MOTHER MAHALAKSHMI OF KOLHAPUR

THE TEMPLE

Of the many places of worship, such as the Jain Mandirs, Buddhist stupas etc. Mahalakshmi shrine, the focal point of irresistable attraction arrests the attention of the visitors by its tall towers, lofty arches, huge mandaps and grand dipmalas even from a distance. As the entire structure is built on the elevated place called Brahmapuri, it is an important landmark visible for miles around, although cement jungles arc trying to conceal her grandeur. Its high towers jutting into sky over the tall buildings give it a conspicuous imposing appearance. This star attraction as the principal centre of hectic religious activity starts from early dawn and goes up to late hour in the night. Built in the form of a cross, it goes by the architectural name of Hemapanti and it is a typical specimen of Medieval style of Deccan temples. It is surrounded by a massive prakara with stately entrances adorned with tall towers. Entering through the Mahadwara facing the west, the visitors see rows of dipmalas on either side of the gate. A big mandap called Garuda Mandap of huge dimensions with square pillars and foliated arches, built in the characteristic Maratha architectural style comes into sight first. Another Mandap housing a four foot high Ganesh image lies adjacent to it. 

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