Historical Significance

In ancient times, the coastal villages of Guhagar frequently faced invasions by sea pirates. To seek protection, the villagers prayed to Mahishasuramardini. The goddess fought against these pirates, drove them away, and safeguarded the village. After the battle, she gave a divine vision (darshan) to the Datar family of Guhagar, revealing her presence at a particular spot. As a sign, they found a pearl from her nose ring stuck to a leaf of a Rui (Calotropis) tree. This pearl, approximately the size of a fingertip, is still preserved in the temple and displayed to devotees during Navratri.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 13th century. Due to repeated invasions in the past, it was decided to construct the temple away from its original location for safety. The goddess instructed that the temple should resemble a house from the outside but have a sanctum (Garbhagriha) with a dome inside. This unique architectural style remains intact. The temple is supported by four large pillars, which were retained even after recent renovations.

Shri Durgadevi is not alone but is part of a Panchayatan (five-deity setup). Surrounding the main shrine are small temples dedicated to Surya, Laxmi-Narayan, Shiva, and Ganesha. There is also an ancient Ashwattha tree (Peepal tree) with a Surya temple beneath it.

To the left of the temple is a large pond with water throughout the year, where generations of Guhagar locals have learned to swim. The goddess is worshipped twice a day with Shodashopachara Pooja (16-step ritual).

A unique tradition is followed in the temple:

• In the morning, the goddess is adorned as a married woman (Chi. Sou. Kan.), wearing a special Mangalsutra with a muhurta mani (gemstone) and a small cup.

• In the evening, the goddess is dressed as a young girl (Kumari), and the Mangalsutra is removed.

According to legend, the goddess was once on her way to get married but was delayed. By the time she arrived, the auspicious muhurta (wedding moment) had passed. Heartbroken, she returned in her original form as a Kumari. Even today, this tradition continues in her temple.

Temple Structure and Rituals

Navratri Celebrations

During Navratri, the goddess is adorned with Rupak—a silver mask and weapons are placed on her idol. The original idol is covered with cloth, and the decorated form is worshipped instead. Every morning and evening, the goddess is draped in a new saree, creating a mesmerizing divine appearance.

A Keertan (devotional singing) is performed daily in the temple. The temple has a historical Keertankar’s seat linked to Saint Tukaram’s lineage. It is believed that the goddess personally attends the Keertan, so a seat is placed for her. The carpet on which she sits dates back to 1687 and features a golden-thread-embroidered peacock design, which appears lifelike, resembling modern 3D artwork. This intricate craftsmanship has remained intact for over 350 year.

The goddess has two sister deities:

1. Buddhal Village Goddess (black stone idol)

2. Murud-Dapoli Goddess (carved in white marble)

3. Guhagar Durgadevi (carved in sacred Gandaki stone)

During Navratri, an invitation is sent to her two sisters for a special ritual called Gondhal. A traditional fire lamp ceremony is performed using coconut shells, dry husks, cow dung cakes, and ghee wicks, with pieces of tender coconut offered as prasadam. The Gondhal chant invokes the presence of the deities.

Goddess Durgadevi’s Sisters

In Upper Pat, locals still use Devi’s Pillar as a landmark for giving directions. Instead of saying “four houses away,” they say “four Kavadis (units) away from Devi’s Pillar.”

My childhood was spent in this sacred place, and certain memories always resurface, bringing nostalgia.

If you visit Guhagar, make sure to visit Shri Durgadevi Temple and, most importantly, take darshan of Devi’s Pillar—the original spot where she manifested.

Cultural Influence