Sree Gayathri Devi Temple

Sri Gayathri Devi

History

Gayatri Temple at Jagatsukh near Manali in Himachal Pradesh: Ancient temple with intricate woodwork with modern marble image of Gayatri. JAGATSUKH : The one time capital of Kullu. Here are old temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and to Sandhya Gayatri. The Arjun caves are just ahead

This temple of Goddess Sri Gayathri is built by Sri Chidambara Dixith with the support of many Devotees. The inspiration to build a temple came from his divine blessing from the goddess Sri Gayathri Devi. This temple was built in 1962 by the divine grace of Godess Sri Gayathri Devi. In 1977 the idol of Lord Anjaneya was installed inside the temple complex, in 1986 Idols of Lord Ganesha along with Siddhi Buddhi and Lord Shanmukha were also installed, in 1990 the idols of Lord Shiva and Parvathi along with the Navagraha Deities were installed. Of lately the Idol of Lord Vishnu is also installed inside the temple complex.

Gayathri Mantra :

The Gayatri Mantra consists of twenty-four syllables - three lines of eight syllables each. The first line (Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swah) is considered an invocation, and is not technically a part of the original Gayatri Mantra as it appears in the Upanishads. Gayatri is also referred to as a Vedic poetic meter of 24 syllables or any hymn composed in this meter. Hence, there exists a whole familt of Gayatri Mantras, which serve as meditative aids to pray for the blessings of a particular personal God.

Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swah,

Tat Savitur Varenyam,

Bhargo devasva Dhimahi,

Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayatur.

ॐ भूर्भुव: स्व: तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं ।

भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि, धीयो यो न: प्रचोदयात् ।।

A basic translation can be given as...

Oh God, the Protector, the basis of all life, Who is self-existent, Who is free from all pains and Whose contact frees the soul from all troubles, Who pervades the Universe and sustains all, the Creator and Energiser of the whole Universe, the Giver of happiness, Who is worthy of acceptance, the most excellent, Who is Pure and the Purifier of all, let us embrace that very God, so that He may direct our mental faculties in the right direction.

The Four Parts of the Gayatri Mantra

Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swah (ॐ भूर्भुव: स्व:)

1. AUM (ॐ), the Supreme name of God.

BHUR BHUVAH SWAH. These three words collectively are known as the "Mahavyahriti". They express the nature of God, and demonstrate his inherent qualities.

2. BHUR (भूर्)

Firstly, the word Bhur implies existence. God is self-existent and independent of all. He is eternal and unchanging. Without beginning and without end, God exists as a continuous, permanent, constant entity. Secondly, the word Bhur can also mean the Earth, on which we are born and sustained. God is the provider of all, and it is through His divine will that we our blessed with all that we require to maintain us through our lives. Finally, Bhur signifies Prana, or life (literally, breath). God is That which gives life to all. Whilst He is independent of all, all are dependent on Him. It is God who has given us life, God who maintains us throughout our lives, and God alone who has the ability to take away our life, when He so chooses. The only permanent entity, all others are subject to His own will

3. BHUVAH (भुव:)

Bhuvah describes the absolute Consciousness of God. God is self-Conscious as well as being Conscious of all else, and thus is able to control and govern the Universe. Also, the word Bhuvah relates to God's relationship with the celestial world. It denotes God's greatness - greater than the sky and space, He is boundless and unlimited. Finally, Bhuvah is also indicative of God's role as the remover of all pain and sufferings (Apaana). We see pain and sorrow all around us. However, through supplication to God, we can be freed from that pain and hardship. God Himself is devoid of any pain. Though He is Conscious of all, and is thus aware of pain, it does not affect Him. It is our own ignorance that makes us susceptible to the effects of Maya, or illusion, which causes us to feel pain. Through true devotion to God, we can be freed from the clutches of Maya, and thus be rid of pain and sorrow.

4. SWAH (स्व:)

Swah indicates the all-pervading nature of God. He is omnipresent and pervades the entire multi-formed Universe. Without Form Himself, He is able to manifest Himself through the medium of the physical world, and is thus present in each and every physical entity. In this way, God is able to interact with the Universe created by Him, and thus sustain and control it, ensuring its smooth and proer running and function.

Also, Swah symbolises God's bliss. All but God experience pain, suffering and sorrow. Devoid of all such things, God alone is able to experience supreme bliss. Happiness as experienced by humans is temporary, a transient state of mental satisfaction, which soon dissolves back into the mire of worldy troubles. Perfect, and without any form of deficiency, God alone experiences true bliss, permanent and unaffected by worldly pains and woes. One who realises God is able to join in this bliss, and thus God is able to impart true happiness to those who establish oneness with that Supreme Divinity.

The Mahavyahriti can be summed up by comparison to the word AUM itself, and through this comparison to the tripartite structure, can be compared to the essential nature of God, which differentiates Him from the other two entities recognised in that structure (namely, matter and soul), in the same way as the comparison between the three parts of the word Satchidananda, another name also used to describe God...

• BHUR Prana Earth Sat Existence
• BHUVAH Apana Sky Chit Consciousness
• SWAH Vyana Heaven Ananda Bliss

TAT SAVITUR VARENYAM (तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं)

5. TAT (तत् s.1)

Literally, this word means "that", being used in Sanskrit to denote the third person. It is also mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita by Sri Krishna Himself, where He implies the selfless nature of the word. Being used in the third person, the word has implicit in it an idea of selflessness. Sri Krishna uses it to imply the selfless nature of charity (charity, or a gift, being used as an analogy for worship, in the form of action, implying that action should be preformed without regard to its fruits, but simply out of devotion and sense of duty, or Dharma). Tat then is used here in the Gayatri Mantra to indicate that the worshipper is referring to [that] God, and that the praise being offered to God in the prayer is purely directed towards Him, without thought of gaining any personal benefit from that praise.

6. SA-VI-TUR (सवितुर् s.2-4)

Savita, from which Savitur is derived, is another name of God, this being the reason that the Gayatri Mantra is often known as the Savitri Mantra. The implication of Savita is of God's status as the fountain, the source of all things. It is through His Divine Grace that the Universe exists, and so this word sums up the Mahavyahriti, by describing God's ability to create the Universe and sustain it, as well as, at the right time, bring about its dissolution.

Savita is also indicative of God's gift to mankind. Humans also have, in limited amount, the power, or shakti, of Savita. This shakti acts as an impetus in humans, and brings about the requirement for them to do something. They cannot sit idle, and are constantly searching for something to do. This is what is commonly known as the "creative urge". It is through this shakti that mankind has created art, and it is through this shakti also that scientific advances are made. The gift of Savita also gives creatures the ability of procreation. Hence, Savita can be thought of as meaning Father (or Mother) also.

Finally, it is the power of Savita that enables mankind to distinguish right from wrong, and vice from virtue. Through this ability, we are able to in some part direct our own selves, and thus, Savita imparts to us a certain self-guiding ability. Thus, by using this word in the mantra, we demonstrate that we are making efforts ourselves also, since God will not help us unless we are willing to help ourselves.

7. VA-RE-NY-AM (वरेण्यं s.5-8)

Varenyam signifies our acceptance of God, and can be translated as meaning "Who is worthy". Ever ready to obtain all the material riches of the world, more often than not, they are a disappointment once they have been achieved. God however is the one who, once realised and achieved, has the ability to truly satisfy. We therefore accept Him as the Highest reality, and it is to Him that we dedicate our efforts.

