While exploring the religious places of island city of Mumbai I cannot forget to take you to one of the ancient temples of city known as Mumba Devi Temple which is actually given the name to city, Mumbai. As the name suggests this ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to goddess Mumba who is considered the local embodiment of mother Goddess (Devi). If we go into the details of the word Mumba we come to know that it is a Sanskrit word created by adding two words which are Maha and Amba that means great Mother thus making Mumba. In Marathi language mother is called Ai and if we add I to Mumba it becomes Mumbai. the current Mumba Devi Temple is located in Zaveri Bazaar in Bhuleshwar area of South Mumbai.Actually the original Mumba Devi Temple was built in late seventeenth century in 1675 at the main landing area of previous Bori Bunder creek by a Hindu lady whose name was Mumba. The temple was built next to the north wall of English fort Saint George. But the creek as well as the fort both demolished and in ruins since then. The current structure is built after 1737 at Zaveri Bazaar.Agri, the salt collectors and Kolis, the fishermen both were the original inhabitants of island city of Mumbai and they worshipped Goddess Mumba since a long time. They still worship her at the current temple in south Mumbai. Her image is created using a black stone but it does not have any mouth as it depicts mother earth. Situated amidst the overcrowded steel and cloth markets this ancient temple is quite significant historical religious place not only for Hindus but for other locals and tourists too. Hundreds of devotees and explorers pay a visit to this sacred temple daily. The goddess in the temple symbolises the power and thus it is a Shakti temple of city.The image of Goddess is adorned with a silver crown, a golden necklace and a nose stud. On the left side of the Goddess you will see the image of Goddess Annapurna on a peacock and at the front of main deity there is an image of tiger who is the carrier of Goddess. The main deity is placed on an altar and surrounded by marigold flowers. Other idols in the temple are Hanuman and Ganesh. There is a legend attached to the temple of Mumba Devi. It says that a demon named Mumbaraka used to terrorise the locals of city. The local folks prayed to Lord Brahma to give protect them from the demon. A goddess with eight arms sent to rescue the locals and when she defeated the demon, Mumbaraka asked the goddess to take his name and created a shrine in her honour. The Mumba Devi Temple is considered quite sacred and it is said that who so ever pray here honestly will get his or wish fulfilled.Apart from getting the blessings of goddess Mumba Devi one can enjoy the shopping as in the area you will find various stalls selling several interesting items of religious significance like copper bracelets, rings, brass lingams, rudraksha malas, divine pictures, saffron, incense, objects used in puja, etc. Crawford Market famous for fresh fruits and vegetables is situated close by. Chowpatty Beach is another interesting place nearby to explore.Aarti timingsIn the morning and evening time one can attend the aarti at the Mumba Devi Temple.Opening daysThe temple is closed on Mondays but rest of the week it is open to all.AccessibilityOne can reach here using taxis, auto rickshaw or buses. Charni Road Station is the nearest station at a distance of 10 minutes from Bhuleshwar.RUCHI MAHAJANзайм на карту без отказов круглосуточновзять кредит онлайн