Chaturshringi Temple

The temple was established during the reign of the Maratha king Shivaji, placing its origins in the Maratha period. It stands on the slope of a hill in the north-west of Pune, situated amid natural surroundings on Senapati Bapat Road. The structure itself measures approximately 90 feet in height and 125 feet in width. The temple is maintained by the Chattushringi Devasthan Trust, which oversees its daily operations and long-term preservation. Currently, the trust is undertaking renovation work—known as Jirnoddhar—designed to enhance accessibility and facilities while preserving the heritage character of the original shrine.

Daily Worship and Rituals

The temple follows a structured daily schedule of worship. Between 8:15 and 10:00 a.m., the deity receives abhishek (ritual bathing), pooja (worship), and vastra (ritual dressing). The morning aarti—the ceremonial waving of lights before the deity—occurs at 10:00 a.m., followed by naivaidyam, the offering of food, between 11:00 and 11:30 a.m. The evening aarti takes place at 8:00 p.m. Devotees may arrange specialized worship services through the temple trust, including abhishekam, vastrasah pooja, panchopchar pooja, rudra-abhishekam, and kumkum archana. Those wishing to commission particular rituals should contact the devasthan office directly for details and arrangements.

Navratri and Festival Observances

Navratri, the nine-day festival honouring the goddess, is the most significant observance at Chaturshringi Temple. Held annually in September or October during the lunar month of Ashwin, the festival begins with Ghatsthapana, the ritual planting of seeds, and culminates on the tenth day with Vijayadashmi, also known as Dassara. This festival draws substantial numbers of devotees seeking the goddess's blessings. The temple also marks other important dates in the Hindu calendar, including Kartik Purnima, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi, each drawing devotees during their respective seasons and providing regular opportunities for worship and celebration throughout the year.

Visiting Hours and Access

The temple's schedule varies by day. It remains open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Tuesday and Friday, the temple closes at 12:30 p.m., so visitors planning to attend the evening aarti or participate in afternoon worship should note this restriction. The morning aarti at 10:00 a.m. is considered an auspicious time to visit, particularly during Navratri. The temple is situated on a hillside, requiring visitors to climb steps to reach the main shrine. The trust is planning accessibility improvements, including escalators from the base of the hill, which will benefit elderly and differently abled devotees.

Practical Information for Visitors

Visitors should dress modestly when entering the temple, as is customary in Hindu shrines. Shoes are typically removed before entering the sanctum. The temple trust accepts donations for the ongoing Jirnoddhar renovation project through various means, including UPI payment. Those wishing to arrange specific rituals or seek information about temple services should contact the devasthan office directly. The temple's location on Senapati Bapat Road in Pune makes it accessible by local transport, and its hillside setting offers views of the surrounding city. Visitors are advised to check the daily schedule before planning their visit, particularly if they wish to attend specific aartis or participate in morning rituals.