Bhavani Mandap, Royal palace and heritage site in Kolhapur, India.
Bhavani Mandap is a royal structure with large walls and arches located behind the Mahalaxmi Temple in central Kolhapur. The building houses a collection of preserved wildlife specimens from hunting expeditions and a statue of an important local leader.
This structure was built approximately 200 years ago and served the Maharaja as a royal residence during the British colonial period. It was an important center for administrative and ceremonial activities for the ruling family.
The name references the goddess Bhavani, who holds deep spiritual significance in this region. Visitors can observe how this religious connection shapes the spaces, where people gather during important festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
This location is near the Mahalaxmi Temple, making navigation and planning straightforward. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and be aware that the area can be particularly crowded during religious celebrations.
Local tradition mentions a hidden underground tunnel believed to connect this structure to the distant Panhala Fort. Such underground passages were typically built in royal compounds throughout the region for strategic purposes.
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