Journalism of Courage
During Navratri,the steps of this temple in Pune are crowded with women,their heads covered with colourful dupattas and men wearing spic and span outfits. Be it sun or rain,the devotees climb over 100 steps to reach the temple. The Chaturshringi temple,which is considered as a symbol of power and faith in the city is one of the most important landmarks in Pune.
The temple,which is around 90 feet high and 125 feet wide,is located on the slope of a hill on Senapati Bapat Road and is said to be built during the reign of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The popular temple derives its name from a mountain with four peaks.
According to the legends,a rich merchant,who was a devout follower of the Goddess Chaturshringi,became too old and ill to travel and visit her temples located far and wide. One night,the goddess herself appeared in his dream and directed him to a mountain situated in the north-west side of Pune. On digging at the designated place a natural statue or a swayambhu idol of the Goddess was found,and a temple was built there.
Now,the fair held at the foothill of the temple every year during Navratri,draws thousands of people who gather to worship the Goddess Chaturshringi. The premises also houses temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesh which includes eight miniature idols of Ashtavinayaka. These small temples are located on the four separate hillocks. The temple is maintained by the Chaturshringi Devasthan Trust.
Prajakta Hebbar
