Hedavde Mahalakshmi Temple Virar
Hedavde Mahalakshmi Temple is located in Hedavde village, near Khaniwade on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad National Highway (NH 48), around 12 km from Virar in Palghar district, Maharashtra.The temple lies on the serene northern bank of the Tansa River, surrounded by lush greenery and hills.
The exact age of the temple is not known, but it is believed to be several centuries old. The presence of a self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Goddess Mahalakshmi and naturally formed Navagraha rock formations indicates that this sacred site has been a divine energy spot since ancient times. The current temple structure was built and renovated in the late 20th century, maintaining the sanctity of the original divine rock formations.
Deity Details
The main deity of the temple is Goddess Mahalakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, prosperity, and auspiciousness. The idol is said to be Swayambhu, meaning it appeared on its own from the earth and was not man-made. Along with Goddess Mahalakshmi, the temple also houses naturally formed idols of the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities) carved on a single rock. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Panchamukhi Hanuman, Panchamukhi Ganapati, Panchamukhi Shiva Lingam, Lord Kubera, Kaal Bhairava, and Naag Mandal. These deities together create a strong spiritual vibration within the temple premises.
Architecture
The temple architecture is a blend of modern style and traditional Hindu elements. The main sanctum (garbhagriha) houses the self-manifested rock of Mahalakshmi and the Navagrahas. The idol of the Goddess is adorned with bright sarees, ornaments, and flowers on Fridays. The temple premises are well maintained, with tiled flooring, carved pillars, and an open courtyard.The unique feature of this temple is the monolithic stone inside the sanctum, which bears the natural formations of the Navagrahas — a rare and sacred phenomenon.
History
According to local tradition, when the temple area was being developed, workers discovered a large immovable rock beneath the ground. Repeated attempts to remove it failed. Later, the temple priest received a divine vision revealing that the rock was sacred and contained the forms of the Navagrahas along with Goddess Mahalakshmi. The rock was then enshrined as it was, and the temple was built around it. Since then, devotees have experienced miraculous benefits, particularly relief from planetary afflictions, financial problems, and family troubles.
Sthalapurana
Long ago, Goddess Mahalakshmi chose the peaceful forests of Hedavde near the Tansa River to manifest her presence on earth. A divine light appeared from a rock, and villagers began worshipping it with devotion. Many years later, during land work, attempts to move this rock failed. The workers heard the sound of anklets and saw a radiant lady in their dreams.
A priest then received a divine vision of the Goddess, who revealed that the rock was Swayambhu and contained her energy along with the Navagrahas, who had naturally formed around her in their proper cosmic order to restore universal balance. The rock was cleaned, revealing the natural planetary outlines — a rare sign of divine creation.
A shrine was then built over the rock, and worship began every Friday. Since then, countless devotees have experienced miracles, such as relief from planetary doshas, prosperity in business, and peace in family life. The temple continues to be revered as a powerful Shakti Peetha where Shakti (Divine Energy) and Navagraha (Planetary Energy) unite in perfect harmony.
Festivals
The temple is mainly open on Fridays, with Abhishekam, Alankaram, Maha Aarti, and Naivedyam performed from morning until evening. Major festivals like Varalakshmi Vratam, Navratri, Diwali, Kojagiri Pournima, and Akshaya Tritiya are celebrated with special rituals and prayers. Devotees believe that worshipping on nine consecutive Fridays brings prosperity, success, and the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi.
