Bhavani Mandap

This is one of the oldest and at the same time most important structures in the city of Kolhapur. This palace is situated just behind the famous Mahalaxmi temple. The Bhavani Mandap is also known as the glory of the city of Kolhapur. This building was constructed under the reign and the patronage of the Marathi Ruler Shivaji Maharaja-II. The building at the time of its construction was one of the most unique and brilliant façade with 14 squares. However during the invasion of the Muslim emperor in the year 1813, 7 of these squares were damaged beyond repair and as such today there are only seven squares. The Bhavani Mandap houses a temple that was built at the request of the Chhatrapati.



This temple was dedicated to the Goddess Bhavani. The architectural designs of the Mandap still put tourists in awe and wonder. The interior of the Mandap are adorned by a cluster of lights called Zumbhur, these were specially bought from Italy and adorn the main entrance hall of the Bhavani Mandap. The other important Exhibits in the Mandap Include a live caricature of the famous Shahu Maharaja and around the temple there are various other stuffed creature and valuable antiquity that adorn the Mandap.