Introduction
Situated on the north-western
slope of a hill in Pune, Maharashtra, the Sri Chattushringi Devi Mandir
is one of the city’s most revered temples. Dedicated to Goddess
Chattushringi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, the temple is a symbol of
faith, devotion, and resilience. Rising 90 feet high and 125 feet wide,
the shrine requires devotees to climb 200 steps to reach the sanctum,
making the journey itself a spiritual ascent.
Legends and Origins
The temple’s origin is
tied to the devotion of Durlabhsheth Pitambardas Mahajan, a wealthy
merchant and ardent devotee of Goddess Saptashrungi Devi. As age prevented him
from traveling to Vani to worship, he prayed with sorrow. One night, the
goddess appeared in his dream and assured him: “If you cannot come to me, I
will come to you.”
Guided by her vision, he
discovered a swayambhu (self-manifested) idol of the goddess on a hill
near Pune. He constructed the temple at that site, which has since been
renovated over centuries to become the present-day Chattushringi Mandir.
Temple Features
- Main Deity:
Goddess Chattushringi (Durga).
- Premises:
Includes shrines of Lord Ganesh and eight miniature idols of
Ashtavinayaka, making it spiritually significant for devotees of both
Durga and Ganesh.
- Architecture:
A massive structure on a hill slope, blending simplicity with grandeur.
Festivals and
Celebrations
- Sharad Navratri
is the most celebrated festival here, drawing thousands of devotees.
- The temple is beautifully decorated,
and special pujas, aartis, and cultural programs are conducted during the
nine days of devotion.
Temple Timings
- Daily:
8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- 8:15 AM:
Abhishek, Pooja, Vastra
- 10:00 AM:
Morning Aarti
- 11:00 AM:
Naivedyam
- 8:00 PM:
Evening Aarti
How to Reach
- By Rail:
4 km from Shivaji Nagar Railway Station.
- By Air:
13 km from Pune International Airport.
- By Road:
Easily accessible via local transport, taxis, and buses within Pune city.
Nearby Temples
- Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
– 5 km
- Shree Chintamani Vinayaka Temple
– 31 km
Tips for Devotees
- Climb Preparation:
Be ready for the 200-step climb; elderly devotees may take breaks along
the way.
- Best Time to Visit:
During Navratri for the grand celebrations, or early mornings for
peaceful darshan.
- Offerings:
Carry flowers, fruits, and sweets for puja.
- Travel Planning:
Combine your visit with nearby temples like Dagdusheth Ganpati for a
complete spiritual tour of Pune.
The Sri Chattushringi Devi Mandir is not just a temple but a living testimony of divine compassion and faith. With its rich legend, hilltop sanctity, and vibrant Navratri celebrations, it remains one of Pune’s most cherished spiritual landmarks.