Ashtavinayaka refers to a group of eight Ganesha temples located around Pune, Maharashtra, India. Each temple houses a unique idol of Ganesha, with distinct legends and histories.
Pilgrimage: Devotees undertake a pilgrimage (yatra) to these eight temples, seeking blessings and fulfilling spiritual aspirations.
Unique Idols: Each temple has a different form of Ganesha, with variations in the trunk's direction, posture, and accompanying deities.
Legends and History: Each temple has its own mythology and historical significance, adding to the richness of the pilgrimage.
Spiritual Significance: The Ashtavinayaka yatra is believed to bestow various blessings, including the removal of obstacles, success in endeavors, and spiritual growth.
The Eight Temples:
Mayureshwar Temple (Morgaon): Ganesha is depicted riding a peacock and is believed to have slain the demon Sindhu here.
Siddhivinayak Temple (Siddhatek): Ganesha blessed Vishnu with success in battle against demons here.
Ballaleshwar Temple (Pali): Ganesha saved his devotee Ballal from his father's wrath here.
Varadavinayak Temple (Mahad): Ganesha blessed the sage Grutsamad after a long penance here.
Chintamani Temple (Theur): Ganesha returned the Chintamani jewel to sage Kapila here.
Girijatmaj Temple (Lenyadri): Ganesha granted Parvati's wish to be born as her son here.
Vighneshwar Temple (Ozar): Ganesha defeated the demon Vignasura here.
Mahaganapati Temple (Ranjangaon): Ganesha blessed Shiva with success in battle against the demon Tripurasura here.
Additional Information:
The Ashtavinayaka yatra is typically completed in a clockwise direction, starting and ending at the Mayureshwar Temple in Morgaon.
