Katyayani Devi Temple, Kolhapur

The Katyayani Devi Temple in Kolhapur honours Katyayani, one of the nine forms of Durga. It is regarded as a Shakti Peetha, a spot where part of Sati's body is said to have fallen, and devotees come to ask for the goddess's protection. The building blends Marathi and Rajasthani styles and carries carvings, sculpture and ornament.

Local legend ties the shrine to the fight against the demon Kolhasur, who posted Raktabeej as his guard. Each drop of Raktabeej's blood gave birth to a new demon, so Mahalakshmi created an illusory pool, the Amrut Kund, and with Katyayani's help Bhairava's army overcame him. Aarti is performed several times a day; the evening ceremony, with its lamps and hymns, is the best attended.