People celebrate “Shakambhari Navratri” with deep devotion, honoring Shri Tulja Bhavani with great enthusiasm. She is the Kulaswamini (family deity) of Maharashtra and the worshiped goddess of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This auspicious festival has a deep spiritual significance and is an integral part of the tradition of Tuljapur, a place considered pilgrim.
Shakambhari aslo known as Parvati
The word “Shakambhari” refers to the divine form of Goddess Parvati. People think he seems to have defended life and remained there in a desperate drought. This form of goddess is associated with nourishment through the gifts of nature, symbolized by green vegetable foods. People believe Mata Parvati got Avatar on the eighth day of Ashtami (the eighth day of the lunar month). “Shakambhari Navratri” is celebrated every year from Ashtami to Purnima (the full moon).

Tuljapur Jalyatra
This Jal Yatra starts from Papanas Tirtha at sunrise i.e. at exactly 6 am in the morning. Thousands of women sisters from Tuljapur and nearby towns carry a jug filled with water from the Papanas Tirtha Kunda on their heads and come to the Tulja Bhavani temple to offer water. Elephants, horses and bullock carts grace this ceremony. The procession reaches the Tulja Bhavani temple with music, dance and festivities.
During the Jalyatra, people throw traditional dances and sing devotional songs. Sambal traditional musical instrument, is mainly played in this program.

The procession (Miravnuk) reaches the temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani with great devotion. All the women are offered Jal in the Garbhagruha of Mother Bhavani.
This celebration takes nearly 5 to 6 hours and after all the women offer water to the goddess, the Abhishek of Tulja Bhavani Mata begins. On this day, devotees offer the Bhavani Talwar, symbolizing the avatar of Mother Tulja Bhavani Mata, with great reverence. This sacred ritual reflects their deep devotion and respect for the goddess. On this special day devotees can take darshan.
Pro💡Tip to Devotees
- Get access to temple early in the morning like 04:00AM
- Plan your visit 8 to 10 days prior to take Darshan from Garbhagruha.
- Check special timings on Navratri and other festivals click here to check. For more contact us.