Shree Jyotiba Devsthan Jyotiba Dongar Kolhapur
🖼️ Photo Gallery
🛕 Temple Info
Perched majestically atop the Jyotiba mountain range at an elevation of 3,100 feet, Shree Jyotiba Devsthan—revered as Wadi Ratnagiri—is located approximately 17 km northwest of Kolhapur city, Maharashtra. This sacred site is an architectural and spiritual marvel, built in the Hemadpanthi style from black basalt stone. A cluster of three temples, Shree Jyotiba stands as a living testimony to Maharashtra's rich devotional traditions and cultural grandeur.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, a divine incarnation representing the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and is deeply revered by lakhs of devotees, especially during major festivals. Surrounded by scenic beauty and an aura of divine power, the temple offers a spiritually elevating experience for pilgrims and seekers alike.
🌸Festivals & Celebrations
Chaitra Purnima Yatra
- Celebrated in April (Chaitra Purnima).
- Attended by over 6–7 lakh devotees.
- Marked by rituals like Maha Abhishekam, Mahapuja, Dhuparati, and Pancharati.
- Features Sasan Kathi, a sacred reed dance, palanquins, camel and horse processions, and fireworks.
- Climax includes the symbolic marriage of Goddess Yamai (Jyotiba's sister) with Jamadagni Rishi.
Navratrotsav
- Celebrated with Mahapoojas built in Sohan Lotus Petals signifying Saguna & Nirguna devotion.
- Special rituals include Kamalbhairav Mahapooja, Jagar on the 7th day with all-night temple opening, Palanquin Yatra, and Simollanghan on Vijayadashami.
- Devotees witness the divine presence of Shree Jyotiba in Garudarudh form amidst soulful bhajans and lamps.
💫 Importance
Shree Jyotiba is regarded as a composite avatar of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, born from the divine flame invoked by Goddess Mahalaxmi to annihilate the demon Kolhasur. The deity symbolizes valor, divine justice, and cosmic harmony. Known also as Kedareshwar, the Jyotiba deity holds a central place in the spiritual consciousness of Maharashtra.
The temple gains immense significance during the Chaitra Purnima Yatra, when lakhs of devotees climb the mountain, chanting "चांग भलं जोतिबा", filling the air with divine fervor and turning the hilltop a vibrant pink with gulal. Another key celebration, Navratrotsav, draws thousands with rituals rooted in Vedic tradition, expressing deep devotion and spiritual symbolism.
Lord Jyotiba is venerated as the Kuldaivat (family deity) or home god of countless families across Maharashtra and beyond. People regard him as "The King of Deccan", a protector deity who grants strength, justice, and blessings. The temple serves as a powerful beacon of faith where devotees surrender their worries and celebrate the divine grace of Jyotiba.
📜 History
The original shrine was established by Naavji, a devout follower from Kival village near Karad. In 1730 CE, the temple was grandly renovated by Maharaja Ranoji Shinde of Gwalior.
The mythological narrative tells of Lord Jyotiba being born out of Adishakti’s call, emerging as a radiant 8-year-old child wielding divine weapons. He is considered the embodiment of sage Jamadagni’s anger and the brilliance of twelve suns. The twelve Jyotirlingas around the hill were established by Shri Kedarnath, earning the temple the title Jyotirling.
🪔 Pooja Timings
| Time Ritual | |
| 4:00 AM | Temple opens with bell ringing |
| 5:00 AM | Padhyapuja & Kakadarati |
| 8:00 AM | Panchamrut Abhishekam |
| 9:00 AM | Khadipuja / Mahapuja with gold offerings |
| 9:30 AM | Dhuparati & Mahanaivedyam (holy food) |
| 3:00 PM | Bath, Abhishekam & Baithi Puja |
| 7:00 – 9:00 PM | Simple Viragi Puja, Dhuparati & Shejarati |
| 11:00 PM | Temple closes |
🚌 Transport Options
By Road
- The temple is 15 km from Kolhapur and is well-connected by state transport buses and private vehicles.
Nearest Railway Station
- Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus (KOP), Kolhapur
Nearest Airports
- Kolhapur Airport (KLH) – Domestic connectivity
- Pune International Airport (PNQ) – For wider domestic & international access
🏙️ Nearby Cities
Kolhapur
Nippani
Sankeshwar
Sangli
Belagavi
MytempleMypride Reflection
Written by MyTempleMyPride, with inputs from local devotees and traditional stories.