Varenyam can also be interpreted as signifying one who is eligible. We have chosen Him to be our Leader and our Guide. We place our all into His hands, and accept Him regardless of anything else. We place no conditions on this acceptance, as it is all out of sheer devotion.

BHARGO DEVASYA DHIMAHI (भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि)

This triplet is a further description of the attributes and qualities of God - His functional and instrumental qualities, rather than intrinsic qualities - and through those qualities, His relationship to us.

8. BHAR-GO (भर्गो s.1,2)

Bhargo is taken to signify the Glorious Light that is God's love and power. It indicates His complete purity - being absolutely pure Himself, God also has the ability to purify those that come into contact with Him. Thus, Bhargo is indicative of God's power to purify, and to destroy all sins and afflictions. In the same way as a metal ore placed into a fire will yield the pure metal, by merging with God, by realising His Divine Form and establishing unity and oneness with Him, we can cleanse ourselves and be made pure by His Grace.

Though the soul, being itself Divine in nature, possesses that Light, it lacks lustre, having been made impure by the sins and vices, which are a result of the darkness of Maya. By removing the veil of Maya, and cleansing our soul, God can enable the soul to realise its true, Divine self, and thus purify it.

9. DE-VAS-YA (देवस्य s.3-5)

The word Deva, from which this word is derived, has been translated by different people in many different ways. It is generally thought of as meaning simply "God". However, its meaning is more complex than that.

Deva, which forms the root of the words "Devata" and "Devi", means "quality" or "attribute", and can be thought of as another word for "Guna". Thus, the various forms of God are given this name, as each of those forms is related to a specific quality and function (for example, Brahma has the quality of Creation, Kamadeva has the quality of love, etc.). Also, Deva is thus used to describe anyone who is considered to possess a special quality.

Since Deva is symbolic of the individual qualities of God, the word demonstrates the inherent oneness of those different Forms, and thus the use of this word can be taken as describing the fundamental unity of God. Thus we see that here, we reaffirm that central belief in the Hindu Dharma that "Ekam sat viprah bahudah vadanti" (Truth, or God, is one, but wise men call Him/It by diffeerent names).

Thus, Deva is indicative of the various multifaceted entity that is the absolute Personality of God. It describes in one word all the functions, roles and different attributes of God, and symbolises therefore his absolutely essential nature - without God, nothing can exist.

10. DHI-MA-HI (धीमहि s.6-8)

Meaning to meditate and focus our mind on God. Meditation on God implies that we remove all other thoughts from our mind, since thoughts of the world render our mind impure, and thus we are unable to conceptualise the absolute purity of God. We must be able to concentrate, and direct our mental energies towards the task in hand - which is communion with God.

DHIYO YO NAH PRACHODAYAT (धीयो यो न: प्रचोदयात्)

Prayer is carried out for four main reasons:

• to praise and glorify God;
• to thank God;
• to ask forgiveness from God;
• or to make a request from God.

Having carried out the other three parts (praise of His greatness, thanks for His generosity in Creation and maintaining us through our lives, and forgiveness by demonstrating our awareness of our own impurity, which we have realised is present and must be cleansed through contact with God), this part is now our request from God. Since our soul is the Light of Life within us, and that acts on our body via the medium of the brain, we ask God to make this contact pure and righteous. The soul is of course inherently pure, being itself Divine in nature. The body is under the complete control of the mind. The link is the mind, which is affected not only by the soul, but also the outside world. We ask in these four words that God help us to improve our intellect, and guide it towards what is right.

11. DHI-YO (धीयो s.1,2)

Sanskrit for "intellect", this is the essence of this part of the Gayatri Mantra. Having firmly set God in our hearts, we now must try to emphasise His presence and influence on our mind and intellect.

Material prosperity holds no true meaning for the person who is truly devoted to God. Pain and suffering are of no consequence to him as, touched by God, he is imbued with God's own Divine Bliss, and all worldy sorrows pale to nothingness in comparison. However, still the individual must live in the world. Thus, it is important that the person's intellect remains focussed on serving God, and that it is able, through the medium of the body, to serve God to the best of its ability.

Physical objects can be obtained very easily, if one is intelligent enough to know how to go about it. Intellect however cannot be obtained, but must be there from the very first. It is by use of this intellect, in fact, that one is able to cultivate all other qualities (building of wealth, "success" in life (in material terms), physical fitness, etc.) Thus, intellect is the key to all else in life, and as such, it is the most important possession. We ask God in the Gayatri Mantra to gift us with the highest intellect, and to help us by showing us the way to use that intellect.

12. YO (यो s.3)

Meaning "Who" or "That", Yo signifies yet again that it is not to anyone else that we direct these prayers, but to God alone. Only God is worthy of the highest adoration, only God is perfect and free from all defects. It is That God to Whom we offer these prayers.

13. NAH (न: s.4)

Nah means "Ours", and signifies the selflessness of the request we make of God in this part of the Gayatri Mantra. We offer this prayer, and make the request of God, not simply for ourselves, but for the whole of humanity. We seek the uplift of the whole of society. Hindu philosophy has since the beginning recognised the concept of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - "The whole world is one big family". Thus, we pray not only for ourselves, but for each and every member of that great family, that we may all benefit from the greatness and generosity of the All-loving God.

14. PRA-CHO-DA-YAT (प्रचोदयात् s.5-8)

Prachodayat, the final word of the Gayatri Mantra, rounds off the whole mantra, and completes the request we make of God in this final part. This word is a request from God, in which we ask Him for Guidance, and Inspiration. We ask that, by showing us His Divine and Glorious Light (cf. BHARGO), He remove the darkness of Maya from our paths, that we are able to see the way, and in this manner, we ask Him to direct our energies in the right way, guiding us through the chaos of this world, to find sanctuary in the tranquility and peace of God Himself, the root of all Happiness, and the source of true Bliss.

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Meenakshi Ammam Temple Madurai

Meenakshi Ammam Temple Madurai

HISTORY

According to legend, the sacred Suyambulingam discovered by the king of Gods indira at Kadambavanam, was later enshrined by him in Madurai. The fact that the Lord is seen on the vehicle of Indira in this temple is said to be proof for this.

Many historical evidences of the temple have been found dating back from early A.D

The temple was almost completely destroyed in the year 1310 following the invasion of the Islamic conqueror Malikkapur. As kings who were followers of Islam were noted for their intolerance towards other religions, the invaders destroyed most of the ancient sculptures of the temple.

Thirugnanasambandar the Hindu Saint has mentioned the temple in his songs which go back to early 7th century. The Lord has been described as Alavai Iraivan in his songs.

The temple was restored to its pristine glory in the late 14th century when the Hindu Kings came back to power in Madurai. This can also be termed as a new beginning of a new era in the history of the temple, when it was almost rebuilt.

The King Thirumalai Naicker played an important role in the construction of the new form of the temple according to records.

The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is now under the administration of the HR and CE department of Tamil Nadu.

DEITIES

The presiding Lord of this sacred shrine was in the times of yore known as Chockanathar, and Chockalinga Perumal.

