Pune, 1st January 2025: More than two weeks after it was closed for restoration, Pune’s revered Kasba Ganpati Temple reopened to devotees on Wednesday, unveiling the idol in its original form. The temple had been shut on December 15 to allow the careful removal of thick layers of sindoor that had accumulated on the idol over several decades.
Temple authorities said the sindoor layer weighed nearly 900 kg. Over time, the vermillion paste had begun damaging the protective covering of the idol, making the restoration work urgent to prevent future harm.
The restoration was carried out under the supervision of the Archaeological Department, ensuring that the sanctity and historical integrity of the idol were fully maintained. Officials confirmed that the original idol, the stone canopy above it, and the sanctum sanctorum were left completely intact during the process.
This marked the first time in the temple’s recorded history that such an extensive restoration exercise was undertaken.
The idol measures about 2 feet in length and nearly 1.5 feet in width. It is a traditional Chaturbhuj (four-armed) form of Lord Ganesh, with the trunk turned to the left and the deity seated in the Ardha Padmasana posture. With the removal of the sindoor layers, devotees can now view the original stone form of Pune’s presiding deity.
Samples of the removed sindoor have been sent to the Archaeological Department and Deccan College for detailed study. Based on this research, further historical and archaeological details about the idol are expected to be released later.
