Ganesh Chaturthi: As Ganesh Chaturthi draws to a close, take a moment to explore some of India's most revered Ganesha temples—each renowned for its unique idol, architectural grandeur, and deep-rooted devotion. From the serene hills of Hampi to the coastal shores of Maharashtra, these temples offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of India's spiritual heritage.
Founded in 1801 in Prabhadevi, this famed shrine is famed for its golden-domed sanctum, exquisitely carved wooden doors depicting the Ashtavinayak forms, and the wish-fulfilling Ganesha idol known as Siddhi Vinayak. Building legend and celebrity visits only deepen its spiritual aura.
Termed the “King of Lalbaug,” this public Ganpati idol is a magnet for over 1.5 million devotees each day during the festival. Believed to grant the wishes of those who seek His grace, it remains one of the most emotionally resonant symbols of Ganeshotsav.
Known for its opulent 7.5-foot gold-adorned idol, Dagdusheth Ganpati has grown from a sweet-maker's gesture of hope to one of Maharashtra’s most cherished temples. Its Ganeshotsav celebrations are lavish affairs, blending tradition with grandeur.
Home to a mysterious self-manifested idol that devotees believe continues to grow over time, this temple attracts visitors from across India, particularly during Ganeshotsav.
Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu
Nestled between Madurai and Karaikudi, the Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, commonly called Pillayarpatti Pillaiyar Temple, is among Tamil Nadu’s oldest rock-cut cave sanctuaries, dating back to the 7th century CE. What sets this temple apart is its six-foot tall Ganesha idol, carved directly from rock and featuring only two arms—an uncommon depiction found in very few places worldwide.
Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
Perched on the southeastern slopes of Hampi’s Hemakuta Hill, the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple boasts an awe-inspiring 8‑foot monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, carved directly out of granite in 1506 CE. The statue, celebrated for its “mustard seed”–shaped belly—“Sasivekalu” in Kannada—recounts a charming myth: Ganesha overeats and ties a serpent around his belly to keep it from bursting, famously depicted in the sculpture.
