With Ganesh Chaturthi falling on September 14 this year, September is an ideal time to visit some of India’s most revered Ganesha temples. From Mumbai and Maharashtra’s celebrated Ashtavinayak shrines to ancient temples in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, these destinations combine devotion, history and distinctive traditions. (unsplash) Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, Andhra Pradesh: The Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple in Chittoor is famed for its self-manifested idol of Ganesha, which is traditionally believed to be growing in size. According to the temple legend, the idol emerged from a well that supplied water to three brothers involved in a dispute. (wikimedia commons) Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali: Located in Pali, Maharashtra, Ballaleshwar is one of the Ashtavinayak temples. Its legend centres on Ballal, a devoted child whose unwavering faith in Ganesha is said to have led the deity to appear before and bless him. Uniquely, this is the only Ashtavinayak shrine where Ganesha is known by the name of his devotee. (wikimedia commons) Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, Pillayarpatti: For a glimpse of ancient rock-cut architecture, head to the Karpaga Vinayagar Temple in Tamil Nadu’s Pillayarpatti. The Indian Express describes it as one of Tamil Nadu’s most ancient rock-cut temples, dating back more than 1,600 years. Its Ganesha idol is notable for its rare seated posture and is believed to have been carved from a single stone. ( Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai: One of Mumbai’s most famous Ganesha shrines, the Siddhivinayak Temple is particularly popular with devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi. The temple is renowned for its Ganesha idol, which devotees believe is self-manifested, and is traditionally associated with fulfilling devotees’ wishes. (wikimedia commons) Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Tiruchirappalli: Perched atop the Rockfort in Tiruchirappalli, the Ucchi Pillayar Temple offers both a spiritual experience and striking views of the city. The temple is dedicated to Ganesha and is among the prominent destinations featured in the Indian Express list of temples to visit during Ganesh Chaturthi. (wikimedia commons) Shree Maha Ganapati Temple, Ranjangaon: Situated in Maharashtra, the Shree Maha Ganapati Temple at Ranjangaon is one of the Ashtavinayak shrines. According to tradition, this is the place where Lord Shiva invoked Ganesha before setting out to defeat the demon Tripurasura, giving the temple a special place in Ganesha mythology. (wikimedia commons)
