History states that before going to war with Mughals, Shivaji, went to seek MA Bhavani's blessings. Ma Bhavani appeared n presented a sword to Shivaji n with that sword Shivaji won many wars.
The legend says MA Bhavani came to Earth n since ancient times resided at Tuljapur. A beautiful small black stone idol represents Her.
The temple is located about three or four floors below street level. At street level, from outside, it looks like a fortress. Early morning Bhishekam n throughout the day Aarati are renowned rituals. General darshan is available throughout the day. Prior arrangements gives a peaceful darshan. The long walk n steep stairs to main alter are for good physically fit people. However couple of dollies are available for physically challenged and senior citizens.
Tuljapur is temple city. Current city entirely depends on the temple. The city's n residents' existence is on the temple tourists. Hundreds of businesses of different nature's thrive in the name of MaBhavani.
Keeping aside the pilgrimage n devotional attributes n personal feeling, the place is a dump. It's been ages since the city got a good basic sweep. We felt so disgusted walking to the temple as we hand to cruise through trash. To enter city, Money is collected by local municipality. What they do with the funds is a mystery. There is no sense of responsibility. People bring out trash of all sorts from their houses n establishments n dump on roads. A simple feeling that the city is the home of their beloved MaBhavani, and they should keep their Ma's abode physically clean before seeking spiritual blessings, is just enough to get a change. There is no spiritual feeling.
We stayed at Hotel Darshan, Near new Carpark. Staff are very helpful. Rooms are clean. Sanitized. Clean bedsheets. Good bathroom. Our dog was accommodated on conditions. They are getting their restaurant ready. Since the food was generally very bad every where, in other restaurants, we hope theirs will be different.
