Mumbadevi Temple: Discovering the Ancient History of the Goddess Who Named Mumbai
The incredible speed of South Mumbai—the rush of local trains and the roar of the markets—often makes the city feel like a soulless machine of money and steel. The challenge is finding Mumbai’s heart, which is often buried under layers of new construction. When you search for the city’s oldest temple, you aren’t just looking for a place to pray; you are looking for a “solution” to the modern jungle—a connection to Mumbai’s original identity.
The Story of Mumbadevi: From the Fort to the Bazaar The answer to your search lies in the crowded, colorful lanes of Bhuleshwar. Here stands the Mumbadevi Temple, a place of such historical importance that the city of Mumbai literally takes its name from the Goddess worshipped here—Mumba Devi
History of Mumba Devi: is a story of resilience. The temple’s origins trace back to the 14th or 15th century, but it was formally built around 1675 near Bori Bunder, the area where the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) stands today. However, as the British began to expand their fort and city walls around 1737, the original temple had to be moved. The devotees did not let their faith fade; they rebuilt the temple at its current location in Bhuleshwar, where it has stood as the city’s protector for nearly 300 years.
Exploring the Heart of Bhuleshwar: The temple is located on Mumba Devi Marg, right in the middle of Zaveri Bazaar, India’s largest jewelry market. Walking toward the temple is an experience for all the senses. You will pass through lanes filled with the scent of jasmine and orange marigold flowers, the glitter of gold, and the rhythmic sounds of temple bells.
Planning Your Peaceful Visit: If you are planning to visit, the best time to experience the true energy of the temple is on a Tuesday or a Friday, which are considered the most auspicious days for the Goddess. However, because these days are very popular, the crowds can be quite large. For those who want a more peaceful and quiet “darshan,” arriving early in the morning between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM is the perfect solution. During this time, the air is cooler, and you can see the morning rituals without the heavy rush of the market.
HOW TO GO THERE:
Train: Take a local train to Marine Lines Station or Charni Road Station (Western Line). From there, it is about a 10-15 minute taxi or rickshaw ride through the busy market area of Bhuleshwar. Alternatively, CSMT (Central/Harbour Line) is also nearby, roughly a 15-minute drive away.
Bus: Many buses serve the Kalbadevi and Bhuleshwar areas. A transit journey from your current location takes approximately 34 minutes.
Taxi/Car: A direct drive takes about 23 minutes via Pathe Bapurao Marg. Be aware that the streets surrounding the temple are narrow and extremely crowded, especially during peak market hours.
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