Latest news with #Mahalaxmi
Time Business News
6 days ago
- Time Business News
Exploring Kolhapur: Best & Perfect Blend of Spirituality, History & Natural Beauty
Nestled in the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains, Kolhapur is a cultural treasure trove that beautifully preserves Maharashtra's royal heritage and spiritual legacy. Known as the 'City of Temples,' this vibrant destination offers an enchanting mix of ancient shrines, majestic forts, serene lakes, and architectural marvels. From the sacred Shri Mahalaxmi Temple to the tranquil waters of Rankala Lake, Kolhapur promises a memorable experience for pilgrims, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. You can read : Places to Visit in Pune The city's royal past comes alive at the magnificent New Palace and Shalini Palace, while adventure seekers can explore the historic Panhala Fort. Spiritual seekers will find solace at unique temples like Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir and the hilltop Jyotiba Temple. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic Radhanagari Dam or explore the fascinating exhibits at Kaneri Museum. With its pleasant climate, delectable cuisine (especially the famous Kolhapuri spicy dishes), and warm hospitality, Kolhapur makes for an ideal year-round destination that captures the essence of Maharashtra's rich cultural tapestry. 1. Shri Mahalaxmi Temple Overview: The sacred Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, dating back to the 7th century, stands as one of India's most revered Shakti Peethas. This architectural marvel features intricate carvings and a magnificent idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi adorned with precious jewels. The temple complex exudes spiritual energy and attracts millions of devotees annually. How to Reach: Located in the heart of Kolhapur city, just 3 km from the railway station. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available. Significance: Believed to be one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas where Goddess Sati's body parts fell. The temple is particularly famous for its Ashtabhuja (eight-armed) idol of Mahalaxmi. Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather; Navratri festival for special celebrations. Things to Do: Attend the morning and evening aartis, explore the temple architecture, shop for religious souvenirs in nearby markets. Travel Tips: Dress conservatively, remove footwear before entering, and avoid visiting during peak afternoon hours for a more peaceful experience. 2. Rankala Lake Overview: This picturesque natural lake, spread over 107 hectares, offers a perfect escape from city life. Surrounded by lush greenery and a charming promenade, Rankala Lake features a historic Shiva temple partially submerged in its waters, adding to its mystical charm. How to Reach: Just 3 km west of Kolhapur city center. Regular auto-rickshaws and buses ply to the location. Significance: Believed to be created by the demon Rankasura's death, the lake holds religious importance and serves as Kolhapur's favorite recreational spot. Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings; monsoon season (June-September) for lush green surroundings. Things to Do: Enjoy paddle boating, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, visit the nearby Shalini Palace, savor local snacks at food stalls. Travel Tips: Carry water and sun protection during daytime visits. The lake is beautifully illuminated in the evenings. 3. New Palace (Chhatrapati Sahu Museum) Overview: This magnificent Indo-Saracenic palace, built in 1884, showcases the grandeur of Kolhapur's royal heritage. The palace now serves as a museum displaying an impressive collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and memorabilia. How to Reach: Situated near the city center, about 2 km from Kolhapur railway station. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available. Significance: The former residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, it offers insights into the region's royal history and Maratha culture. Best Time to Visit: October to February when the weather is pleasant for exploring. Things to Do: Admire the palace architecture, see the stuffed tiger in the museum, visit the Durbar Hall, explore the beautiful gardens. Travel Tips: Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Allocate at least 1-2 hours for a proper visit. 4. Binkhambi Ganesh Temple Overview: This unique temple houses a rare idol of Lord Ganesha Temple without a Piller (Binkhambi), believed to be one of its kind in India. The temple's peaceful ambiance and distinctive deity make it a must-visit spiritual site. How to Reach: Located about 5 km from Kolhapur city center. Best reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Significance: The trunk-less Ganesha idol is considered extremely auspicious and is believed to fulfill devotees' wishes. Best Time to Visit: Ganesh Chaturthi festival for special celebrations; early mornings for fewer crowds. Things to Do: Offer prayers, meditate in the serene environment, learn about the temple's unique history from priests. Travel Tips: Combine your visit with nearby Rankala Lake as they're in proximity. Maintain silence within temple premises. 