New Delhi, February 19: The history of the Shakti Peeths and Siddh Peeths across the country is deeply rooted in our ancient texts and stories. In Maharashtra, there exists a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, renowned for its miracles that draw devotees from afar. This temple has also played a significant role in shaping India’s history. We are referring to the revered Tulja Bhavani Temple.
Located in Tuljapur, in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, the powerful Shakti Peeth of Goddess Bhavani is unique. Here, the goddess is not worshipped as an abstract idol; rather, she is revered as a living entity. It is believed that for 21 days each year, the goddess herself leaves the sanctum sanctorum to rest in her chamber. The idol in the temple is considered self-manifested, and worship is conducted with the belief that she is alive. This is the first idol in the country made from Shaligram stone.
Tulja Bhavani Temple is counted among the most powerful temples in the country, as it was here that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj received a miraculous sword to fight against the Mughal army. The goddess is the family deity of Shivaji Maharaj, who always sought her blessings before heading into battle.
Legend has it that during his solitary struggle for Swaraj, he prayed to the goddess for victory. In response, Goddess Tulja appeared and gifted him the Bhavani sword. This temple stands as a testament to the living faith that has altered the course of history.
For the people of Maharashtra, the Tulja Bhavani Temple symbolizes devotion. Each year, during Navratri, a large number of devotees flock to the temple. Goddess Tulja Bhavani is believed to bestow the power to vanquish enemies. The temple, constructed in the Hemadpanthi architectural style, was established in the 12th century by Maratha Mahamandaleshwar Maradev of the Kadamba dynasty.
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