Now the deity is known as Sundareswarar, Meenakshi Sundarar, Somasundarar, Kalyana Sundarar, Shanbaga Sundarar, Attavai Shevagan, Chockalingam, Adiyarku Nallan, Adhiraveesi, Vilayaduvan, Abhideka Chockar, Azhagiya Chockar, Kadambavana Chockar, Puzhugu Neidhu Chockar, Kadambavaneswarar, Karpoora Chockar, Madureswarar, Irayanar, Peralavayar and other names.

The Goddess of this Temple is Meenakshi. In euphonic Tamil, she is also called Angayarkanni. She is also known as Pachchai Devi, Maragathavalli, Thadagai Pirattti, Abhitekavalli, Abhiramavalli, Kayarkan Kumari, Karpooravalli, Kumarithurayaval, Komagal, Sundaravalli, Pandipiratti, Madhurapuri Thalaivi, Manickavalli, Mummulaithiru, and Vazhudhimagal.

In the stone inscriptions, the Devi has been referred to as Thirukamakottathu Aludaya Nachiyar.

HOLY TANK

Pottramarai Kulam (the Golden Lotus Pond):

It was in this pond that the Golden Lotus for Indra to perform his pooja bloomed. This pond is also known as Adhi Theertham, Sivaganga and Uthama Theertham. This pond is situated within the temple complex. This theertham was created by Lord Sivaperuman by thrusting his Soolam (three ptonged spear) into the earth in deference to the plea of Nandhi Devar and other deities. It was here, that the plank of Sangam appeared and established greatness of the moral text called Thirukkural. It was here that Chockalingam was found by the grace of the Lord, by the first Guru of Dharmapura Adheenam and Saint Srilasri Guru Gnanasambandar. In keeping with the boons granted by the Lord to a stork, upto this date no fish nor other life is found in this miraculous sacred pond. Since this theertam was created before all other theerthams it is called Adhi Theertham and because it is much greater importance than all other theerthams, it is also called Parama Theertham as Gnana Theertham because it confers prosperity on all who bathe in it. As it grants heavenly abode it is also called Mukthi Theertham and as Sivaganga because the water from Ganga from the head of Lord Siva confluences with it and as Uthama Theertham because of its purity than any other theertham..

If the devotees bathe in the waters of this pond of Golden Lotus on Amavasya (new moon) day, the first day of the month, days of eclipse and other auspicious days and worship the Lord, they will be blessed with all their aspirations for success.

Golden Lotus Pond

Ezhu Kadal (Seven seas) :

According to legend, in deference to the plea of Godess Thadathagai, the Lord summoned the seven seas for Kanchanamala..

Kondazhi:

This is also called Valaiveesi theppakulam. This is another holy theertham situated at Ellis Nagar..

River Vaigai:

Legend has it that the Lord ordained River Ganga to flood in the area in order to slake the thirst of Gundodaran. This river is also known as Poompunal Aru, Vaiyai, Poyyakulakodi, Sivagangai, Sivagnana Theertham and Vegavathi..

Kiruthamalai:

Kiruthumalai, another theertham is a tributary of Vaigai river...

Teppakulam (Lake):

The teppakulam was constructed by Thirumalai Nayakkar in 1645, about three kilometers east of the temple. Every year on the day of Thaipoosam Godess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar are taken in procession on a decorated float on this lake, when they bless the devotees. This is one of the famous festivals of Madurai....

Purathotti Nirmaliya Theertham:

This is a theertham on the second corridor of the Swamy temple...

STRUCTURE

Arulmigu Meenakshi Amman Temple is situated in the heart of the city of Madurai covering an area of 17 acres, the entire city being built around it
The temple which has five entrances, covers an area 847 feet (254.1 meters) long and 792 feet (237.6 meters) wide in the North South direction, the circumference of the Adi Veedhi which is the path within the great walls is 830 feet (249 meters) on the east west and , measuring 730 feet (219 meters) from North South direction.

TOWERS

The temple has four Rajagopurams or majestic towers, there are five towers on top of the sanctum sanctorum of the Lord, three on top of the sanctum sanctorum of the Goddess and two golden towers or gopurams, all which have been exquisitely designed and sculptured. All fourteen towers have been segregated based on the stages they are,

Nine tier gopurams- four

• Seven tier, Chittirai gopuram - one
• Five tier gopurams - five
• Three tier gopurams - two
• Golden gopurams - two

Rajagopurams (nine tier gopurams)

1. The tower on top of the sanctum sanctorm of the God (east)

• The tower is 153.3 feet in height, and the base measurers 111.3 feet by 65.6 feet..
• This bears 1011 episodes from puranams sculptured in it.

2.South Rajagopuram

• It was constructed in the year 1559 by Siramalai Sevanthi Murthy Chetti.
• It is the tallest of the temple towers measuring 160.9 feet in height, with a base area of 108 feet by 67 feet
• 1511 mythological figures are seen in it.

3. North Rajagopuram (Tower without roof)

• Construction of this tower was started by Krishnaveerappanaicker (1564 - 1572) and completed by the family of Amaravathi Pudur Vayinagaram Nagappa Chetti in 1878.
• This gopuram remaied unfinished for a number of years and was therefore called Mottai Gopuram meaning a tower without a roof.
• This is 152 feet in height and the length of the base is 111.6 feet with a width of 66.6 feet.
• This houses 404 carvings depicting mythological stories.

4.The West Rajagopuram.

• This was constructed by King Parakrama Pandian duri ng his reign between 1315 and 1347.
• This has a height of 154.6 feet with a base length of 101 feet and a width of 63.6 feet.
• This tower houses 1124 sculptures of mythological importance.
  

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Sree Venkateswara Swamy Suprabatham

Sree Venkateswara Swamy Suprabatham

The Venkaṭesa suprabhatam was composed around 1430 A.D. by Prativādibhayaṅkara Śrī Anantācārya (also known as Annangaracharyar, and P B Annan), the Rāmānujācārya of Kanchipuram.[1][4] The poet was a disciple of Swami Manavala Mamuni, who composed Sri Ranganatha Suprabhatam. Sri Venkatesa Suprabhatam consists of four parts: Suprabhatam, Sri Venkatesa Stothram, Prapatti, and Mangalasasanam. Lakshmi Narayana deity, Sri-Bhu Devi sametha Padmanabha Swamy deity and 12 divya salagrama silas once worshiped by him are now with Prativada Bhayankaram Raghavacharyulu 15th generation from Sri Annan Swamy. These are now being worshiped daily at Divya Salagrama Kshetram in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.

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lalitha Sahasranamam

LALITA SAHASRANAMA

The Mother of the Universe

This is the work of Sri Bhaskararaya. I have translated it for the Truth Seeker, as it is very highly respected by all devotees of the Kundalini, The Mother of the Universe. It is the best japa to please the Mother of the Universe. All Mantras are hidden in this japa, the fulfilment of all desires. The sick have been healed by only reading it, the poor have attained wealth, and fears have been removed. "To obtain the favor of the Mother of the Universe, one should repeat the Thousand Names."

"He who recites my Thousand Names once, is my devotee. He shall be known as dear to me, and I will give him all that he desires when having worshipped me in the Sir Chakras."

The Vyu Purana says: "One should repeat Devi's names on the water, in the forest, on the land, and any place where fear arises from wild animals or thieves. The names of Devi's should be repeated always, for such a one will be liberated from himself and bondage."

p. 88

The Kebika Purana says: "O Mother of the Universe, those who praise Thee by words,—Ambika, Jaganmaya and Maya will obtain All."

