The elephant-headed Lord Ganesha holds exceptional criticalness for Hindus particularly in Maharashtra. The Ashtavinayak Yatra in Maharashtra is viewed as something of high reverence. Every temple covered in this yatra has a particular idol of Ganesha. The yatra, which starts and finishes at Mayureshwar Mandir in Morgaon close to Pune, ought to be finished in one go. In spite of the fact that stops or breaks are permitted, pilgrims shouldn’t return home without completing the entire Ashtavinayaka circuit.
Here are the 8 vital temples that are covered under the Ashtavinayaka Yatra in Maharashtra (not in the exact sequence here). So if you have the notion that all the important Ganesh temples are in Mumbai, and are calculating the Delhi to Mumbai train distance in km, then buddy, you need to check this list out to clear the air. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
1. Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple covered under the Ashtavinayak yatra is located in the town of Siddhatek, 100 km from Pune. The sanctum was built by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The Ganesha idol installed here of Shree Siddhivinayak is set in metal casing. In the temple, you can discover a Shiva-panchayatana and a place of worship dedicated to Goddess Shivai.
2. Mayureshwar Mandir
Otherwise called Moreshwar temple, it is located 65 km from Pune on the banks of Karha River in the town Morgaon. The deity here is three-eyes, and his his trunk turned towards the left, signifying progress. The divinity is flanked by icons of Siddhi and Buddhi, consorts of the Lord.
3. Varad Vinayak Temple
Located in the Mahad village of Raigad, the idol in this temple faces east and has his trunk turned towards the left. Nandadeep, an oil lamp is believed to be burning here since 1892.
4. Balleshwar Temple
In the Pali village of Raigad, this temple is also known as Ballal, since it is believed that Lord Ganesha appeared in the form of a Brahmin in front of his devotee Ballal. Therefore, the name.
5. Girijatmaj Temple
The temple here is situated in the Buddhist caves, that are also called Ganesh Caves, and are 97 km from Pune. A flight of 307 steps take you to the temple premises here.
6. Chintamani Temple
Known to be one of the most revered shrines amongst the eight temples of Ganesha, the Chintamani Temple is situated in the village of Theur in Maharashtra. The idol of Lord Ganesh is worshipped as “Chintamani” here, which means, the one who helps you get rid of worries.
7. Vighnahar Temple
Situated in the town of Ozhar, the temple is surrounded by high stone walls, with its pinnacle made of gold. Riddhi and Siddhi are also present along with the idol of Ganesha here.
8. Mahaganpati Temple
The most powerful representation of Lord Ganesha, this temple is situated in the Ranjhan village. The form of power of Lord Ganesha can be seen here by the idol’s 10 trunks and twenty hands!
Are you all set to embark upon this divine trip? The circuit isn’t that difficult, but once completed, might get you what you have desired since long. Have a divine trip!