visit the temple has to follow the social distancing protocol.
- Each devotee has to register on the website of the temple as a mandatory pre-requirement concerning the COVID scenario.
- ID proofs are also compulsory, so keep an ID with you during your visit.
- Due to the pandemic, no prasad will be offered and offerings from the devotees will be accepted as well.
- The temple remains closed on Mondays.
- You might have to struggle with parking as the streets are narrow, it is better to park your vehicle at a little distance and walk to reach the temple entrance.