Mumba Devi Temple

History and the story of Mumba Devi Temple

The history of Mumba Devi as a pilgrimage goes back to the 14th century when the local populace started worshipping Goddess Mumba. The first  temple was built in 1675. There are two  stories connected with this temple. Mata Parvati was still preparing to take the role of Maha Kali or Adishakti. Lord Shiva advised Her to learn the art of concentration and perseverance. In order to learn these arts, He told Mata Parvati to take birth among the fishermen of earth. He said that would be the best place to learn with practicality. Mata Parvati took birth in a fisherman’s family and was then known as Matsyaa. She grew up learning the art of fishing and all that goes with it. When Her learning was complete, the time for Her to go back came. At that time, Lord Shiva appeared as a fisherman and married Her. By now the fishermen had realised She was no ordinary mortal. They requested Her to stay here and bless them forever. Mata Parvati agreed and transformed Herself into an idol that was duly enshrined. She came to be known as Mumba Aai (Mother) and that is also how Mumbai got its name. Mumba Devi became the family deity for all the fisherfolk on the seven islands of Mumbai. These include the Kolis and the Agris.

The second story from the Puranas tells us of a demon named Mumbarak. He terrorised the area now known as Mumbai. This demon had obtained boons of invincibility from Lord Brahma and was now misusing them. To end this, Lord Shiva and Vishnu created a Devi from their own bodies and sent Her to kill Mumbarak. The Devi did as instructed and vanquished Mumbarak. Before dying the demon asked this place to be named after him. The Goddess agreed and named Herself Mumba Devi  and Mumbai became Her abode. Mumba Devi gained prominence among the local fishermen and salt collectors. She then became their family deity.

As per written records and texts it can be confirmed there was a temple on one of these seven islands in the 14th century CE. It was known as Mumba Devi. In later years the Portuguese arrived, followed by the British and the French. The Portuguese called this place Bombay, which means ‘Good Bay’. The seven islands were given to the British as part of a royal dowry and were now officially known as Bombay. In 1675 there existed a temple at the spot called Bori Bunder. It was shifted to its current location in Bhuleshwar 1739. Since then worship has been uninterrupted. Over the years the temple has been renovated and preserved by donations from devotees. In the sanctum, the idol of Mumba Devi can be seen with a silver crown and fine jewellery. The altar is always decorated with Marigold flowers. One unique feature of the Goddess is that Her mount is changed everyday. On Monday She has Nandi the Bull, an elephant on Tuesdays, a rooster on Wednesdays, an eagle on Thursdays, a swan on Fridays, a tiger on Saturdays and a lion on Sundays. All these mounts are made of silver. There are idols of Lord Shiva, Hanumanji, Ganeshji, Balaji and Jagannath in the temple. Mata Annapurna can also be seen within the temple. Mumba Devi is the Patron Devi of Mumbai, the city that never sleeps.

Importance of Mumba Devi Temple

Mumba Devi Temple is an ancient pilgrimage and particularly revered not only by the fisherfolk and Agris but by most citizens of Mumbai. Mumba Devi is the family deity of the Kolis and the protector of Mumbai. It is one of Mumbai’s iconic heritages.

Best time to visit Mumba Devi Temple

Mumbai can be visited all through the year, but winter months are the best time to visit.

How to reach Mumbai 

The nearest railway station is CST Mumbai railway station which is well connected to major cities in India and is about 1.7 km from the temple.

The nearest airport is Mumbai Airport and is about 23 km from the temple.

Puja in Mumba Devi Temple

Pandit Ji in Mumba Devi Temple

Accomodation in Mumba Devi Temple

• Mumbai – SML Arogya Bhavan Sanatorium
• Mumbai – Dakhibai Singhania Dharamshala
• Mumbai – C. T. Parikh Khadayata Bhavan

Nearby Attractions

• Mahalakshmi Temple
• Siddhivinayak Temple
• Gateway of India.

Temple Location