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A unique project, perhaps the only project in India situated at Shri Kshetra Siddhagiri Math, Kaneri, Tal. Karveer, Dist. Kolhapur. The place is near Kolhapur city on Pune Bangalore Highway. Shri Kshetra Siddhagiri Math has a history of more than 1000 years, and is a holy place of worship of Lord Mahadeva. The surrounding around the museum is very calm and quiet, a hilly place with a good collection of Flora and Fauna.
The project is a dream village of Mahatma Gandhi, visually and symbolically created through the vision and efforts of present 27th Mathadhipati H.H. Adrushya Kadsiddheshwar Swamiji.
The main objective of the Project is to refresh the history of self sufficient village life before the invasion of the Mughals in Maharashtra. There were 12 Balutedars (12 main profession based casts i.e. Professions performed by generation by family members) and 18 Alutedars, who provided equipment to all villagers useful in their day-to-day necessities of domestic as well as agricultural life.
These Balutedars, Alutedars and others had a special characteristics with which they served society. The description of all 18 Alutedars, 12 Balutedars and other people and there duties are vividly depicted in the museum.
The first phase of the museum spans over 7 Acres of area with almost 80 main scenes and around 300 statues. Several subtle village lifestyles are taken into consideration. There is a unique combination of expression, accuracy and liveliness in the whole village. Each sculpture has a multi dimensional effect and lifestyle theme which Swamiji very keenly arranged each and every scene to make a proper visual story. In the total cluster the village demonstrate a self sufficient machinery within village. Barter economy, Interpersonal healthy happy relationship among villagers is reflected. The Museum projects the entire village as a single family, and as single family members in a joint family. No adulteration, no cut thought practice, no mad rat race, No pollution, but caring, and delightful atmosphere, no bitter feeling, but fertile land, clean water, clean air, quality food, maximum use of natural resources, cattle field, livestock, job satisfaction. All these things are reflecting the beauty, Joy, satisfaction of human race and oneness with nature. It advises us to get back to nature, without disturbing the equilibrium of nature and many other things which are beyond our imagination.
Mahalaxmi Mandir
The puranas have listed 108 sites where Shakti (the goddess of power) is manifested. Amongst these, the Karveer area (the area where the present town of Kolhapur is located), is of special significance. This is one of the six abodes of Shakti, where one can achieve both fulfillment of desires as well as salvation from them. It is therefore considered to be of greater significance than Uttar Kashi. Shri Mahalakshmi is the consort of Shri Vishnu and it is said that they both reside in the Karveer area. Mahalakshmi also known as Goddess Ambabai enjoys status of one of the important spiritual centers in India. Construction of the temple was initiated in 7th century by Chalukya rulers and further beautified by the Yadavas until the 9th century. Garuda Mandap used for concerts by renowned artists was built in 1838 AD. During Navratri Festival, the temple is well decorated with lights, flowers and renowned musicians, Kirtankars, artists pay their homage by performing for goddess in front of public at large in temple. The 'Aarati' ritual is most important. Daily at 5:30AM when the Mandir is opened, Aarati is performed after the worship of the idol's feet. This is called 'Kakadarati.' Devotional songs in 'Bhup-Rag' are recited at that time. At 8:30AM Mahapooja occurs followed by 'Mangalarati.' At 12:30PM, worship with fragrant flowers & Kumkum is done for the devotees camphor is burnt and 'Naivedya' (Rich dishes) is offered. If there is no Mahapooja from devotees, milk instead of Panchamrut (milk, curds, sugar, ghee & honey) is spilled on the feet followed by Aarati. This process continues until about 2PM. This is followed with a 'Pooja' where the goddess is offered ornaments. In the interiors of the Mandir, Vedic hymns are chanted. After 7:30PM, with ringing of bells, 'Aarati' is performed. This is called the 'Bhog -Aarati'. The ritual of 'Abhishek Vidhi'is carried on throughout the day. Weekends and long weekends see a lot of rush. One can also pray to the goddess through Mukh Darshan, for which there are shorter queues but one gets the darshan of the goddess from a distance. Cameras are not allowed inside the temple complex, but one can see many people using their mobile cameras to take pictures and selfies.
A gateway of higher education of international level to regional masses but surrounded by rich nature.
Beautiful rainy hill station, lot of clouds and beautiful waterfall.
Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
The forest area of Dajipur is on the border of Kolhapur and Sindhudurg districts. Surrounded by rugged mountains and dense forests, this secluded little place is completely cut off from human habitat, but is home to bison, wild deer, gava (bison), and many more spectacular wild animals and birds. An excursion in the vicinity to the Gagangiri Maharaj's Math makes for a pleasant outing. There is a scenic resort near the backwaters of Radhanagari dam which is highly recommended for wildlife lovers. Dajipur is an exciting and beautiful holiday getaway 1200 m above sea level. The roads are not motorable in rainy season.
A hill station about 2-3 hours from CBS (Central Bus Stand, Kolhapur) and Kolhapur Railway Station. Excellent climate during the rainy season.