Historic Renuka Mata Temple Ridhora (Goddess), Fulambri, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

It is believed that the Goddess at Ridhora in Phulambri Taluka of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district is a manifestation of Renuka Mata of Mahurgad. Renowned for fulfilling the vows of devotees, this Goddess is a place of faith for thousands. The fair held here from Chaitra Purnima to Akshaya Tritiya is famous as the ‘Masalyachi Yatra’ (Spice Fair). Devotees visiting this fair purchase enough spices to last them for the entire year.

The village of Ridhora is situated on the border of three talukas: Bhokardan, Phulambri, and Badnapur. Consequently, devotees from both Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Jalna districts come here for darshan. This temple, dating back to the Nizam era, is constructed of bricks and lime. The temple was renovated in 1922. The work on the six-tiered shikhara (spire) of the temple was completed after 1947. Near the temple stands an ancient banyan tree, and nearby, on an upright marble slab, are inscribed the names of freedom fighters from the region who were martyred or imprisoned during the country’s struggle for independence. Near the banyan tree is a stone statue of a lion, and next to it is a deepmal (lamp tower). Below this lamp tower is a small shrine, and nearby are the abodes of other deities. There is also a yajna kund in front of the lamp tower.

Built in the traditional style, the temple consists of a sabhamandap (assembly hall) and a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). In the center of the sabhamandap is a brass statue of a lion, the vehicle of the Goddess. There are two exits from the sabhamandap leading out of the temple. Near the entrance of the sanctum are the padukas (footprints) of the Goddess. This is where women perform the ‘Oti Bharne’ ritual. Inside the sanctum is the vermilion-anointed idol of Renuka Mata. The Goddess wears a nose ring (nath) and has a large bindi on her forehead. During festivals, a silver crown is adorned on the Goddess. On the outer walls of the main temple, there are large images of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The temple’s shikhara is relatively very tall and features intricate carvings and craftsmanship.

Many devotees come here to make vows to the Goddess. Those whose vows have been fulfilled tie garlands of coconuts in the temple. The Bhopas (priests) of the temple stand outside the temple door and strike the devotees who have made vows with a whip. Before striking, they chant, “Om Jagadamba Mate Ki.” It is said that devotees who have made vows with pure intentions do not feel the lashes of the whip. If a vow is made with malicious intent, welts appear on the body.

Chaitri and Sharadiya Navratri festivals are celebrated here with great enthusiasm. A large fair is held from Chaitra Purnima to Akshaya Tritiya. The fair begins on Chaitra Purnima after the traditional pulling of twelve carts, lighting of the lamp tower, and the Goddess’s aarti. Thousands of devotees from areas including Bhokardan, Rajur, Phulambri, Sillod, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Buldana, Badnapur, Karmad, Ratnapur, and Padmavati Sayyadpur come for the fair. Villagers who have settled in various parts for jobs and business make it a point to visit the village for this fair. Women who were married off from this village return to their maternal home for the fair to perform the ‘Oti Bharne’ ritual with a blouse piece and coconut. During the fair, vows are made and fulfilled. During the festival, offerings of roosters and goats are made to the Goddess.

Famous for household spices, this fair features hundreds of spice shops. The fair is also famous for utensils, and people purchase vessels required for weddings here. During the Sharadiya Navratri festival, thousands of devotees come for the Goddess’s darshan. On the first day, at around five in the morning, the Ghatasthapana is performed amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras and the slogans of “Aai Raja Udo, Udo… Renuka Mata Ki Jai.” Following this, various religious programs are held in the temple. During this festival, a Maha Aarti of the Goddess is performed every morning and evening. An Akhand Harinam Saptah is also held here during this period.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery