- Special Features
Foundation Year2nd centurySthala TreeTheerthamRathamArchitectureOther SpecialityThe temple is a prime spot of worship for the Koli people and Agri People. But along with the Koli (fisherman) folk, Aai Ekvira is worshipped by many some high caste, people especially those belonging to the CKP & Daivadnya Brahmins & somewhat Bhandari and kunbi caste as their presiding family deity, Kuldaivat. This temple complex originally consisted of three alike shrines built in a row all facing west. Of these, the central and the southern shrines are preserved in full and the rest of the structures are preserved only on plan and that too brought to light in the clearance work. Maha-mandapa, varsha-mandapa and gopura are situated in front of these three shrines and these three shrines are surrounded by sixteen shrines of additional parivara devatas. The devotees throng the temple on all occasions of Navaratri and Chaitri Navratra to worship and celebrate.
- Sthala Puran
According to the legend, this temple was constructed by the Pandavas during their exile in the forest (araṇyavāsam). Once when Pandavas visited this holy place, Ekvīrā Mātā appeared before them. She instructed them to build a temple for her. To test the kārya Diksha (work ethic) of the Pandavas, the Goddess laid a condition that the construction must be done overnight. The Pandavas then indeed built this beautiful temple in one night. Impressed by the bhakti (devotion) of the Pandavas, the Goddess blessed them and granted the boon that they will not be discovered by anybody during their ajñātavāsam (secret exile). The Goddess is an avatār of Renuka Devi. However, the carbon dating states that the shrines were developed over two periods – from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD, and from the 5th century AD to the 10th century.
- Architecture
- Alankar of Deity
The goddess is decorated with various gold jewellery , flowers and saree.
- Prayers and BenefitsSpecial Vratas and PrayersOfferings to Deity
Animal sacrifices are also offered in this temple, including the sacrifice of goat / chickens. It is believed that the Goddess has magical powers.
Stotras and Mantras
- FestivalsNavratri, chaitra Palkhi Festival (march, April)
- Sodasha Upcharas
- Prasadhas
- Social ActivitiesAnnadhanMarriageEar BoringHead ShaveDanaasEducation FacilitiesSocial DrivesOther Activities
- Arjita Seva
- Tags