"The Vandika and Tantrika rites of repeating once the Thousand Names are better than bathing in the Holy Ganges, or other places."

For the purification of oneself and fulfilment of desires, repeat the Thousand Names.

Swami Vivekananda, wrote in his book Raja Yoga, about, 'The power of words.' "There are certain sacred words called Mantrams, which have power, when repeated under proper conditions, to produce these extraordinary powers. We are living in the midst of such a mass of miracles, day and night, that we do not think anything of them. There is no limit to man's power, the power of words and the power of mind."

The reader will find these Thousand sayings, like the Upanishads teachings, beginning from Gross to Subtle and more Subtle Truth. The repetition of many words will be found here but these are most important.

Author—May 10, 1930.

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Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram by M.S.Subbulakshmi Telugu Devotional Song

Sri Vishnu Murthy Swamy Photo

The Vishnu sahasranama (Sanskrit viṣṇusahasranāma, a tatpurusha compound translating literally to "the thousand names of Vishnu") is a list of 1,000 names (sahasranama) of Vishnu, one of the main forms of God in Hinduism and the personal supreme God for Vaishnavas (followers of Vishnu). It is also one of the most sacred and commonly chanted stotras in Hinduism. The Vishnu sahasranama as found in the Mahabharata is the most popular version of the 1000 names of Vishnu. Another version exists in the Padma Purana and Matsya Purana. Each name eulogizes one of His countless great attributes.

The Vishnu sahasranāma has been the subject of numerous commentaries. Adi Shankaracharya wrote a definitive commentary on the sahasranāma in the 8th century, which is the oldest and has been particularly influential for many schools of Hinduism even today. Parasara Bhattar, a follower of Ramanujacharya wrote a commentary in the 12th century, detailing the names of Vishnu from a Vishishtadvaita perspective. Madhvacharya also wrote a commentary on Vishnu sahasranama, disclosing that each name in the sahasranama has a minimum of 100 meaning. Upon being challenged by the audience during his time, Sri Madhvacharaya not only gives 100 meanings for each of the Vishnu sahasranāma but also expands on each of the meanings making it a multi-fold complexity and displays an outspoken quality to hold and explain the real and deep hidden meaning of sahasranāma. Hindu literature includes sahasranamas dedicated to Shiva, Devi, Ganesha and other popular deities.

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Ashtavinayaka or Eight Ganeshas

Ballaleshwar pali Swamy

Ashtavinayaka or eight Ganeshas is located in Maharashtra state of India, The Ashtavinayaka yatra or pilgrimage covers the eight holy temples of Ganesha .All the Eight Temples are Swayambhu (self-originated) and Jagrut.There are various names of Lord Ganesh for various places. The various names of Lord Ganesh are Moreshwar, Mahaganpati, Chintamani, Girijatmak, Vighneshwar, Siddhivinayak, Ballaleshwar and Varad VinayakThese Temples are situated at Morgaon, Ranjangaon, Theur, Lenyadri, Ojhar, Siddhatek, Pali and Mahad. These places are at Pune, Ahamadnagar and Raigad district. Of the 8 vinayakas, 6 are in Pune district area and 2 in Raigad district but still comparatively nearer to the Pune areas

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Shree Moreshwar Swamy Temple Morgaon

Shree Moreshwar Swamy

NIJE BHUSWANANDJADBHARAT BHUMYA PARATARE |
TURIYOSTIRE PARAMSUKHDETVA NIVASASI ||
MAYURAYA NATH STAWAMASICH MAYURESH BHAGWAN |
ATASWA SANDHYAYE SHIVHARINI BRAHMAJANAKAM ||

Meaning :

O! Lord Mayureshwar of Morgaon,you stay on sage jadbharat's land, on the banks of river
Karha which is known as "Bhuswanand' (means happiness on land). Shree Moreshwar, who is far from three qualities, who rsembles Omkar, who is always in fourth state of yoga & who rides on peacock mayu accept my salutation.

Morgaon, situated on the banks of river Karha comes in Baramati Taluka, in District Pune. It is said that shape of this place is like a peacock & once upon a time there were so many peacocks in the Morgaon, as such it is called as "Morgaon'.

TEMPLE

SHREE MAYURESHWAR'S TEMPLE

The main temple facing towards north is in the centre of village and looks like a small fortress or chateu. The temple complex comprising of a dome, surrounded by a 50 ft high encloser and decked with four pillars in each corners, portrays from afar and image of a mosque. While going towards the temple a huge Deep-mala (stone pillar for oil lamps)will be seen at first. In front of this Deep-Mala, there is one Nagarkhana (where kettledrums are kept). Near this Nagarkhana, thee is a mouse made up of black stone,holding 'Laddu' in his front two legs. On climbing the steps you will see a big 'Nandi is present before Ganapati instead of Lord Shiva? You will find answer to this question in this legend :-

'Years ago, this Nandi was taken on a cart for its consecration in front of a near by Shivalaya. However, the cart carrying Nandi broke in front of Mayureshwara's temple and Nandi-Maharaj sat before Mayureshwar's temple for ever. People tried their best to shift Nandi from this place but nandi did not move an inch. The artisan carrying cart had omen in the night. Nandi appeared in his dream and said, "I want to stay before Mayureshwar only. Don't try to shift me elsewhere forcefully, I won't come." People left with no other alternative dropped the idea of shifting Nandi to other place. Like this Nandiji was consecrated before Mayureshwar.

The main temple is made up of black stone. The temple constructed during Bahamani regime was built in typical Moghule style by Mr.Gole,a Hindu officer in the court of patshah.

The temple has four gates. In the eastern gate is Lakshminarayan, giver of Dharma. In the sourthern gate are parvati & shankar givers of Artha (desired goals). Then comes western gate where Rati & kama resides. Lastely in the northern gate reside, Mahivaraha (Earth & SUn).

Thus all deities & all sages resides in this temple. In the eight corners, there are eight statutes of Ganapati called EKDANTA, MAHODARA,GAJANANA,LAMBODAR,VIKATA, VIGHARAJA, DHUMRAVARNA & VAKRATUNDA.

In the temple complex there are trees of Shami, Mandar & Tarati. The tree of Tarati is also called as Kalpavruksha.
Devotees meditate under this tree & attain desired goals.

Before taking darshan of Mayureshwar, first take darshan of 'Nagnabhairava' on the left side of Mayureshwar, and offer him naivaidya of coconut & jaggary.

Nobody is allowed to enter the Sanctum & do the Pooja of Moreshwar on his own.The various virtuous deeds performed here are Abhishek Pooja, Sahastravartan,Japa Yadnya,Mahadwar Yatra etc.

IDOL

SHREE MAYURESHWAR'S IDOL

The deity 'Moreshwara' inside the sanctum is very attractive. It is in sitting posture, fasing east with the trunk turning left & smeared with vermillion mixed in oil. In it's eyes & navel, diamonds are embedded. On its head is the hood of Nagaraja. On left & right are brass idols of Siddhi & Buddhi. In front of the idol are the Mooshaka (Rat) & Mayura (Peacock).On doing Abhishek on 'Moreshwar' all desires are fulfilled.

