Myoksha Travels

Powered by The Temple Girl

Travel Guide to Famous Temples

[display_search_form]

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Timings, Poojas, and Entry Fee

, 6 Comments Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With:

Kanipakam Temple is one of the holy abodes of Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha) – the beloved son of Shiva and Parvati. It is present on the banks of river Baahuda, in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Ganesha is the controller of ‘Ganas’, the remover of obstacles, and the Lord of wisdom. It is usually visited when one is visiting Tirumala Balaji Temple.

Vinayaka Temple is also known as Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The word ‘Kanipakam’ originates from two Tamil words – ‘Kani’ meaning ‘wetland’ and ‘Pakam’ meaning ‘flow of water’. The idol of ‘Swayambhu’ Vinayaka is inside ‘Kalyani’, a lake in which the idol was originally found. ‘

It is believed that the main idol of this temple, Lord Vinayaka is self-manifested; hence it is also called with the name of Swayambhu Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The Kanipakam temple has Chola architecture, with a simple yet elegant Gopuram for the temple complex that houses temples of two other deities – Sri Manikanteshwara and Sri Varadaraja Swamy.

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Facts

Deity Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha)
Location Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple,Kanipakam, Irala Mandal, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, 517001, India
Darshan Timings 04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M.
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Brahmostavam, Deepotsava

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here are the timings of Kanipakam Temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan4 AM 11 AM
Evening Darshan12 PM9:30 PM

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple Entry Fee

PurposeFees
AksharabhyasamRs.116/-
Namakaranam: Rs.116/-
Balasara Rs.116/-
Anna Prasana Anna Prasana
Vahana Pooja Rs.50/- to Rs.150/-
Sashwatha KalyanotsavamRs.5116/-
Sashwatha Unjal Seva Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Abhishekam Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Ganapathi HomamRs.7500/-
Sashwatha NityarchanaRs.1516/-
Sashwatha Free Prasadam Rs.1516/-
temple-entry-fee
Kanipakam witnesses huge rush.

Daily Pooja / Sevas Timings of Kanipakam Temple:-

Name of the Seva Timings
Suprabatham & Bindu Teerthabishekam 4:00 AM to 5:05 AM
Palabhishekam 5.45 PM to 6.15 PM
Ganapathi Sahasra Namarchana6.00 AM


Panchamrutha Abhishekam 5.30 AM to 6.00 AM
9.00 AM to 10.00 AM
11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Homam 9.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Nitya Kalyanotshavam 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Modaka Pooja Before 12.00 PM
Phodasa Ganapathi Pooja Before 12.00 PM


Moola Mantraarchana Before 12.00 PM
Unjala Seva 6.30 PM to 7.30 PM
Pavalimpu Seva(EkanthaSev)9.30 PM to 10.00 PM
Nijaroopa Darshan 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM
7.00 AM to 7.30 AM
8.30 AM to 9.00 AM
10.30 AM to 11.00 AM
Athi Seeghra Darshan 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM
7.00 AM to 7.30 AM
8.30 AM to 9.00 AM
10.30 AM to 11.00 AM
4.30 PM to 5.00 PM
Poolangi Seva Thursday Only
daily-pooja
Daily pooja timings are- 04:00 A.M. – 09:30 P.M.

What are the legends of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

According to the legend behind Sri Vara Siddhi Vinayaka Temple:-

  • There were three brothers, each suffering with one deformity; one was dumb, another deaf and the third one was blind.
  • In spite of the difficulties, they worked on a small piece of land, cultivating it so as to earn their livings.
  • However, one day they when they were trying to get water from well using the Piccota system, they found out that the well had dried up.
  • Hence, one of the brothers started digging the well further. During that process, an iron hit a stone formation. This filled the well with blood.
  • Brothers were shocked with the sight of blood in the well, as they witnessed the sight; their physical disabilities got automatically cured.
  • When the villagers came to know about the miracle, they tried to further deepen the well.
  • In spite of constant trying they couldn’t do it as by then Lord Vinayaka’s idol had self-manifested itself, emerging out of the water of the well.
legends
Self-manifested Lord Vinayaka’s idol
  • It is also believed that the Lord Vinayaka idol at Kanipakam has been growing in size on a daily basis. At present devotees can see up to the abdomen and knees of the Lord Vinayaka.
  • Hence, it is seen that the Lord’s idol has outgrown the armor or Kavacham which was offered about 50 years ago by Smt. Lakshmamma.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

  • Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple’s history goes back to the 11th century. It is said the temple was built in the 11th century, during the reign of Cholas by the Chola King Kulothunga Chola.
  • Later, the original temple was renovated and expanded further during the Vijayanagara Dynasty in the 13th century.
  • It is built on the banks of River Bahuda, which also has a legend behind it. According to the legend, Sankha and Likhita, two brothers were going to Kanipakam to seek the blessing of the Lord.
  • However, during their journey, the younger brother Likhita, unable to bear his hunger plucked a mango from the mango grove and in spite of his elder brother’s advice ate the fruit.
  • Seeing this, the elder brother informed the King, asking for the rightful punishment to his brother for the sin he had committed.
  • Resultantly, Likhita lost both his hands owing to the punishment given to him. Later, when both the brothers resumed their pilgrimage and went ahead to take a dip in the water of the river near Kanipakam, the younger brother regained both his arms.
  • Since then, the river was named Bahuda, which means the human arm.

What is the significance of the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The significance of Kanipakam Temple is that Lord Ganesh is ‘Varasiddhi Vinayaka‘ here because he fulfills the ardent wishes of his devotees when they offer prayers with devotion and sincerity. Also, there are several occasions when a person voluntarily admitted to wrong-doing acts on entering the temple.

This sacred shrine of Kanipakam temple is widely believed to be an upholder of truth and justice. The aura of the Divine Almighty is such that or takes a dip in the holy water. It is as if the Lord evokes a sense of fearful guilty conscience in the mind of the person and makes him genuinely repent for the same.

To this day, the temple solves everyday quarrels between villagers by the two people taking a ‘Pramanam‘ – a special oath in which they take a dip in the Pushkarini and testify before the Lord.

Devotees who wish to give up bad habits like smoking or excessive drinking – take a bath in the holy place and take an oath in the Kanipakam temple by contributing Rs. 516/-. This is a Seva popular as ‘Pramanam’.

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kanipakam Temple are:

  • Brahmostavam: It takes place for a duration of twenty-one days. During the evenings, devotees take the ‘Utsava Moorthi’ into the town in different kinds of colorful Vaahanas (vehicles) on all days – Hamsa Vaahana (Swan), Mayura Vaahana (Peacock), Mooshika Vaahana (Mouse), Shesha Vaahana (Snake), Vrishabha Vaahana (Bull), Gaja Vaahana (Elephant), Pushpa Pallakki (Flowered palanquin), Vimanotsava (Airplane), to name a few.
festival-1
Brahmostavam takes place for a duration of twenty-one days.
  • Deepotsava: It is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani. It is another important festivity and the temple looks magnificent amidst hundreds of floating lamps, under the starry sky.
festival-2
Deepotsava is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani.

How to reach Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kanipakam Temple:

  • Air – One can avail direct flights to Tirupati from Hyderabad and Chennai only.
  • Rail – Mysore – Tirupati Fast Passenger operates daily, departs Bangalore at 8.15 PM and reaches Chittor at 2.30 AM.
  • Road – Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs daily buses between Bangalore and Chittoor.

Where to stay nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The Temple Management runs 6 guest rooms and Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams Trust runs the operations of 14 rooms for devotees. Another accommodation complex with 100 rooms is under construction. Besides the Temple accommodation, several private hotels and lodges also provide good quality accommodation to the devotees, in Chittoor city.

What are some temples nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the temples near Kanipakam Temple are:

  • Manikanteswara Temple: The ancient temple of Manikanteshwara exists since the times of the Chola King Kulothunga Chola. People believe that he built 108 temples of Shiva, to obtain relief from the sin of killing a Brahmin – “Brahma Hatya Papam’. Famous for the Chola architecture, the exquisite sculpture of the idol adds on another striking feature to the divine altar.
  • Varadaraja Swamy Temple: This Kshetram of Lord Ayyappa, also known as Harihara is a landmark in the surroundings, owing to the vast temple compound structure and the architectural marvel in the temple complex, that also houses two other deities – Sri Anjaneya Swamy and the Nava Grahas.
  • Ardhagiri Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy Kshetram – Present at a distance of 15 km from Kanipakam, this holy shrine dates back to Threta Yuga or the times when Lord Rama fought against Ravana the abductor of Sita. Devotees also believe that the Lord fulfills the wishes of those who pray overnight on a full moon night. Cultural programs take place throughout the night for the benefit of the devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M. is the timings of the temple.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The temple was constructed in the early 11th century CE by the Pandian King Maravarman Sundara Pandian and a Siva temple by Kulothunga Chola I.

