Mumbadevi Temple is a renowned ancient temple dedicated to 'Goddess Mumbadevi'. This beautiful temple is situated in the heart of Mumbai and was built in the 18^th century. The 'Koli' fishermen or the early inhabitants of Mumbai greatly respect and honor Goddess Mumbadevi and consider her as their guardian. Goddess Mumbadevi is recognized as 'Goddess Shakti' or the Goddess of Power. Today, this elegant temple is located amidst the crowded steel, cloth markets and jewelry shops in Bhuleshwar, Mumbai. Mumbai City derives its name from the Goddess Mumbadevi and therefore, this Temple is truly an important religious place for the dwellers of this beautiful city called Mumbai. Mumbadevi is also considered as the patron Goddess of Mumbai city. Mumbadevi was the patron Goddess of Agri (salt collectors) and Kolis (Fishermen), the original inhabitants of the seven islands of Bombay. The word “Mumba” was derived from two words “Maha” and “Amba”, which means “great mother.” The fishermen regard her as their protector and as ‘Maha Shakti”.

History

It is believed that The Mumbadevi Temple was first built in Bori Bunder in and around 1675. The Temple was destroyed and reconstructed at Zaveri Bazaar, Bhuleshwar in the year 1737. Since ancient times, the Koli fishermen and the Dravidians offered their prayers to Mumbadevi at this Temple and still continue to do so.

Legend

It is believed that according to a legend, Mumbadevi, an eight-armed Goddess, was sent by 'Lord Brahma' to vanquish an evil demon known as 'Mumbaraka', who terrorized the locals. After his defeat, Mumbaraka fell on his knees and begged the Goddess to take his name. It is said that Mumbaraka was also given the permission to build a beautiful temple dedicated to Mumbadevi. Thus, the magnificent shrine of Mumbadevi Temple was built by Mumbaraka in the heart of the Mumbai City.