5. Bhavani Mandap Overview: This historic structure near Mahalaxmi Temple serves as an important cultural landmark. The complex features a massive stone Nandi bull statue and serves as a venue for religious and cultural events. How to Reach: Adjacent to Mahalaxmi Temple, easily accessible on foot from the main temple. Significance: Once the administrative center of the Maratha empire, it's now a hub for religious and cultural activities. Best Time to Visit: During festivals or early mornings to avoid crowds. Things to Do: Admire the impressive Nandi statue, shop for traditional Kolhapuri chappals, witness cultural programs if scheduled. Travel Tips: Bargain while shopping in nearby markets. Visit the temple first before exploring Bhavani Mandap. 6. Jyotiba Temple Overview: Perched atop a hill 18 km from Kolhapur, this important pilgrimage site is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, a local deity revered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. How to Reach: Regular buses and taxis available from Kolhapur. The final ascent involves climbing about 400 steps. Significance: One of the most important religious sites in Maharashtra, especially during the annual Jyotiba Yatra. Best Time to Visit: April-May during the festival season; early mornings for pleasant weather. Things to Do: Participate in temple rituals, enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop, visit nearby smaller shrines. Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb. Carry water and avoid visiting during peak afternoon heat. 7. Panhala Fort Overview: This massive 15th-century hill fort, located about 20 km from Kolhapur, offers breathtaking views and fascinating historical insights. Spread over 7 km, it's one of Maharashtra's largest forts. How to Reach: Best reached by taxi from Kolhapur. State transport buses also available. Significance: Associated with Shivaji Maharaj's famous escape from Bijapur forces. The fort played crucial role in Maratha history. Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June-September) for lush greenery; winter months for comfortable exploration. Things to Do: Explore Sajja Kothi (where Shivaji escaped), visit Andhar Bavadi (dark well), see the Teen Darwaza, enjoy panoramic views. Travel Tips: Hire a local guide to understand the fort's history better. Wear sturdy shoes as there's considerable walking involved. 8. Radhanagari Dam Overview: Set amidst the picturesque Sahyadri ranges, this dam creates a serene reservoir surrounded by dense forests. It's part of the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary area. How to Reach: About 50 km from Kolhapur. Best accessed by private vehicle as public transport is limited. Significance: Maharashtra's first dam, built in 1907. Offers excellent opportunities for nature photography and birdwatching. Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September-November) when the surrounding waterfalls are active. Things to Do: Bird watching, nature photography, picnicking by the waterside, visit nearby Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Travel Tips: Carry food and water as facilities are limited. Monsoon visits offer spectacular views but check road conditions. 9. Kaneri Museum Overview: This underrated gem showcases an impressive collection of artifacts representing Kolhapur's rich cultural heritage, including traditional costumes, weaponry, and historical documents. How to Reach: Located about 10 km from city center. Taxis are the most convenient option. Significance: Offers deep insights into Kolhapur's royal past and cultural evolution. Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds; mornings for peaceful exploration. Things to Do: Admire the collection of royal artifacts, learn about Kolhapur's history, see traditional Maratha weaponry. Travel Tips: Allocate at least an hour for proper exploration. Photography may require permission. 