The orignal idol of Moreshwar was small in size. As many layers of vermillion are applied on it, it looks bigger. Sometime after 100 &125 years this armour of vermillion casts off & orignal beautiful idol inside this armour is seen again. It has been heard that Mayureshwar's armour has been cast off in 1788 &1822 A.D. The orignal small idol was made up of atoms of sand,iron &diamonds & it is behind the present statue. It was consecrated by God Brahma. On its destruction by demon Sindhurasur, God Bhrama reconsecrated it twice. They enclosed the idol in tin sheet, So that nobody can try to destroy it.

ROUTE

Various routes going to Morgaon are as follows:
1. State transport buses are available from Pune's swargate bus depot.
2.On Pune-Solapur highway 56kms from Pune,Morgaon lies on the right side of chaufula.Morgaon via Pune-Hadapsar-loni-chaufula-supa is at a distance of 79 km.
3. Another route leading to Morgaon via Hadapsar-saswad-jejuri covers 64kms.
4. On the way to Morgaon have darshan of God Khandoba of jejuri & then go to Margaon by bus which is at a distance of 15 kms from jejuri.
5. On Pune-Solapur railway line,get down at Neera railway station & go to Morgaon by bus.
6. On Pune-Daund railway line, get down at Kedgaon & go to Morgaon by S.T.

FESTIVALS

DAILY PROGRAMMES & FESTIVALS IN MAYURESHWAR'S TEMPLE

Moreshwar's pooja is done thrice a day. In the morning at 5'Oclock Prakshal Pooja is done. This pooja is done by Gurav poojari. 'Shodopachar Pooja' is done at 7'Oclock in morning & at 12'Oclock in the afternoon. These pooja's are done by Brahmin poojari. At the time of pooja Ganesh Atharvashirsha's Aavarthana (Repeatative cycles) are made.

In the morning pooja, Khichadi & Chapiti, in the afternoon pooja full meal & in the night milk & rice are offered as Naivaidyam to Mayureshwar. Temple remains open for darshan from 5 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.

Two festivals on Bhadrapada Shudda Chaturti & Magh Shuddha Chaturthi are celebrated on grand scale in Morgaon.

Besides this Vijayadashami (Dasehara) & Somavati Amavasya are also celebrated on big scale. On Vijayadashami Mayureshwar's Palanpuin begins at 11'Oclock in the night.

Palanquin procession is worth seeing. Fire crackers made in the village are burst on a large scale. Palkhi procession goes round the village for the whole night & at the break of dawn palkhi reaches at the Someshwar's temple. At that time, names villagers are read according to their ancestral hierachy. Programme called Annasantarpana. It means naivaidyam from different houses is gathered & it is distrubuted among devotes as mahaprasad. Nearly 10-15 thousand devotees come for such yatra.

OTHER INFORMATION

DEVINE ASCETICS OF MORGAON
1. Shreemad yogindracharaya appeared in Morgaon in Shaliwahan Shake 1499 & took samadhi in shake 1727. He spent his long 228 yrs life in worshipping & propitiating Ganeshyog. It is said that Shree Mayureshwar, himself in the guise of Bhramin gave him 9 parts of Mudgal purana & he had written his exposition on it. Importance of Ganapatis, yogaswaroop & Yogageeta is described in it.
2. Samadhi Mandir of Shree Ganesha Yogindracharya on the south coast of Kerela river is a place of tourist interests. In the same mandir there are samadi's of Shri Ankushdhari Maharaj & Shreemad Herambh Maharaj. Festivals & death anniversaries of this sect is in Morgaon near the temple.
3. Morgaon is a birthplace of famous hermit Morya Gosawi. He found Ganesh idol in Brahma Kamandalu Tirth. He consecrated this idol in the temple at Chinchwad. Morya Gosawi's Palkhi comes from Chinchwad to Morgaon on Bhadrapad & Magh Shudh Chatruthi. He took samadhi at Chinchwad in 1655 A.D.
4. Sukhakarta Dukhaharta Varta Vighnachi ......
A great saint Samarth Ramdas Swami wrote above said Aarti instantaneously after taking Mayrushwar's Darshan. This Aarti has become immortal in Maharashtra.
5. At the left side of Mayureshwar there is one small room called Vighneshwar's owari (owari means place reserved for meditation) At the end of seventeenth century a great Ganesh devotee known as Ganesh Yogindra used to stay in this owari. He had performed penances for 12 years. He had written his comments on Sanskrit Ganesh Purana. He took samadhi at Morgaon in 1727 A.D.

OTHER RELIGIOUS PLACES IN MORGAON

Morgaon is situated on the banks of river Karha. Legend heard about the origin of Karhaganga is ....
Once Brahamadeva misbehaved with Goddess Saraswati. He felt very much guilty of his behaviour. He became restless. To purify his mind he visited all holy places in the world, conducted all the rituals and collected the holy water (Tirth) in his Kamandalu. Then also he was not pacified so he came to Morgaon. He did Pooja-Abhishek on Mayureshwar. While taking holy rounds of Mayureshwar, Kamandalu filled with sacred water was tumbled down by Brahamadeva's leg. God Brahma was sorely dissappointed. While he was refilling his Kamandalu Shree Mayureshwar said, "O God Brahma ! Don't feel disappointed and don't fill this Kamandalu. Let this water be flown here in the form of river. Brahma Kamandalu Ganga i.e Karhaganga to destroy world's sin. You take a spoonful of sacred water and be purified."
Like this Karhaganga appeared in Morgaon. There are seven tirthas in the course of five miles of river Karha. They are Shree Ganesh Tirth, Bhima Tirth, Vyas Tirth, Rishi Tirth, Sarvapunya Tirth and Shree Ganeshgaya Tirth.

JADBHARAT

To the North of Karhaganga, at a distance of one mile there is a land of Jadbharat Muni. Previously there used to be a big Aashram of Jadbharat Muni. At present there is only one big rock having five lingas of Mahadev. It is necessary to take darshan of Jadbharat Rock when you visit Morgaon.

NAGNABHAIRAV

Nagnabhairav temple is situated to the east of Morgaon on the border of village. Yatra (Pilgrimage) is not completed without having darshan of Nagnabhairav. Jaggery and Coconut are to be bestowed as Naivedyam over there. He is caretaker of Kshetra Morgaon and he protects Ganesh devotees and give them prosperity. If it is not possible to visit this place, you can very well complete these rituals in the small temple of Nagnabhairav just to the left side of Mayureshwar's sanctum.

OTHER NECESSARY INFORMATION

1. Morgaon Ganapati Devasthan Trust is under control of Chinchwad Devasthan Trust.
2. On taking appropriate donations from devotees, various types of rituals such as Pooja-Abhishek, Ekadashani, Sahastravartan, Japayagna, etc, are performed by temple trust.
3. 64 villages are donated to Morgaon. One fourth part of the revenue collected from these villages is given to temple district magistrate trustees look after the adminstration of temple.
4. Shree Mayureshwar has many ornaments of gold, silver and diamond.
5. Devotees coming to Morgaon should definately visit Saswad, Samadhi place of Sopandev Maharaj. Sangameshwar and Changawateshwar are also places of Pilgrim's interest.
6. Lodging arrangement is available at following places:

a. Dharmashala of temple trust is near the temple.
b. In Yogendrament Shri Suresh Takasale looks after lodging arrangement.
c. A good arrangement of lodging, boarding can be made at following two places -
i) Mr. Viju Dhere, morgaon, Dist. Pune.
ii) Mr. Kumar Wagh, durvankur, Morgaon, Tal. Baramiti, Dist. Pune Tel. No. STD-02112- 79752
Various religions rituals are also performed on behalf of devotees by above said people.
Panchdevtas i.e. Bhrama, vishnu, Shankar, Devi & Surya once meditated here to know who created them & for what purpose. A jyoti (flame) appeared before them in form of 'OM' Kara. From this 'OM' came out to Lord Ganapati with the elephant face.

