|
Mahalaxmi Temple, Dahanu :
Here in Dahanu, there are two temples of Goddess Mahalaxmi. One is situated on National
Highway Eight (NH-8) at Charoti Naka, and other, the main one is situated on the
mountain called Mahalaxmi Hill. The Goddess Mahalaxmi is the family deity of tribes,
so during the festive period, the tribals arrange taarpa dance. Every year a festival
is held here called ‘Mahalaxmi Yatra’ for fifteen days starting from Hanuman Jayanti.
|
|
Shitladevi Temple
:
The Shitladevi Temple is located in Palghar, near to Kelva beach. This old temple
is popular for the unique idol of Goddess present in the temple. Thousands of devotees
visit the temple during religious fairs and processions held every year.
|
|
Ram Temple
:
The ancient Ram temple lies in proximity to the Shitladevi Temple at Kapad Bazar,
in Palghar District. As per the legend of this temple, Lord Rama along with his
brother Laxmana was imprisoned by Mahiravan and Ahiravan, and were later on rescued
by Lord Hanuman. It was in the year 1994 that the temple was renovated again. Ram
Navami being one of the most important events held here. Thursdays and Saturdays
are the two important days in a week when special poojas and artis are held.
|
|
Jivdani Mata Temple :
It is famous in the country for its only temple of Goddess Jivdani which is located
around 1375 steps above the ground level, atop a hill in the eastern part of the
city. People from far away places come to take the blessings of the Goddess. It
is too crowded especially during the Navratri festival. Many people in the region
especially the Aagri, Mangelas, the Kolis and the Bhandaris, worship the goddess
as their family deity. The Papadkhandi dam situated at the foothills, is one of
the major sources of fresh water in this location.
|
|
St. Peters Church
:
This church was developed in the early part of the 20th century. Fr. Ismail Da Costa,
built a hut chapel in 1919 near Arnala beach. Later with help from local people
he constructed the Church of St. Peter. Archbishop Joaquim Lima (Archbishop of Bombay)
blessed the church on 27 Dec 1931. Other historical churches in the neighbourhood
are St. James Church (Agashi) and Church of Holy Spirit (Nandakhal).
|
|
St. James Church
:
The St. James church located at Agashi on the road connecting Virar and Arnala,
was first built in 1558. Portuguese were the best known seafarers among the European
clans who built homes near the sea wherever they went. 'Agashi', the then small
port village was one such place. Owing to its nearness to the sea and availability
of wood from the jungles, which the Portuguese needed for boat building and constructions,
Agashi soon became a permanent settlement for the Portuguese. The St. James Church
that came into being during this early period was built using stones and bricks.
During the raids of Marathas of 1739 it was mostly destroyed. The Marathas however
permitted the priests to carry on religious ceremonies in the region and the church
was rebuilt by 1760. In the year 1900 the church was renovated.
|
|