Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Lord Ganpati holds a prominent position within Hinduism as the deity known for removing obstacles. He is the cherished child of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Every year, devotees throughout India celebrate Lord Ganesha’s birthday, known as “Ganesh Chaturthi.” In 2023, this auspicious occasion, the Ganesh Chaturthi Mahotsav, commences on September 19th.
This festival attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the globe who gather to witness the impressive idols of Lord Ganpati and partake in the festivities. If you seek to experience the grandeur of Ganesh Chaturthi and pay homage to Lord Ganpati, consider exploring the following list of five must-visit Ganesha temples in India.
5 Must-Visit Lord Ganesha Temples
1. Shri Siddhivinayak Temple
Located in the Prabhadevi area of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple is known as one of the most prominent Lord Ganesha temples in the country. This temple houses the Siddhi Vinayak shrine, where devotees believe their wishes can be fulfilled. Additionally, intricate carvings of the Ashtavinayak, representing the eight forms of Ganesha, adorn the wooden doors leading to the sanctum. Siddhivinayak is affectionately known among his devotees as “Navsacha Ganapati” or “Navasala Pavanara Ganapati.”
2. Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Tiruchirappalli
Located at the pinnacle of Rockford in Tiruchirappalli, the Ucchi Pillayar Temple is a eye-pleasing site. Originating from rock, this temple showcases awe-inspiring rock architecture with its roots tracing back to the Pallava dynasty. Its construction was finalised during the reign of the Nayak kings of Madurai during the Vijayanagara dynasty’s rule.
3. Ganpatipule Temple, Ratnagiri
Nestled in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, this temple is home to a unique 400-year-old Ganpati idol facing west, a deviation from the common east-facing orientation. The idol is believed to be self-evolved. Remarkably, the temple’s architecture is designed to allow direct sunlight to illuminate the idol from February to November. Positioned near a hilltop, worshippers often perform a ‘pradakshina’ by circumambulating the hill as a gesture of reverence.
4. Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Jaipur
The Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, situated in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is nestled at the foot of the Moti Dungri hill and fort. This temple houses an ancient idol of Lord Ganesha, believed to be over 500 years old, which was brought to this location in 1761 by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal during his travels with Maharaja Madho Singh I. The architecture of Moti Dungri is inspired by the design of a Scottish castle and follows the Nagara architectural style.
5. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Pune
Situated in Pune, Maharashtra, the renowned Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. The city of Pune takes immense pride in its Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati, attracting pilgrims from across India and around the globe who come to offer their prayers to Lord Ganesha. The temple’s history is deeply moving, as it was established by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife Lakshmibai in memory of their only son, who tragically passed away due to the plague pandemic.
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