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Shree Chintamani Vinayaka Swamy Temple Theur

Shree Chintamani Vinayaka Swamy Temple Theur

Brahma Srushtyadisakta Sthirmatirahittam Pidito Vighnasandhe |
Aakranto Bhutirakta Krutiganrajasa Jeevita Tyaktu Mischina ||
Swatmanan Sarvyakta Ganapatimamal Satyachintamaniyam |
Mukta cha stapayant sthirmatisukhadam sthavare dhudhi Midhe ||

Meaning :
The one who is search of happiness, whose mind is wavering like Lord Brahma, who is in the midst all calamities should go to Sthavar means Theur & worship Shree Chintamani & get rid of all Chintas (worries) & calamities.

Lord Brahma meditated here to subdue his waveringmind. As his worries (chinta) were removed the idol is called Chintamani. The place is called Sthar (stable) or Theur.

Theur is the nearest place of Ashtavinayak from Pune. Having mythological & historical importance, Theur is popular for various reasons.

GREAT ASCETICS OF THEUR
Morya Gosavi of Chinchwad performed penances in the forest of Theur. As a result Shree Ganesh emerged in the guise of two Tigers.

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE OF THEUR
Shri Chintamani is a family of God of Shreemant Madhavrao Peshwa. His palace was near the temple and now it is converted into garden. Madhavrao Peshwe had stayed in this palace in his last sickness. He renovated the temple and performed various religious programmes in the temple. By chanting Gajanan, Gajanan he bestowed his life on the foot of the Chintamani. Ramabai, wife of Madhavrao Peshwe became Sati (she burnt herself with the corpse of her husband). On that place, that is, on the bank of Mula-Mutha river Sati's Vrindavan is built. That day was 18-11-1772, Kartik Vadya Ashtami. On this day Rama-Madhav death anniversary is celebrated every year.

SHREE CHINTAMANI'S TEMPLE & IDOL
The main archway of the temple faces north. Peshwa had built a concrete road from main gate upto Mula-Mutha river. Temple hall is made up of wood and there is small fountain made up of black stone in the hall. The courtyard of the temple is quite big paved with floor. There is small temple of Lord Shankar in the courtyard of the temple. A big bell can also be seen in the temple.

Chintamani Ganapati's temple was built by Dharanidhar Maharaj Dev in the family of Morya Gosavi. 100 years after that Madhavrao Peshwa built a hall for this temple. Haripant Phadke and other devotees had done timely repairs of the temple and added to the security and beauty of the temple.

Idol facing east is swayambhu (self emanated) and has a left side trunk. There are carbuncle and diamonds in the eyes of Vinayaka.

ROUTE
In Haveli Taluka of District Pune, Theur is at the distance of 25 km from Pune. Theur is situted on the confluence of the Mula, Mutha & Bhima rivers.

Various routes available for going to Theur are as follows :

1. Regular P.M.T. ( Poona Motor Transport ) buses are available from Sarasbag or Poolgate bus stand of Pune.
2. On Pune Solapur highway, after Hadapsar and Loni, at a distance of 3kms. From Loni a small road to the left leads to Theur.

Sugarcane is cultivated on large scale in the Theur. Vasantrao Naik sugar factory is nearby. Number of trucks loaded with sugarcane will be seen in the Theur.

FESTIVALS
Two festivals, one in Bhadrapada from Pratipada to Saptami and another in Magh are celebrated in Theur on grand scale. In those days Ganesh idols in the nearby temples are worshipped and offered naivedyam. This is called as Dwaryatra.

On Sankashti and Angaraki people donate food. They have been provided with equipment for preparing food. Rama Madhav death anniversary is celebrated here on Kartik Vadya Ashtami on large scale.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. It is said that Emperor Aurangzeb had given grant to this temple. Nowadays administration of this temple is governed by Chinchwad Temple Trust.
2. On giving, appropriate donations Abhishek, Ekadashi, Sahastravartana, etc. are done by Poojari. Prasad and Angara (wholy ashes) are sent by post.

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Shree Siddhi Vinayakak Swamy Temple Siddhatek

Shree Siddhi Vinayakak Swamy Temple Siddhatek

Sthitho Bhimatire jagadvan kamen Harina |
Vijetu Daityo Tachuti Malbhavou Kaitabhmadhu ||
Mahavighnarten Prakhar Tapasa Seitpado |
Ganesh Siddhisho Girivarvapu Panchjanak ||

Meaning :
Lord shri Hari Vishnu, Who was surrounded by fierce calamaties, performed penance on mountain Siddhetekwhich is on the bank of river Bhima. On receiving boon from Lord Shri Ganesh, Lord Vishnu killed two demons Madhu & Kaitabh. Oh! Lord Siddheswar Shri Ganesh accept my salutation.

Lord Vishnu got Siddhi at Siddhatek as such Ganesh idol here is called as Siddhivinayak . It is believed that Siddhivinayak leads work to the completion. Shree Siddhivinayak is supposed to be Jagrut place (awakened) of Shree Ganesh.
Morya Gosavi of Morgaon & Narayan Maharaj of Kedgaon have attained siddhi here. Peshva Senapati Shree Haripant Phadke resume his lost post by performing Vinayak's penance for 21 days.

ROUTE
Situated on the banks of river Bhima Siddhatek lies in Karjat taluka of Ahmednagar district. Wheat & Suggarcane fields are seen every where. Small houses covered with grass & walls made up of soil is speciality of this area.Herds of animals & sheeps will be seen grazing on expanded fields.

Following routes are available for going to Siddhatek:
1. For going to Siddhatek, Daund is convinient railway station on Pune - Solapur railway line.(Dhund is at 78 kms from Pune via Hadapsar-Loni-Yavat-Chaufula & Patas).
Daund-Siddhatek is 18kms. State transport buses stops at Shirapur, 1km prior to Siddhatek. By walking down a distance of 1km from Shirapur you come across river Bhima.

On crossing river Bhima by boat you are in Siddhatek. You will be astonished to know that before crossing the river you are in Pune Dist. (Shirapur) & on crossing the river when youare on another bank of river that is when you are in Siddhatek you are in Ahmednagar district.
2. From Mumbai you can go to Siddhatek via Patas, Bhigwan and Rashin.
3. Siddhatek via long route of Daund-Kashti-Pedgaon (without crossing river) is at a distance of 48 Kms.

DAILY PROGRAMMES

DAILY PROGRAMMES IN SIDDHIVINAYAKA'S TEMPLE
Temple is opened at 4.00 o'clock in the morning. From 4.30 a.m. to 5.00 o'clock Ganesh Pooja is performed. Khichadi Naivedyam is offered at 10.00 o'clock in the morning, Panchamrut (milk, curd, honey, ghee) pooja is done at 11.00 a.m. and Mahanaivedyam is offered at 12.00 noon. Third pooja is performed after sunset. Dhooparati takes place from 8.30 p.m. to 9.15 p.m. and the temple closes for the day.

