Are you looking for a spiritual and cultural getaway in India? If yes, then you should consider visiting Tuljapur, a small town in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra. Tuljapur is home to the revered temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani, who is believed to be the patron deity of Maharashtra and the Kuldevi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
But Tuljapur also has a rich history and heritage that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of India.
In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the beauty and charm of Tuljapur.
The Temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani
The main attraction of Tuljapur is the temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani, which is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. A Shakti Peetha is a place where a part of Goddess Sati’s body fell after she immolated herself in her father’s sacrificial fire. According to legend, Goddess Sati’s left arm fell at Tuljapur, where her shrine was established as Goddess Tulja Bhavani.
The History and Significance of the Temple
The temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is said to be more than 3000 years old and has been mentioned in several ancient scriptures such as Skanda Purana, Padma Purana, and Devi Bhagavata Purana. The temple was renovated and expanded by various rulers and dynasties over the centuries, such as the Rashtrakutas, the Yadavas, the Bahamanis, the Nizams, and the Marathas.
The temple is especially associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, who was an ardent devotee of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. He visited the temple several times and received his sword from the Goddess before launching his campaign against the Mughals. He also donated a gold-plated crown and a necklace to the Goddess as a token of gratitude. The temple is also considered as the Kuldevi or the family deity of many Maratha clans and families.
The temple complex consists of several structures and shrines, such as the main sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is installed; the Gomukh Tirtha, where a sacred spring flows from a cow’s mouth; the Matruka Mandir, where the idols of eight mother goddesses are worshipped; the Siddhi Vinayak Mandir, where Lord Ganesha is worshipped; and the Vishnu Tirtha, where Lord Vishnu is worshipped.
The idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is made of black stone and has eight arms, holding various weapons and symbols. She is adorned with a crown, a necklace, earrings, bangles, and other ornaments. She is seated on a lion and has a lotus at her feet. She is also known as Turaja, Turaja Kali, Tvarita (the swift one), Ambabai (the mother), Jagdamba (the mother of the world), etc.
The rituals and ceremonies performed at the temple are elaborate and colorful. The main ritual is the Aarti or the offering of light to the Goddess, which is done four times a day: at dawn (Kakad Aarti), at noon (Madhyanha Aarti), at dusk (Sandhya Aarti), and at night (Shej Aarti). The Aarti is accompanied by chanting of hymns and mantras, ringing of bells, blowing of conch shells, beating of drums, etc.
Another important ritual is the Abhishek or the bathing of the idol with various substances such as water, milk, honey, curd, etc. The Abhishek is done by priests or devotees who have booked it in advance. The Abhishek is followed by dressing up of the idol with different clothes and ornaments according to different occasions.
Other rituals include offering flowers, fruits, sweets, coconut, etc. to the Goddess; tying threads or bangles on her arms for fulfilling wishes; performing circumambulation or pradakshina around the temple; performing prostration or namaskar before the idol; etc.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: The Ultimate Guide You Need To Plan Your Pilgrimage
The Festivals and Celebrations at the Temple
The temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is a hub of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The major festivals celebrated at the temple are:
Navratri: Navratri or the nine nights of the Goddess is celebrated twice a year, in the months of Ashwin (September-October) and Chaitra (March-April). During this festival, the temple is decorated with lights, flowers, and flags. The idol of the Goddess is dressed up in different colors and forms each day, representing her different aspects and powers. The devotees perform various rituals such as fasting, chanting, dancing, etc. to please the Goddess. The highlight of the festival is the Durga Puja or the worship of the Goddess on the eighth or ninth day, when a grand Aarti is performed and a huge procession is taken out in the town.
Kojagiri Purnima: Kojagiri Purnima or the full moon night of Ashwin (September-October) is another important festival celebrated at the temple. On this day, the Goddess is believed to be in her most benevolent and generous mood and grants all the wishes of her devotees. The devotees stay awake all night and offer milk and rice to the Goddess. They also sing and dance in her praise and seek her blessings.
Makar Sankranti: Makar Sankranti or the transition of the sun into Capricorn (January) is a festival that marks the beginning of a new year and a new harvest season. On this day, the devotees offer sesame seeds and jaggery to the Goddess and pray for prosperity and happiness. They also fly kites and enjoy various delicacies made of sesame seeds and jaggery.
Other festivals: Some other festivals celebrated at the temple are Gudi Padwa or the Marathi New Year (March-April), Ram Navami or the birthday of Lord Rama (March-April), Hanuman Jayanti or the birthday of Lord Hanuman (April), Akshaya Tritiya or the auspicious day for starting new ventures (April-May), Guru Purnima or the full moon day dedicated to spiritual teachers (July), Raksha Bandhan or the festival of brother-sister bond (August), Janmashtami or the birthday of Lord Krishna (August-September), Ganesh Chaturthi or the birthday of Lord Ganesha (August-September), etc.
Apart from these festivals, there are some special events and processions that are held at the temple on certain days. Some of these are:
Aarti: As mentioned earlier, Aarti is performed four times a day at the temple. However, on some special days, such as Tuesdays, Fridays, Purnima (full moon), Amavasya (new moon), etc., an additional Aarti is performed at 10 am, which is called Rajopachar Aarti or Royal Aarti. This Aarti is done with more pomp and splendor than usual, with more offerings and decorations.
Palakhi: Palakhi or palanquin is a wooden carriage that is used to carry the idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani from one place to another. The palakhi is decorated with flowers, cloth, and silver ornaments. The palakhi is carried by devotees who sing devotional songs and chant slogans in praise of the Goddess. The palakhi is taken out on every Purnima (full moon) from the main temple to the Ghat Shila Temple, where a special Aarti is performed. The palakhi is also taken out on some other occasions such as Navratri, Makar Sankranti, etc.
Palkhi Sohala: Palkhi Sohala or Palanquin Festival is a grand event that takes place once in 12 years at Tuljapur. It is also known as Mahapalkhi Sohala or Great Palanquin Festival. On this occasion, the idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is taken out in a palakhi from Tuljapur to Pandharpur, a distance of about 250 km. The palakhi travels through various towns and villages, where it is welcomed by thousands of devotees who offer prayers and gifts to the Goddess. The palakhi reaches Pandharpur on Ashadhi Ekadashi (July), where it meets with another palakhi carrying Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The two palakhis are then taken to their respective temples, where a special Aarti is performed.
The festivals and celebrations at the temple are not only a way of expressing devotion to Goddess Tulja Bhavani but also a way of celebrating the culture and heritage of Maharashtra and India. They showcase the diversity and unity of faiths, traditions, and communities that coexist in harmony.
Also Read: What You Need To Know About The Shirdi-Nashik-Trimbakeshwar-Vani Circuit!
The online services offered by the temple trust of Goddess Tulja Bhavani are a convenient and easy way for devotees to connect with the Goddess from anywhere in the world. The temple trust has a website where devotees can avail various online services such as:
Online Pooja Booking: Devotees can book online pooja for themselves or their loved ones by filling a form and paying a nominal fee. They can choose from different types of pooja such as Abhishek, Aarti, Archana, etc. and select the date and time of their preference. They will receive a confirmation email and a receipt after booking. They can also watch the live darshan of the pooja on the website or on their mobile phones.
Online Donation: Devotees can make online donation to the temple trust by using various modes of payment such as credit card, debit card, net banking, etc. They can also specify the purpose of their donation such as Annadanam (food offering), Nitya Prasad (daily offering), Nitya Seva (daily service), etc. They will receive a confirmation email and a receipt after donating. They can also claim tax exemption for their donation under section 80G of the Income Tax Act.
Online Accommodation Booking: Devotees can book online accommodation at the temple premises by filling a form and paying a nominal fee. They can choose from different types of rooms such as deluxe, semi-deluxe, dormitory, etc. and select the number of days and nights of their stay. They will receive a confirmation email and a receipt after booking. They can also check the availability and status of their booking on the website.
Online Shopping Center: Devotees can buy online various products related to the temple and the Goddess such as books, CDs, DVDs, photos, idols, souvenirs, etc. They can browse through the catalog and add items to their cart. They can pay using various modes of payment such as credit card, debit card, net banking, etc. They will receive a confirmation email and a receipt after buying. They can also track their order and delivery status on the website.
These online services are designed to provide convenience and comfort to the devotees who wish to worship Goddess Tulja Bhavani from anywhere in the world. They are also a way of supporting the temple trust in maintaining and developing the temple and its facilities.
