Mahalaxmi temple, Kolhapur

Mahalaxmi or Ambabai temple as it is locally known is situated in the heart of the Kolhapur city in South Maharashtra.

The temple was constructed sometime in 6-7th cen. AD.

The style of construction is distinctly Chalukyan as can be seen from the other Chalukyan temple located in the neighboring state of Karnataka.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi and has been patronised over the years by various ruling dynasties like the Marathas, Yadavas, Silharas etc.

The entire temple is built in blackstone and probably in the male female conjoint type construction without use of mortor.

The sabhamandapa appears to have been built during the maratha period and has a wooden construction typical to that period.

The temple has a stellate plan and its walls are ornate with several motifs and figurines of Gods, Goddesses, Apsaras, Gandharvas, Yakshas etc.

Photos :

Misc. photos of Kolhapur:

Misc photos - Shalini palace and Rankala lake:

Text & Photographs : Abhijit Rajadhyaksha

Bhigwan Lake : A Photologue

Bhigwan lake lies near the town Bhigwan off Pune-Solapur highway (90kms from Pune). It is a favourite destination of birdies from all over India and is famous for its migratory birds, especially in the winter season.

A boat can be hired at village Diksal , 15kms near Bhigwan , which takes one around the lake.

One gets to see birds like flamingoes, demoiselle cranes, open billed storks, painted storks,grey heron, king fishers, harriers,purple herons, egrets,gulls, ducks etc.

Photos:

Pic: Flamingos

Pic: Demoiselle crane

Pic: Egret

Pic: Egret

Pic: Ibis

Pic: Spoon bill stork

Pic: Painted stork

Pic: Open billed stork

 Pic: Gadwall duck

 Pic: Grey heron

 Pic: Gull

 Pic: Black winged stilt

Pic: White browed wagtail

 Pic: Marsh harrier

 Pic: Pond heron

 Pic: Purple heron

Pic: White throated kingfisher

Text & Photographs : Abhijit Rajadhyaksha