-:
Hindu Temples :-
Lord
Ganesha Temples
Siddhi Vinayak Temple
Shree Ganesh is the first to be worshipped before beginning any new project or venture as he is the destroyer of obstacles (Vighnaharta). This is Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple at Prabhadevi in Mumbai, a two-century-old Temple that fulfills the desires of the worshipers.
The city of Mumbai is a mute witness to places of worship & historical interest, which are not only popular but also of archaeological importance.
Arguably the most popular & significant places
of worship are the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir situated at
Prabhadevi. This temple was first consecrated on Thursday 19th November
1801, a fact that is noted in government records. The temple then was a
small structure housing the black stone idol of Shree Siddhivinayak, which
was two and half feet wide. The outstanding feature of this deity is the
tilt of the trunk to the right side. The idol has four hands (Chaturbhuj),
which contains a lotus in upper right, a small axe in upper left, holy beads
in the lower right and a bowl full of Modaks (a delicacy which is a
perennial favorite with Shree Siddhivinayak). Flanking the deity on both
sides are Riddhi & Siddhi, goddesses signifying sanctity, fulfillment,
prosperity and riches. Etched on the forehead of the deity is an eye, which
resembles the third eye of Lord Shiva.
Siddhivinayak Temple is one amongst the most crowded and most revered temples of India. The establishment of this temple dates back to early nineteenth century. In 1801, Siddhivinayak Temple was built by Mr. Laxman Vithu in the company of Mrs. Deubai Patil. Located at Prabhadevi in Mumbai, Siddhi Vinayak Mandir is the most visited temples of Mumbai. Siddhi Vinayak Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is considered as the lord of beginnings.
Inside the temple, there a small hall (Mandapa)
along with the shrine and one can see the image of Siddhi Vinayaka here.
Siddhi Vinakaya is said to be the provider of good wishes. The main doors of
the shrine are made out of wood and various images of Ashtavinayak are
carved on it. These images represent eight manifestations of Lord Ganesha in
Maharashtra. In the sanctum, the ceiling is covered with gold sheet, making
the exact crown of the Lord.
Here, Ganpati is shown with four arms holding a lotus flower, an axe, plate
of modakas and a garland of beads, in each of his hands respectively. The
two consorts of the Lord, Riddhi and Siddhi, adorn the site being placed on
the either side of Ganesha. The temple complex also comprises image of Lord
Hanuman near the main entrance.
On Tuesdays, people come to this temple in large number as it is regarded as
the ruling day of Lord Ganesha. Devotees come here long before the opening
timings (before dawn) of the Temple, just to ensure that they will get the
glimpse of Lord Ganesha. It is believed that Lord Ganesha fulfills all the
desires and wishes of his true devotees.
In 1994, the temple was renovated to hold the huge crowd. During the festive
time of Ganesh Chaturthi, Siddhivinayak Temple is thronged by incalculable
number of people. Many television sets are installed for the knowledge of
those, who do not have much time to wait in the long queues that lead to the
main shrine.
Siddhivinayak Temple also makes a major landmark of Prabhdevi in Mumbai.
Outside the temple, there is a narrow lane that is known as 'Phool Gali'.
Here, one can see numerous stalls selling coconut, tulsi flower garlands and
an assortment of sweets. However, Ladoo or Modak (pear shaped yellow sweet)
finds the special attraction as it is the favorite sweet of Ganesha.
The temple is prominent amongst the Hindu followers and receives many
devotees every day. Keeping this fact in mind, the government of Maharashtra
has arranged a tight security in and outside the temple. During the days of
Angaraki and Sankashti Chaturthi, the temple is occupied from inch to inch.
Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings from the Lord.