10. Shalini Palace Overview: This beautiful palace built in 1934 showcases exquisite European architecture blended with Indian elements. Now functioning as a heritage hotel, it offers a glimpse into royal lifestyles. How to Reach: Near Rankala Lake, about 3 km from city center. Autos and taxis easily available. Significance: Named after Princess Shalini Raje, it represents the architectural grandeur of Kolhapur's royal era. Best Time to Visit: Evenings for beautiful lighting; winter months for pleasant weather in gardens. Things to Do: Enjoy high tea at the palace restaurant, stroll through manicured gardens, admire the architecture. Travel Tips: Non-guests may need permission to enter certain areas. The restaurant serves excellent local cuisine. Essential Travel Tips for Kolhapur Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant weather October to March offers the most pleasant weather Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are most convenient for city travel; hire taxis for outstation visits Auto-rickshaws are most convenient for city travel; hire taxis for outstation visits Must-Try Food: Kolhapuri Misal, Tambda Rassa (red curry), Pandhra Rassa (white curry), and Kolhapuri Bhadang Kolhapuri Misal, Tambda Rassa (red curry), Pandhra Rassa (white curry), and Kolhapuri Bhadang Shopping: Famous for Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional spices Famous for Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional spices Cultural Note: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites Dress modestly when visiting religious sites Language: Marathi is primary language, but Hindi and English are understood in tourist areas Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1. What makes Kolhapur a unique tourist destination? A: Kolhapur offers a perfect blend of spiritual sites (like Mahalaxmi Temple), historical landmarks (Panhala Fort), and natural beauty (Rankala Lake), along with unique cultural experiences and world-famous spicy cuisine. Q2. How many days are sufficient to explore Kolhapur? A: 2-3 days are ideal to cover major attractions, with an additional day if planning to visit nearby places like Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Q3. Is Kolhapur safe for solo female travelers? A: Yes, Kolhapur is generally safe, but standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night are recommended. Q4. What's special about Kolhapuri cuisine? A: Known for its bold flavors and spiciness, especially the mutton dishes like Tambda Rassa and Sukka Mutton. Vegetarians must try the Misal Pav. Q5. Are there good accommodation options in Kolhapur? A: Yes, ranging from budget lodges to heritage properties like Shalini Palace, with many options near the city center. Q6. What's the best way to travel between attractions in Kolhapur? A: Auto-rickshaws are convenient for city travel, while taxis are better for outstation visits like Panhala Fort or Jyotiba Temple. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
07-07-2025
- Time Business News
If You Haven't Visited These Places In Mumbai, Then Why Even Come To Mumbai?
Mumbai, the City of Dreams, is a vibrant mix of history, spirituality, beaches, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're a tourist or a local, there are certain places you MUST Places to Visit in Mumbai truly experience Mumbai's soul. From the divine Siddhivinayak Temple to the majestic Gateway of India, and from the serene Global Vipassana Pagoda to the bustling Juhu Beach, each spot has its own magic. You can Read : Best Spiritual Destinations Near Mumbai In this blog, we explore the best places to visit in Mumbai, including Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, Marine Drive, Hanging Garden, Gateway of India, CST, Juhu Beach, and Global Vipassana Pagoda. Each location is covered with an overview, how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, best nearby places to visit, and travel tips to help you make the most of your trip. One Day Mumbai Darshan by Car – Explore City Of Dreams One of Mumbai's most revered temples, Siddhivinayak Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting lakhs of devotees daily. 📍 Location: Prabhadevi 🚆 Nearest Station: Dadar (10-min walk) 🚌 Best Way: Taxi/Auto from anywhere in Mumbai Early Morning (5-7 AM) for shorter queues. for shorter queues. Avoid Tuesdays & Festivals if you dislike crowds. Seek blessings of Lord Ganesha . . Attend Aarti (5 AM & 7:30 PM) . . Donate to the temple trust. Dadar Flower Market Shivaji Park No phones allowed inside (keep them in lockers). (keep them in lockers). Dress modestly (avoid shorts/sleeveless). Best 23 Places to Visit in Mumbai Perched near the sea, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the deity of prosperity. 📍 Location: Breach Candy 🚆 Nearest Station: Mahalaxmi (5-min walk) Weekday mornings (less crowded). (less crowded). Diwali & Navratri (special decorations). Offer coconuts & flowers . . Enjoy the sea view from the temple. Haji Ali Dargah Worli Sea Face Beware of pickpockets in crowded times. in crowded times. No footwear allowed inside. One Day Mumbai Darshan Tour A stunning floating mosque in the Arabian Sea, dedicated to Sufi Saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. 📍 Location: Worli 🚆 Nearest Station: Mahalaxmi (15-min walk) Sunset (best for views & cool breeze). (best for views & cool breeze). Avoid high tide (path gets submerged). Attend Qawwali nights (Thurs-Fri) . . Enjoy street food near the entrance. Mahalaxmi Race Course Wankhede Stadium Cover your head (scarves available for rent). (scarves available for rent). No photography inside the shrine. A 3.6 km-long crescent-shaped promenade along the Arabian Sea, famous for its sunset views. 