Nestled in the spiritual soil of Maharashtra, Mohata Devi Mandir is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in the Ahmednagar district. Situated in the village of Mohata, close to Pathardi and Shevgaon, this ancient mandir attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during the Navratri festival. This sacred site is dedicated to Mata Renuka, also known as Mohata Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of the universal mother – Shakti.

The mandir is not just a place of worship but a symbol of centuries-old faith, cultural traditions, and divine presence that resonates deeply with devotees from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and other neighboring states.

Historical Significance of Mohata Devi Mandir

Mohata Devi Mandir has a rich historical and mythological heritage. According to local folklore and ancient Hindu scriptures, Mata Mohata Devi is associated with Renuka Mata, the mother of Lord Parshuram—the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Renuka Devi was known for her chastity and spiritual strength. When her purity was questioned due to a divine test, she was beheaded by her own son Parshuram under his father Jamadagni’s command. However, she was later resurrected due to Parshuram’s penance and became immortal.

This divine story is closely tied to several mandirs across India, and Mohata is considered one of the most powerful locations where Renuka Mata manifested her spiritual presence. The mandir is believed to be over 1000 years old, with several restorations done over centuries by kings, landlords, and devotees.

Religious Importance and Beliefs

Mohata Devi Mandir holds immense spiritual power in the eyes of its devotees. She is worshipped as a Kuldevi (family goddess) by many communities, especially from the Maratha, Dhangar, Banjara, and Koli clans.

People believe that:

• Worshipping Mohata Devi with true devotion removes obstacles from life.
• Newlyweds often visit the mandir to seek blessings for a happy married life.
• Women pray for fertility and the well-being of their families.
• Farmers offer the first produce of their crop season to the goddess as gratitude.

There’s also a deep-rooted belief that the Devi grants boons, especially to those facing issues related to marriage, childbirth, health, or financial troubles.

Rituals and Worship Practices

Mohata Devi Mandir is known for its traditional Hindu rituals and deeply spiritual atmosphere. Devotees follow specific practices while visiting:

1. Abhishek and Pooja:

The day usually begins with a ritualistic Abhishek (ceremonial bathing of the idol) using milk, honey, turmeric, and water. Priests chant mantras while devotees offer flowers, coconuts, and sweets.

2. Offering Sarees and Jewelry:

Many devotees offer silk sarees, bangles, or ornaments to the goddess as a token of respect and gratitude. It’s common to see the deity beautifully adorned.

3. Animal Sacrifice (Bali):

Traditionally, goat sacrifice (Bali) was part of the ritual during festivals like Navratri. While the practice has reduced due to modern reforms, some villages still continue this custom symbolically.

4. Annadan (Food Donation):

Large-scale Annadan programs are held where thousands of devotees are fed. Sponsoring food in the Devi’s name is considered highly meritorious.

5. Special Offerings:

Lemon garlands, bangles, coconut with red kumkum, and turmeric are considered sacred offerings. Devotees also light ghee lamps and tie threads to fulfill wishes.

Architecture and Mandir Complex

The mandir stands on a raised stone platform with an old-world charm. Though not overly ornate, the structure exudes rustic elegance and spiritual ambiance.

• The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) houses the black stone idol of Mata Mohata Devi, adorned with flowers, sindoor, and traditional jewelry.
• The mandir complex includes yagna kund, a resting area for pilgrims, and spaces for ritual offerings.
• The walls are decorated with carvings, and the mandir has a small Nandi bull facing the Devi, symbolizing devotion.
• Surrounding trees and open spaces make it ideal for pilgrims to rest, meditate, and participate in community events.

Festivals Celebrated at Mohata Devi Mandir

1. Navratri (Nine Nights of the Goddess):

This is the grandest festival celebrated here. For nine days, the mandir is decorated with flowers and lights, and thousands of devotees perform jagrans, bhajans, and yagna.

Special rituals are performed each day, representing different forms of the goddess like Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.

• Yatras (pilgrimages) are organized on foot from surrounding districts.
• Cultural programs, Dandia-Raas, and devotional music fill the air.
• Local villagers host food stalls and bazaars.

2. Chaitra Navratri:

Celebrated during March-April, this is the second Navratri when many women observe fasts and visit the mandir barefoot.

3. Diwali and Dasara:

These festivals see a surge in devotees who light oil lamps, offer sweets, and pray for victory over darkness and evil.

4. Full Moon and Amavasya Days:

These lunar days are considered auspicious for special poojas and spiritual cleansing.

How to Reach Mohata Devi Mandir

Reaching Mohata Devi Mandir is convenient with good connectivity by road and rail.

By Road:

• From Ahmednagar: Around 60 km. Regular MSRTC and private buses available.
• From Pathardi: 15 km. Easily accessible by local rickshaws and jeeps.
• From Cha Sambhaji Nagar: 140 km via Beed Highway.
• From Pune: 200 km via Ahmednagar.

By Train:

• Nearest Railway Station: Ahmednagar (60 km away). From there, taxis or buses take you to the mandir in around 90 minutes.

By Air:

• Cha Sambhaji Nagar Airport: 140 km away.
• Pune Airport: 200 km away.
  From both airports, cab or rail connections are available to reach Ahmednagar and then Mohata.

Facilities and Amenities

• Lodging: Basic lodges and dharamshalas are available in Pathardi and Shevgaon.
• Food: Devotee-run canteens and local eateries serve simple vegetarian meals.
• Parking: Ample parking space during regular days; temporary arrangements during festivals.
• Security: During large events, police and volunteers manage the crowd for smooth darshan.

FAQs – Mohata Devi Mandir

Q1. What is the best time to visit Mohata Devi Mandir?

A: The ideal time is during Navratri (September–October) and Chaitra Navratri (March–April), when spiritual energy peaks and the atmosphere is festive.

Q2. Is accommodation available nearby?

A: Yes. You’ll find basic accommodations like lodges, guest houses, and community dharamshalas in Pathardi and Shevgaon. During festivals, the trust also arranges stay options.

Q3. Are there any restrictions in the mandir?

A: Photography inside the sanctum is restricted. Visitors should dress modestly, remove shoes, and follow traditional decorum inside the mandir.

Q4. Can I bring children or elderly family members?

A: Absolutely. The mandir is open to people of all ages. Assistance is available for elderly devotees, and the premises are generally safe and family-friendly.

Q5. What kind of offerings are commonly made?

A: Devotees offer sarees, coconuts, bangles, sweets, and garlands. Many also perform Annadan and special homam/yagna rituals during festivals.

Q6. Is the mandir open year-round?

A: Yes. The mandir remains open all days of the year, with peak visitation on Tuesdays, Fridays, and during Navratri.

Q7. Are there guides or priests available to explain the rituals?

A: Yes, local priests and volunteers are available who can help with poojas, rituals, and offer spiritual guidance upon request.

Q8. How crowded does it get during festivals?

A: Extremely crowded, especially during Navratri. Expect queues and a wait time of 1–2 hours during peak hours. Early morning or late evening visits are preferable.

Conclusion

The Mohata Devi Mandir is not just a sacred site—it is an embodiment of spiritual devotion, centuries-old tradition, and divine femininity. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a spiritual seeker in search of divine peace, visiting this mandir offers an unforgettable experience rooted in devotion, faith, and cultural heritage. A journey to Mohata is a journey into the heart of Shakti—the source of all energy, life, and love.