The Attractions and Activities in and around Tuljapur
Tuljapur is not only a religious destination but also a cultural and natural destination. There are many attractions and activities that one can enjoy in and around Tuljapur. Some of these are:
The Dhakte Tuljapur or The Underground Temple
The Dhakte Tuljapur or the underground temple is a hidden gem that is located about 2 km away from the main temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. It is believed to be the original temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani before it was destroyed by invaders. The underground temple is situated in a cave that is accessible by a narrow staircase. The cave has a small opening that allows natural light to enter.
The underground temple has a small sanctum sanctorum where an idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is installed. The idol is made of stone and has four arms, holding a sword, a shield, a lotus, and a trident. The idol is covered with sindoor (vermilion) and flowers. The underground temple also has idols of other deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, etc.
The underground temple is a serene and peaceful place where one can feel the presence of Goddess Tulja Bhavani in her original form. The devotees who visit the underground temple offer prayers and offerings to the Goddess and seek her blessings.
The Ghat Shila Temple or The Rock Temple
The Ghat Shila Temple or the rock temple is another attraction that is located about 4 km away from the main temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. It is situated on a hill near a waterfall that flows from the Bhima river. The rock temple is said to be the place where Goddess Tulja Bhavani killed the demon Mahishasura after a fierce battle.
The rock temple has a small shrine where an idol of Goddess Tulja Bhavani is installed. The idol is made of metal and has eight arms, holding various weapons and symbols. The idol is adorned with clothes and ornaments. The rock temple also has idols of other deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, etc.
The rock temple is a scenic and adventurous place where one can witness the power and glory of Goddess Tulja Bhavani in her warrior form. The devotees who visit the rock temple offer prayers and offerings to the Goddess and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Nearby Places to Explore
Tuljapur is also a good base to explore the nearby places that have their own attractions and activities. Some of the nearby places that one can visit from Tuljapur are:
Osmanabad: Osmanabad is the district headquarters of Tuljapur and is about 25 km away from Tuljapur. Osmanabad has some historical and cultural attractions such as the Naldurg Fort, which is a 14th century fort that has a huge moat and a network of underground chambers; the Paranda Fort, which is a 17th century fort that has a palace and a mosque; the Dharashiv Caves, which are a group of seven rock-cut caves that have Buddhist and Jain sculptures and paintings; the Kallola Tirtha, which is a sacred pond that has a temple of Lord Shiva and a statue of Nandi; etc.
Solapur: Solapur is a major city in Maharashtra and is about 45 km away from Tuljapur. Solapur has some religious and cultural attractions such as the Siddheshwar Temple, which is a 12th century temple that has a lake and a garden; the Pandharpur Temple, which is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for the followers of Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu; the Akkalkot Temple, which is the samadhi or the final resting place of Shri Swami Samarth, a 19th century saint and guru; the Bhuikot Fort, which is a 14th century fort that has a palace and a museum; etc.
Pandharpur: Pandharpur is a holy town in Maharashtra and is about 100 km away from Tuljapur. Pandharpur is famous for its temple of Lord Vitthal, who is also known as Vithoba or Panduranga. The temple of Lord Vitthal is one of the most visited temples in India and attracts millions of devotees every year. The temple has a black stone idol of Lord Vitthal standing on a brick with his hands on his hips. The temple also has idols of his consort Rukmini, his devotees Pundalik and Namdev, and other deities. The temple is especially crowded during the Ashadhi Ekadashi (July) and Kartik Ekadashi (November) festivals, when thousands of pilgrims walk to Pandharpur from various parts of Maharashtra and other states.
These are some of the nearby places that one can visit from Tuljapur and enjoy their attractions and activities.
The Travel Tips and Recommendations for Visiting Tuljapur
Tuljapur is a divine destination that offers a unique blend of spirituality and culture. Whether you want to seek the blessings of Goddess Tulja Bhavani, witness the grandeur of the temple festivals, or explore the natural and historical wonders of the region, Tuljapur has something for everyone. But before you plan your trip to Tuljapur, here are some travel tips and recommendations that will help you make your trip smooth and memorable.
How to Reach Tuljapur
Tuljapur is well-connected by road, rail, and air from different cities in India. Here are some of the best ways to reach Tuljapur:
By Road: Tuljapur is easily accessible by road from various cities in Maharashtra such as Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nagpur, etc. There are regular buses operated by state transport corporations or private operators that ply to Tuljapur from these cities. The bus fare ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1000 depending on the type of bus and the distance. One can also hire a taxi or drive their own vehicle to reach Tuljapur by road. The road condition is good and scenic.