FESTIVALS
Bhadrapada and Magh Shudh Pratipada to Panchami (from 1st day to 5th day) are celebrated on grand scale. Maha Pooja and Maha Naivedyam is offered continously for three days. Palanquin of Siddhivinayak is set out at 8.00 p.m. for continously 3 nights. Shree Dharanidhar Chintaman Dev is landlord of Siddhatek. Morning Kapoor (camphor) Aarti is sponsored by him. Land revenue is utilised towards expenses of festivals, Naivedyam and Nandadeep. Large number of devotees attend Magh festival.

SHREE SHREE SIDDHIVINAYAKA TEMPLE
Siddhatek is situated on the banks of river Bhima. On crossing the river, while going towards the temple, you will come across the place where sage Vyas had performed yadnya (sacrifices). It said that, years ago there was a heap of ashes from this sacrificial fire. However, this place is now covered by water. The road leading to main temple was built by Peshwa's Senapati Haripant Phadke.

Shree Siddhivinayak's temple is on hill top facing north. Sanctum of the temple, which is fifteen feet high and ten feet broad was built by Ahilyabai Holkar.

The swayambhu idol of Shree Siddhivinayaka is placed in brass frame. Brass idols of Jay and Vijay are placed on both sides of Siddhivinayaka. In the sanctum itself there is a Shivapanchayatan and goddess Shivai's small temple. Hall of the temple was previously built by Baroda's landlord late Shri Mairal. It was broken in 1939 and was rebuilt by all Ganesh devotees in 1970. Nagarkhana on the main gate was built in memory of Shree Haripant Phadke.

SHREE SIDDHIVINAYAK'S IDOL
The idol is swayambhu, 3 feet tall, facing north with his trunk turned right. Idol is Gajmukh, however beilly of the idol is not big. Riddhi & Siddhi are sitting on one lap of Vinayaka. Face is very calm and serene.

The pradakshana (circumnavigation) of the God is said to very fruitful. One has to travel 5 kms. to complete one Pradakshana as the idol is attached to the hill itself.

OTHER INFORMATION

STORY OF SIDDHIVINAYAKA IN PESHWA PERIOD
Peshwa's Senapati (commander of Army) Haripant Phadke came to Siddhivinayaka on loosing his designation. He performed 21 days Anushthan (ceremony to propitiate God). Accordingly he vowed to circumnavigate Shree Siddhivinayaka 21 times in a day continously for 21 days. Exactly on 21 st day Peshwa's messenger came to Siddhatek and took Haripant Phadke to Pune honourably.

He constructed ghat on the river and also built village gate.
1. The place where SAge Bhrushandi had performed penances is nearer to the temple.
2. Siddhatek temple trust is under control of Chinchwad Temple Trust.
3. On giving appropriate donations temple trust or poojari performs Abhishek, Pooja and Sahastravartan. Prasad and holy ashes are sent by post.
4. Temple trust is constructing a building fro purpose of devotees.
5. Rules for performing pooja of Siddhivinayak are observed very strictly as such devotees are not allowed to do pooja personally.
6. Shree Siddhivinayak lodging and boarding is available near the temple. Rate for single room for one day is Rs.75/- and for big hall is Rs. 251/-.
7. A very good arrangement of lodging and boarding can be made by Shree Gajanan purohit who is ancestral poojari of Siddhatek.
8. In monsoon transportation is not possible due to bad roads.
9. Central Bank Siddhatek branch is near the temple.
As such Siddhatek is holy place where God Vishnu, Sage Vyas and Bhrushundi, hermit Morya Gosavi and Narayan Maharaj had attained siddhi.

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Shree MahaGanapathi Temple Ranjangaon

Shree MahaGanapathi Temple Ranjangaon

Shree Shambhuvarprada Sutapasa Namna Sahastra Swakam |
Datwa Shree Vijay padam shivkar Tasme Prasanna Prabhu ||
Ten Sthapit Eva Sadgunavapu Kshetre Sadatishtati |
Tam vande Manipurke Ganapati Devam Mahant Mudra ||

Meaning :
Lord Shivshankar obtained a boon by propitiating Lord Shree Ganesh who stays at Manipur,
who gave boon to Mahadev, whose appearance is beautiful & pleasing & who is statue of good qualities.

Mahaganapati means powerful Ganapati. Mahaganapati has eight, ten or twelve hands.Lord Shivshankar got victory over Tripurasur (demon) on worshipping Mahaganapati. Therefore it is called "tripurari Varado Mahaganapati.
(Lord Shivshankar is called as Tripurari after his victory over Tripurasur)

SHREE MAHAGANAPATI'S TEMPLE
Temple facing east has huge & beautiful entrance gate. Idols of two door keepers namely Jay & vijay are present near the gateway. Nagarkhana is situated above the entrance gate. This Nagarkhana was inaugarated by Maharashtra's honourable Chief Minister Shri Monohar Joshi on 3rd May,1997.

Main temple looks like temple from Peshwa's period. Temple is so constructed that sun rays fall directly on Shree Ganesha's idol. Since, this temple was on his way to war, Shreemant Madhavrao Peshwa used to halt here & have Mahaganapati's darshan. He had constructed a stone sanctum around this swayambhu or self emanated idol. In 1790 A.D he gave a hereditary right to perform pooja of Mahaganapati to shri Anyaba Dev. Temple hall was built by Sardar Kibe & Owaris (several small apartments erected along the course of enclosing wall of temple) were built by Sardar Pawar & Shinde. Famous hermit Morya Gosavi had presented an idol made of five metals to Shri Anyaba Dev. This idol is taken out in procession on festive days.

SHREE MAHAGANAPATI'S IDOL
Idol facing east is in a crossed legged sitting position with broad forhead & the trunk turned towards the left. Riddhi & Siddhi are on the both the sides of Mahaganapati.

It is said that,original idol of Mahaganapati is hidden in a cellar in the basement. It is also said that it has 10 trunks & 20 hands. Meditating on that idol is callaed Mahaganapati Dhyan.That idol is not taken out usually. Due to fear of muslim invasion, in good old days that idol was hidden. That Ganesha is called Mahotkata. However,temple trustees has refused existence of such an idol in the cellar.

The stone pillars of old temple will be seen in the compound which indicates that architecture of original temple shows similarity to 9th or 10th century architecture.

FESTIVALS
In Ranjangaon, villagers do not bring Ganesh idol in their houses, instead everybody comes in the temple for Ganesh pooja,in the month of Bhadrapada.The Ganesh festival is celebrated for first six days. In the first four days palanquin of Shree Mahaganapati is taken to different places in the village. It is called as Dwaryatra'.For the first four days villagers are allowed to enter the sanctum & perform pooja on their own.

On the fifth day Mahaprasad is distributed among the devotees. In the afternoon boxing competitions (kusti) are held in the village. On the sixth day devotees take darshan of murti & then go to Mahaganapati's temple by performing Lotangan (prostration) on the way.(lotangan means proceeding by rolling one's self over & over)

ROUTE

SHREE KSHETRA RANJANGAON'S GEOGRAPHICAL PLACE & MODES OF CONVEYANCE Ranjangaon is situated on Pune-Ahmednagar Highway. As such all state transport buses going from Pune to Ahmednagar halts at Ranjangaon.
1. On Pune-Ahmednagar Highway via Pune-Koregaon & Shikrapur, Ranjangaon is at a distance of 50 kms. from Pune.
2. Regular state transport buses ply from Shivajinagar bus stand of Pune.
While coming from Siddhatek to Ranjangaon you will come across Srigonda sugar factory.

OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj had given a grant to this temple.Similarly Madhavrao Peshwe,Malharrao Holkar, Mahadji Shinde had also given charities.
2. From the year 1942 administration of the temple is suprvised by trustees appointed by court.
3. Abhishek (Rs.11), Sahastravartan (Rs.101/-),Satyavinayak Pooja (Rs.51/-), etc. virtuous work are done by temple trust.
4. Lodging arrangements of devotees can be done by temple trust. Single room & common hall are available for the purpose. Address for advance booking.Shree kshetra Ranjangaon Ganapati Devastan Trust Tal.Shirur,Dist: Pune.
5. Chief Trustee & ancestral Poojary of Ranjangaon Ganapati is Vasant MOreshwar Dev. He can arrange for all virtuous deeds like Abhishek,Sahasravartan etc. Lodging & Boarding arrangements can be made by him.
6. Annapurna Bhojanalaya is available in temple complex. A beautiful garden namely Swanand Udyan is being prepared outside the temple.
7. Rs. 101/- are charged for video Shooting & Rs.51/- are charged for photography.
8. Temple is open for Darshan from 5.30 A.M. to 10.00 P.M.

OTHER RELIGIOUS PLACES IN RANJANGAON
1. At a distance of 16 kms after SHirur on Pune-Ahmedabad highway, there is a famous samadhi place of saint Limbraj Maharaj.
2. Gem of saints Shri Nilobarai's samadhi place, SHrikshetra Pimpalner is at a distance of 20 kms from Shirur.
3. It is said that in Nijam's regime, Shri Mahaganapati had given Darshan to one trader, Namdeo Buateli Manjrekar. His samadhi place is near to the temple.

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Shree Girijatmaj Vinayaka Swamy Temple Lenyadri

Shree Girijatmaj Vinayaka Swamy Temple Lenyadri

Mayesh Bhuvaneshwari Shivsati Dehashrita Sunday |
Vighnesham Sutmaptukam Sanhita Kurvetapo Dushkaram ||
Takhya Bhutprakat Prasanna vardo Tishtataya Sthapitam |
Vandeh Girijatmaj Parmaj Tam Lekhanadristhitam ||

Meaning :
Mother of universe, beautiful wife of Lord Shiva Goddess Parvati performed long penance
of Shri Ganesh & at last obtained Shree Ganesh as her son. I salute Girija Parvati's son Girijatmaj
who stayson mountain Lekhanadri(i.e.Lenyadri) Lenyadri is the only place among Ashtavinayaka places,which is situated on mountain & in the vicinity of the Buddhist caves.

TEMPLE

TEMPLE OF SHREE GIRIJATMAJ
Out of 18 Buddhist caves on mountain, Girijatmaj Vinayak's temple is in the eighth cave. These caves are also called as Ganesh caves. The temple is reached after climbing 307 steps. The entire temple is carved out of single stone and is facing south. In front of Main Mandir, there is huge Sabhamandap (Hall) which is nearly 53 feet long and 51 feet broad and to your surprise there is not a single pillar in this Sabhamandap. It has 18 small apartments for meditation. Shree Girijatmaj's idol is placed in the middle apartment.

Sabhamandap of main temple is only 7 feet high. It has six stone pillars with cow, elephant etc. carved on them. From the main temple one can view river flowing and the Junnar town spread near the river.

IDOL

SHREE GIRIJATMAJ'S IDOL

Girijatmaja's idol faces east. Parvati consecrated Ganesh idol in the cave wherein she had performed penances.

Idol here is not a separate and distinct one. It has been carved on stone wall of the cave. Previously idol was covered with armour. Now, since the armour is fallen Girijatmaj's idol with neck turned to left side can be seen. As such only one eye of the idol can be seen.

In this small sanctum anybody can perform Girijatmaj's Pooja on its own.

FESTIVALS

DAILY PROGRAMMES AND FESTIVALS
Girijatmaja's panchamrut pooja is performed everyday in the morning. Bhadrapada and Magh Shudh Chaturthi are celebrated here on grand scale.

In month of Magh there is Akhand Harinam Saptah for 7 days. On Ganesh Jayanti, Sermon on Ganesh Birth, bullock cart race etc. are conducted for entertainment.

On Bhadrapada Shudh Chaturthi, Abhishek, Pooja, Kirtan etc. are held in the temple.

SHREE KSHETRA LENYADRI'S GEOGRAPHICAL PLACE AND MODES OF CONVEYANCE
Lenyadri is situated on the North-West banks of river Kukadi. In Ganesha Purana this place was called as 'Jeernapur' or Lekhan parvat. River Kukadi flows between Junnar and Golegaon.
1. On Pune-Nashik Highway, Lenyadri via Chakan-Rajgurunagar, Manchar, Narayangaon and Junnar is at distance of 94 kms from Pune.
2. Nearby and convinient railway station is Pune and Talegaon.
3. Lenyadri is at a distance of 5 kms from Junnar. As such one has to come to Junnar first for going to Lenyadri. Rickshaws, Jeeps and Buses are available for going to Lenyadri from Junnar bus stand.
4. There are regular State Trasport buses for Junnar from Shivajinagar bus stand of Pune and from Mumbai Central bus stand of Mumbai.
5. There are 307 steps leading to Main Temple which is dedicated to Girijatmaj Ganapati. Arrangement of Palkhi or Doli can be made at the foothills for those devotees who are not able to climb up so many steps.

OTHER INFORMATION
1. Though the caves on Lenyadri are under control of Archeological Dept. of India, adminstration of Ganesh temple is looked after by Temple Trust.
2. Temple trust has built Yatri-Niwas for lodging purpose of devotees. At a time arrangement of 300 devotees can be done. Rs.200 are charged for a room having capacity of 10 people. Beddings are provided by trust. A very good lunch arrangements is available at Hotel Girija.
3. There is a small garden, namely Sunder Udyan near Bhakta-Niwas.
4. Lenyadri is name of Temple Trust and it comes in Golegaon. Main crops of this area are Grapes, Tomato, Cacumber and Sugarcane. A very good season for going to Lenyadri is from Diwali to May.
5. Since there are nearly 17 to 18 Buddhist caves on Lenyadri, it is called as Lenyadri. To the west there is a beautiful Stupa which is called as Bhima's Gada (mace). Sound echo's over here. One the top of mountain there is a Shiva's temple.
6. Fort Shivneri, where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born is at a distance of 5-6 kms from Lenyadri.
7. Virtuous deeds like Abhishek, Pooja, Sahastravartan etc. are done by temple trust on behalf of devotees.
8. Since the temple is under control of Archeological Dept. of India, there is no electricity in the temple. Temple is so constructed to have a sun light on idol from sunrise to sunset.
9. Since the Ganesh idol is attached to the wall one can not circumnavigate Girijatmaj.
Lenyadri is silent and lonely place. Silence loving people can come here and meditate and have Girijatmaj's blessings.

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