If you have any questions about the Kanipakam Temple , please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Pandharpur Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 12 Comments Filed Under: Maharashtra Temples Tagged With:

Pandharpur Temple or the Vitthal Temple located in Pandharpur in the Solapur district of Maharashtra is one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India. Statistically, it receives the largest amount of devotees in Maharashtra. The holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Vitthal or Vithoba along with his consort Rakhumai or Rukmini, as popularly known, who is worshipped as a form of Lord Krishna.

Pandharpur Temple is one of the most important and oldest pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra. The Temple is located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River, another name of the River Bhima.

The legend of Lord Vitthal or Vithoba is disputed but historic and legendary. Lord Vitthal is the focal point of devotion especially among the followers of the Varkari philosophy or Sampradaya of Hinduism as well as the Haridasa sect of Karnataka. He is more popularly worshipped in regions of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

As per the Varkari tradition, “Vitthal” is composed of two words in Sanskrit – Vit meaning Brick and Thal that originated from the Sanskrit word “Sthala” meaning standing. That gives the meaning of “Standing on the brick” to the word “Vitthal”. Hence, God is depicted as a figure of a young boy standing on a brick. There are, however, other interpretations of the meaning as well.

The Varkari Saint Tukaram proposed that Vittha means ignorance and La means one who accepts, creating the word “Vitthala” meaning “God who accepts ignorant people”. Another possible meaning was put forward by historian Ramakrishna Gopal Bhandarkar stating that Vitthu is a Kannada version of Vishnu in Marathi. The suffixes La and Ba are added as a mark of respect creating the names as Vitthala or Vithoba.

The Pandharpur Temple is huge with six entrances. The eastern entrance is called the Namdev gate or the Mahadwaara. The Samadhi of Saint Namdev and Saint Chokoba is situated here. The famed “Namdev Chi Payari” step is the first step out of 12 steps that one must climb to reach the Samadhi. The Pandharpur Temple has a Mandap at the beginning consisting of a Nagarkhana where various musical instruments are placed.

Two Deepmalas can be seen in the west that is lit during festive occasions. The Chowk is lined on both sides with rooms for resident devotees. The Mandap also has shrines dedicated to Garuda and Hanuman. The chowk leads to the Solakhambi Mandap meaning a Mandap with sixteen pillars. The beautiful chamber is engraved with Krishna Lilas and the Avatars of Lord Vishnu. The entrance to the shrine is through a silver door named as the Rupyacha Darwaja.

The idol of the deity Vitthala or Vithoba is made of black stone three and a half feet tall. The idol has a Shivalinga on his head and the Kaustubha Mani around the neck. The idol is placed in front of a Prabhaval, a silver plate in the sanctum.

Several smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Ganapathi, Garuda, Lord Krishna’s consorts Rukmini, Sathyabama and Radha, Kashi Vishwanath, Lord Rama and Lakshman, Kalabhairav, Dattatreya, and Narsoba are present inside the Pandharpur Temple Complex.

Pandharpur Temple Timings

  • Pandharpur Temple opens at 4 AM and closes at 11 PM.
  • The Mukha Darshan (Darshan of the face) can be had at any time without waiting in the queue.
  • The Sparsh Darshan (Touching of the feet) can be had only by standing in a separate queue.

Dress code in Pandharpur Temple

Pandharpur Temple dress code is traditional wear. Men should wear dhoti, pyjama or formal pants and shirt. Women should wear a sari, churidar or a half saree. Children should wear any fully covered dress. There should be an upper cloth present for both men and women.

