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Ashtavinayak – Eight forms of Lord Ganesha
Ashtavinayaka refers to the eight temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, one of the most widely worshipped deities in the Hindu religion. These temples are located in the state of Maharashtra in India and are visited by millions of devotees every year.
The story of Ashtavinayaka goes back to ancient times when a demon named Tripurasura was causing havoc in the universe. Lord Shiva, the supreme god of the Hindu pantheon, decided to destroy the demon with the help of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha, being the god of wisdom and intellect, was able to outsmart the demon and eventually defeated him. As a result, Lord Ganesha became known as the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings.
The eight temples of Ashtavinayaka are said to have been established at the places where Lord Ganesha appeared or performed his miracles. The temples are located in the following places:
- Morgaon: This temple is located near Pune and is considered to be the most important temple of Ashtavinayaka. It is believed that Lord Ganesha appeared here in the form of Mayureshwar.
- Siddhivinayak: This temple is located in Siddhatek and is said to have been built by the Peshwa rulers. It is believed that Lord Ganesha appeared here in the form of Siddhivinayak, the god who grants wishes.
- Ballaleshwar: This temple is located in Pali and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Ballaleshwar. It is believed that a young boy named Ballal had a vision of Lord Ganesha here and the temple was built in his honor.
- Varadvinayak: This temple is located in Mahad and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Varadvinayak, the god who grants boons and blessings.
- Chintamani: This temple is located in Theur and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Chintamani, the god who removes worries and anxieties.
- Girijatmaj: This temple is located in Lenyadri and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Girijatmaj, the son of Goddess Parvati.
- Vighnahar: This temple is located in Ozar and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Vighnahar, the god who removes obstacles.
- Mahaganapati: This temple is located in Ranjangaon and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in the form of Mahaganapati, the god who is worshipped for his wisdom and intelligence.
The pilgrimage to these eight temples is considered to be highly auspicious for devotees of Lord Ganesha. It is believed that a visit to all the Ashtavinayaka temples can bring good fortune and remove all obstacles from one’s life.
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Lord Ganesha Stories | Indian Mythology Stories
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