Shanktheerth is an important ritual at the Kolhapur Mahalaxmi temple. A large number of devotees attend this unique ritual at the Ambabai Mahalaxmi temple. The first Shankatheerth is performed at around 12:30 PM. The holy water from the sanctum sanctorum is brought in a conch and it is sprinkled on the devotees present. The large amount of water that is sprinkled is believed to have the blessing of Goddess Mahalaxmi of Kolhapur.
It is believed that the water will usher in peace, prosperity and auspiciousness. The water is also believed to have curative properties.
The ritual is again repeated at night around 8:15 PM.
Another ritual that is performed daily in the temple is the Panchamrutha abhishekam of the Goddess’s feet. This is performed at around 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
Devotees also make offerings of saree and ornaments after the 12:30 PM puja, rituals and food offerings.