By Rail: Tuljapur does not have its own railway station. The nearest railway station is Solapur, which is about 45 km away from Tuljapur. Solapur is well-connected by rail from various cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, etc. There are regular trains that run to Solapur from these cities. The train fare ranges from Rs. 200 to Rs. 2000 depending on the class and the distance. From Solapur, one can take a bus or a taxi to reach Tuljapur by road.
By Air: Tuljapur does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Pune, which is about 250 km away from Tuljapur. Pune is well-connected by air from various cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, etc. There are regular flights that fly to Pune from these cities. The flight fare ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 10000 depending on the airline and the distance. From Pune, one can take a bus or a taxi to reach Tuljapur by road. Where to Stay in Tuljapur
Tuljapur has a range of hotels and resorts that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best hotels and resorts in Tuljapur are:
Hotel Darshan Executive: Hotel Darshan Executive is a 3-star hotel that is located near the main temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with amenities such as AC, TV, Wi-Fi, etc. The hotel also has a restaurant, a conference hall, a banquet hall, a terrace garden, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500 per night for a double room.
Hotel Shivneri: Hotel Shivneri is a 2-star hotel that is located near the bus stand of Tuljapur. The hotel offers cozy and clean rooms with amenities such as AC, TV, Wi-Fi, etc. The hotel also has a restaurant, a parking lot, a travel desk, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per night for a double room.
Yatri Niwas: Yatri Niwas is a budget hotel that is located within the temple premises of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. The hotel offers basic and affordable rooms with amenities such as fan, TV, etc. The hotel also has a canteen, a library, a meditation hall, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 300 to Rs. 500 per night for a double room.
Shri Tulja Bhavani Resort: Shri Tulja Bhavani Resort is a luxury resort that is located about 10 km away from the main temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani. The resort offers lavish and elegant rooms with amenities such as AC, TV, Wi-Fi, mini-bar, etc. The resort also has a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, a restaurant, a bar, etc. The resort charges Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 per night for a double room.
These are some of the best hotels and resorts in Tuljapur that you can choose from according to your budget and preference.
When to Visit Tuljapur
Tuljapur can be visited throughout the year as it has a pleasant and moderate climate. However, the best time to visit Tuljapur is based on the weather and the festivals. Here are some of the pros and cons of visiting Tuljapur in different seasons:
Winter (November to February): Winter is the ideal season to visit Tuljapur as the weather is cool and dry with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This is the best time to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities in and around Tuljapur. This is also the time when some of the major festivals such as Kartik Ekadashi (November), Makar Sankranti (January), etc. are celebrated at the temple with great fervor and enthusiasm.
Summer (March to May): Summer is the least preferred season to visit Tuljapur as the weather is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. This is not the best time to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities in and around Tuljapur as the heat can be exhausting and uncomfortable. However, this is also the time when some of the important festivals such as Gudi Padwa (March-April), Ram Navami (March-April), Akshaya Tritiya (April-May), etc. are celebrated at the temple with devotion and joy.
Monsoon (June to October): Monsoon is a mixed season to visit Tuljapur as the weather is wet and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This is a good time to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities in and around Tuljapur as the rain brings freshness and greenery to the landscape. However, this is also the time when some of the roads and attractions may be closed or inaccessible due to heavy rainfall or landslides. This is also the time when some of the most popular festivals such as Ashadhi Ekadashi (July), Raksha Bandhan (August), Janmashtami (August-September), Ganesh Chaturthi (August-September), Navratri (September-October), etc. are celebrated at the temple with grandeur and splendor.
So, depending on your preference and convenience, you can choose the best time to visit Tuljapur.
Conclusion
Tuljapur is a divine destination that will enchant you with its spirituality and culture. It is where you can connect with Goddess Tulja Bhavani, who is the patron deity of Maharashtra and the Kuldevi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is where you can participate in the glorious traditions and festivals of Maharashtra and India. It is where you can visit the amazing attractions and activities in and around Tuljapur.
Tuljapur is a divine destination that you should not miss. So, plan your trip to Tuljapur now and get ready for an unforgettable journey.