Shree Karveer Nivasini Ambabai (Mahalaxmi) Hakkadar Shri Poojak, Kolhapur.

History of the temple

From lot of references in various Pooranas, Granthas and other Historical literature it can be said that this temple exists for ages. The earliest references of this temple say that the JIRNODHAR of this temple was done by Rishi Agasti. According to several Granthas like the Karveer Mahatmya the period of Rishi Agasti's visit to Karveer goes back to approximately 2000 years. So it can be said that this temple is more than 2000 years old. It can be also proved from our existence which is proved on paper to be of more than 1000 years.

Every dynasty that ruled this area has contributed to various structures of this temple and the premises. The Nagas, The Yadavas, The Marathas all gave their service to the goddess by either expanding the structures or by donating invaluable ornaments.

There are historical evidence that the MAHADWAR or the main door was built by SINGHANDEO YADAV through his officer PALAM. The NAGARKHANA was built on around 1340 A.D. by the Shankaracharya of Karveer Peeth. The SHIKHAR (Peaks) were repaired alongwith the construction of DEEPMALA and small rooms for pilgrims (OVARYA) in 17th century. At that time the Karveer Sansthan (i.e. the royal state of Karveer) was under the rule of Chhatrapati Sambhaji.

The first huge bell situated above the Northern entrance, which is named as GHATI DARVAJA after it, was bestowed by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj of Satara. This bell was won by CHIMAJI AAPPA the famous and corageous brother of THORALA BAJIRAO PESHVA in the battel of Tarapoor. Most of the ancient ornaments, which are used in daily POOJAS, are donated by Chh.Sambhaji of Karveer Sansthan. The GARUD MANDAP, which is the place of most of the functions in various festivals and which is a recent extension was built in 1850. The premises also contains some unique temples like the NAV-GRAHA mandap, The DASHAVTARs etc. which have very amusing sculptures and carvings.