📍 Location: Nariman Point to Malabar Hill 🚆 Nearest Station: Churchgate (5-min walk) Early Morning (5-7 AM) for peaceful walks. for peaceful walks. Evening (5-7 PM) for sunset. Sit on the tetrapod rocks . . Try cutting chai & vada pav from stalls. Nariman Point Chowpatty Beach Don't swim (strong currents). (strong currents). Beware of hawkers selling overpriced items. A terraced garden on Malabar Hill, famous for its animal-shaped hedges & sunset views. 📍 Location: Malabar Hill 🚆 Nearest Station: Grant Road (10-min taxi) 6-9 AM or 4-7 PM (pleasant weather). Walk through topiary gardens . . Visit Kamala Nehru Park (next door). Banganga Tank Walkeshwar Temple Wear comfy shoes (lots of walking). (lots of walking). Carry water (limited stalls inside). A historic monument built during British rule, overlooking the Arabian Sea. 📍 Location: Apollo Bunder, Colaba 🚆 Nearest Station: CST (20-min walk) Early Morning (6-8 AM) for fewer crowds. for fewer crowds. Evening (5-7 PM) for boat rides. Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves . . Enjoy street photography. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel Colaba Causeway Bargain hard with souvenir sellers. with souvenir sellers. Avoid weekends if possible. A Gothic-style railway station and UNESCO World Heritage Site. 📍 Location: Fort, Mumbai 🚆 Nearest Station: CST (self) Daytime (10 AM-4 PM) for architecture views. Admire the Victorian architecture . . Visit Fort area's heritage buildings. Bombay High Court Kala Ghoda Art District Don't block commuters while taking photos. while taking photos. Beware of pickpockets. Mumbai's most famous beach, known for street food & celebrity sightings. 📍 Location: Juhu Tara Road 🚆 Nearest Station: Andheri (15-min taxi) Evening (5-8 PM) for sunset & food stalls. Try pav bhaji, bhel puri, & coconut water . . Enjoy horse rides & kite flying. ISKCON Temple Prithvi Theatre Don't swim (polluted water). (polluted water). Carry wet wipes (messy food). A golden pagoda dedicated to meditation, offering serenity & panoramic views. 📍 Location: Gorai 🚆 Nearest Station: Borivali (then ferry/taxi) Morning (9-11 AM) for meditation sessions. Meditate in the main dome . . Explore the Dhamma Pattana center. Maintain silence inside. inside. No photography in meditation areas. If you haven't visited these iconic Places to Visit in Mumbai, you're missing the real essence of the city! From spiritual temples to historic landmarks, and from scenic beaches to peaceful pagodas, Mumbai has something for everyone. Plan your trip wisely, respect local customs, and soak in the magic of Mumbai! November-February (cool weather, ideal for sightseeing). Yes, but avoid isolated areas at night. Yes, if planned efficiently (group nearby locations). Gateway of India, Marine Drive & CST. Depends – street food & local trains are cheap, hotels can be pricey. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Hans India
01-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
TGSRTC embraces digital future for enhanced convenience to public
Hyderabad: Telangana Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar emphasised that the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) is advancing towards delivering enhanced and high-quality services to the public by embracing modern technology. The Minister highlighted that RTC personnel are now offering quicker services with the implementation of the Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) in Hyderabad. On Monday, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar conducted an inspection of the Musheerabad depot alongside TGSRTC MD, VC Sajjanar. He took the time to personally review the execution of the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) and digital payment systems as part of the AFCS initiative. The conductors demonstrated to him the simplicity and efficiency of this system at the operational level. The Minister stressed that the TGSRTC is introducing innovative reforms that are unmatched anywhere else in India. He highlighted that the Mahalaxmi free travel initiative for women, proudly launched by the state government, is significantly benefiting the RTC financially. 'The RTC has issued 191 crore zero tickets to date, resulting in a remarkable saving of Rs 6,300 crore for women,' he stated. Ponnam Prabhakar expressed his satisfaction regarding the implementation of the AFCS in RTC buses across Hyderabad. 'For the past three months, the RTC has been successfully implementing AFCS in its buses. On average, 20 per cent of passengers are utilising this service daily. The RTC plans to extend this system to all buses soon,' said Ponnam Prabhakar. The Minister also announced plans to extend RTC services to new residential colonies within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) to improve last-mile connectivity. New bus routes will be introduced to make public transport more accessible and commuter-friendly.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
