
Located in the north of Malabar Hill on Bhulabhai Desai Road in Mumbai, Shri Mahalakshmi Temple is a magnificent tourist attraction due to its beauty, mythological importance, and proximity to the seashore, as well as its impressive Dhwjstambha.The Mahalakshmi Temple precinct is situated within the Municipal ‘D’ ward, bordered by the sea on its western and northern edges and Bhulabhai Desai Road on its east and south. The temple is dedicated to three deities: Shri Mahakali or Durga, the destroyer of demons; Shri Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth; and Shri Mahasaraswati, the goddess of learning.During the Chaitra and Ashwin Navaratra in March/April and September/October respectively, the sun’s rays fall on the deities for a few minutes, adding to the temple’s unique charm.
Upon entering the temple compound, visitors are greeted by a 10.60-meter-high single wooden block covered in silver sheets, known as the Dhwajstambh, and a stone-carved Deepmala. The Sabhamandap inside houses a lion fixed in the center, covered in silver, facing the deities. The Sabhamandap’s area facing the deities is approximately 12.10 meters by 9.10 meters, with 27 apex tops and two wooden idols of Jay-Vijay covered in silver located on either side of the main door of Gabhara.
Small idols of Shri Ganpati and Vithal-Rukhamini can be found on two sides outside Gabhara, or the Sancto Sanatorium, which is about 11 meters by 11 meters. Upon entering Gabhara, devotees first see the three deities (Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasarswati) and Annapurna on the top of the simhasana, which is beautifully carved and partially covered in carved silver sheets. The temple’s Kalash or top is about 15 meters high. The main gate of Gabhara features a “Shreeyantra” or “Laxmi Yantra,” and the entire Simhasan in the Gabhara is covered in beautifully carved silver sheets with elephants and peacocks on the front side pillars.
Mahalaxmi Temple is a significant religious location in Mumbai and a must-see attraction for anyone with an interest in Hinduism or Indian culture.
How to reach
By Road: Tourists can take a bus or cab to reach the temple