Kolhapur mahalaxmi temple
On the entrance of north side, large bell is rung. In the yard, there is a group of lamps in a row. There are 2 pilgrimage spots viz Kashi and Manikarnika on north side. Shri Mahalaxmi temple has 4 entrances out of which main is on the west side and has a place over it to keep the kettle drums. Other than this, there are small temples like Dattatray, Harihareshwar, Mukteshwari, Vithoba, Kashivishveshwar, Ram, Radhbhavani, Krishna, Tulajabhavani, mahadeva etc. Navagrah Mandap is an excellent example of ancient indian sculture. Though idol of Sheshshayi is not so attractive, the delicate and beautiful sculpture in front of it and 'Jain Tirthankar' are worth a special visit. It includes 'Sheshshayi', 'Navgrih' and 'Ashtdikpal mandap'. In the surroundings of the Shri Mahalaxmi temple, there are idols of other deities. On the outside of the main temple, sculpture of 64 dancing devotee girls and additional work can be observed. It is said that till 1722, the idol of Shri Mahalaxmi was kept hidden or 200 years to save it from the attack of Muslims. The main location is the place where idol of Mahalaxmi is placed. Jay and Vijay and the artistic sculpture are very attractive. On both sides of mandap, there are idols of Bharat and Shatrughna carved out. The path to offer revolutions around the temple is inside the temple and is very peculiar. All other times, it is used for praying and presentations. In Navaratri, grand festival is celebrated here.
In front of main temple, there is a entrance mandap viz 'Garud mandap'.
Other than the idol of Shri Mahalaxmi, there are idols of Mahasaraswati on the south side, Mahakali on the north side and idols of Ganapati on the 2nd floor. This temple is star shaped and it is 2 storied. This grand and beautiful temple of 'Hemadpanti' stands exemplry for demostration of ancient architechtural skills. This temple is in the heart of the city near old palace. Its development has been supported by the kings. Foundation of current development of Kolhapur is laid by the temple of Shri Mahalaxmi. It can be said that by the virtue of blessings of Shri Mahalaxmi, Kolhapur has got great sons like Shri Shahu Chhatrapati and Shri Rajaram Maharaj who worked for the welfare and development of Kolhapur. This temple had not been here, there would not have been Kolhapur city here as well. In kolhapur, Ambabai is the most honoured deity. Hawkers and Non Hawkers Zone Ward offices List 1 To 4