BMC plaques at 100 landmarks: Plan and execution poles apart, say locals
Mumbai: Over a year after BMC's legacy plaque project at 100 landmarks in D ward to promote its rich historical and cultural heritage, locals have claimed that the vision and the execution have been poles apart—that not only are footpaths now more cluttered but the signage too are difficult to read. The ward is home to some of Mumbai's most iconic institutions like Jinnah House, Royal Opera House, Sophia College, and Babulnath and Mahalaxmi temples. The Rs 18-lakh project initially proposed installation of physical plaques on or near the landmarks, but due to concerns raised by some property owners over attaching signage directly to these buildings, BMC eventually opted for a more flexible approach: setting up slender poles on footpaths bearing the name of the institution, along with a QR code. Scanning the QR code takes users to a webpage detailing the site's significance. BMC began installation of the poles in Nov 2023 and completed it by March 2024. "This was a pilot project. The poles are of an average height of a person," said an official. You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai Some residents pointed out that Mumbai's footpaths are already cluttered and the poles have only added to the chaos. "Just having the name on a pole serves little purpose—there should have been a brief history included. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2 & 3 Premium BHK starting ₹ 2 Cr* at Siddha Sky, Wadala Siddha Sky Learn More Undo Most of the areas that are part of the project are busy thoroughfares where people can't stop to scan a QR code," said Sarosh Bana, who resides in D ward's Malabar Hill. Mukul Mehra of Nepeansea Road Citizens Forum said such projects should involve locals in the planning process. "The QR codes are placed so high that scanning them is inconvenient. Even a few lines of history printed on the poles would have been more effective. People aren't likely to stop on a busy street to scan a code and read a webpage. This concept would have worked far better in public parks, where people have the time and inclination to engage with such content," he said. BMC officials said the shift was necessary to ensure that the project could move forward without delays. "Our goal is to raise awareness about the historical importance of specific locations in D ward. The digital format also allows us to include more detailed information than a small plaque could," said an official. Tardeo resident Dr Nilesh Baxi said the concept was promising but its execution has fallen short. "The font is so small that you have to get really close to read it, and even then, it's difficult if there's low light. In many places, these poles have been placed right next to existing road signs with much larger lettering, making them redundant," he said.
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Time of India
Four arrested for abduction & assault
Indore: Four habitual offenders, involved in a violent abduction and assault incident in Dewas Naka area on Sunday, were arrested. According to the complaint filed by Ummed Singh, 60, a resident of Shraddha Shri Colony, the incident occurred on June 15 while he was at his shop in Dewas Naka. At around 3:30 pm, Rajendra Jat, a former transporter and his associates arrived in two CNG auto-rickshaws and assaulted him with sticks before forcibly abducting him. They continued to thrash him in the moving vehicle and took him to a secluded area near Star Chauraha, where the assault continued. Singh reported that Jat demanded Rs 15 lakh from him and threatened to kill him if he failed to pay. After the assault, the accused fled, leaving Singh unconscious. Later two passers-by found him and took him to the police. Following his report on Wednesday, a case was registered at Lasudia police station under various sections of the BNS. ACP Aditya Patle formed a special team led by Lasudia TI Taresh Soni. The team collected CCTV evidence, tracked the auto-rickshaws and with the help of informers, arrested four accused — Praveen Jat (25), Ajay alias Bakra Irva (28), Sonu alias Kaddu Bhagaura (38), and Awadhesh alias Golu Verma (25), all residents of Khajrana. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bookings open at 7 Mahalaxmi starting 6.76 Cr* (All Inc.) 7 Mahalaxmi, Runwal Group Book Now Undo The accused confessed to conspiring with Jat to abduct the trader due to financial strain. Both autorickshaws used in the crime were seized. Police are searching for the remaining accused. All arrested individuals have a criminal history, including cases of assault, violations under arms act and offences under the NDPS and Excise Acts, across multiple police stations in Indore.