Pandharpur Temple History

  • The exact date or year of construction of the Pandharpur Temple is debatable but the earliest inscriptions on the oldest structures of the Temple belong to the era of the Yadava dynasty in the 12th and 13th century. However, the name Pandaranga which is another name for Vitthala can be found on a Rashtrakuta Copper plate inscription dated 516 AD postulating that worship of Vitthal started as early as the 6th century.
  • Several inscriptions can be found in the Pandharpur Temple as well as surrounding areas that imply the fact that the Temple existed in the 12th and the 13th century. An inscription in Alandi referring to Vitthal and Rakhumai can be found dating back to 1209. A stone slab dated 1237 AD states that the Hoysala king Someshwara donated a village for expenses incurred during Annadanam in the Temple premises. Besides these, several inscriptions related to Lord Krishna and the Yadava kingdom can be found in and around Temples that date back to 1249 AD and 1277 AD.
  • Krishnadevaraya, king of the Vijayanagara Empire safely took away the idol of Vitthal during the invasion of Muslim rulers. The Pandharpur Temple remained closed for worship for a few years. The idol was then restored by Bhanudas Maharaj in the 14th century and worship restarted.
  • Before independence, the untouchables, and other backward classes were not allowed to enter the Pandharpur Temple premises. Freedom fighter Sane Guruji went on Fast-unto-death to change this custom. He was supported by other Gandhians. Eventually as a result, of this movement, the gates of the Temple were opened for the untouchables and other castes.
  • The legends associated with Lord Vitthala in Pandharpur Temple have been mentioned in the Skanda Puranam, Sthala Puranam, Padma Puranam and the Panduranga Mahatmya. All these legends are centred on one individual named as Pundalik. There are several versions of legends associated with Pundalik and Lord Vitthala.
  • According to the first legend, Pundalik was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. He dedicated his life to the service of his parents. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Gopala Krishna visits him from Govardhan in his Digambar form. Pundalik requests Lord Krishna to remain beside the banks of the River Bhima making it a Tirtha Kshetra. The region described resembles the modern city of Pandharpur.
  • The second legend states that Pundalik was a greedy man who did not take care of his old and ailing parents. When he drove them out, they set out on a pilgrimage to Varanasi on foot with other groups of devotees. Pundalik also eventually decided to go to Varanasi and on his way, stopped for rest on the banks of River Bhima. He observed that three ugly women: Ganga, Yamuna and Godavari went to the house of a poor cobbler after taking the bath. On asking their credentials, they informed that they have to bear the sins of people and got cleansed when they visit the cobbler’s house who treated everyone especially his parents with love. Realization dawned on Pundalik and he immediately asked for forgiveness from his parents and started treating them well.
  • Meanwhile, Radha who loved Lord Krishna visited Dwarka, his kingdom and sat on his lap. Radha ignored Rukmini, Lord Krishna’s queen. Angered by the occurrence, Rukmini left Krishna and left to Dindivana near Pandharpur. Lord Krishna searched for her and eventually landed in Pandharpur where he came across Pundalik’s home. Lord Krishna was impressed with his devotion to the parents and called on Pundalik. But Pundalik asked him to wait as he was busy with his parents and threw a brick outside for the Lord to sit and wait. After finishing his work, Pundalik came out and on seeing Lord Krishna, asked for forgiveness. He asked him to settle here with Rukmini and bless them forever.
  • A small but an interesting legend associated with the Pandharpur temple is related to the naming of the first step of the temple as “Namdev Chi Payari”. Once a child named Namdev was asked by his mother to offer the Naivedyam to Lord Vitthal. Namdev went to the Temple and performed Naivedyam but waited to see God eat the offering. He keeps waiting and becomes disheartened when God does not appear. In his disappointment, he started banging his head on the feet of the Lord. Seeing his innocence and devotion, Lord Vitthal appears before him, eats the offering and blesses him. Namdev requests Lord Vitthal to name the first step of the Temple after him so that all the devotees will touch and pass through him to have the Lord’s darshan. Since then, the temple’s first step is named as “Namdev Chi Payari”. The child became a highly revered Saint in the future.
  • The Rukmini or the Rakhumai Temple has been built separately from Lord Vitthal’s shrine. There is a legend behind the separate shrines for both of them instead of one. Vitthal’s wife was fondly called Padubai and was mostly busy doing the household chores. One day, she was too tired and refused to serve a guest of her husband Vitthal named Maliraya. Vitthal became angry and cursed Padubai that she will become mad and be separated from him. Padubai eventually became mad and left him to the jungle where she died under a Tamarind tree. Her parents Janakoji and Kamalaja came to visit her after the death but were blocked by Vitthal who turned into a snake. He did not allow anyone near the corpse. He created a shower which washed Padubai’s remains into the sea. Maliraya felt guilty as he believed that he had caused this instance and took up penance. The Sea-god granted his wish and returned the bones which he immersed in a proper ritual at the Padmatirtha Lake. Meanwhile, Vitthal was unable to bear the separation from Padubai and wandered in search of her. Eventually, he reached Padmatirtha and found a beautiful Lotus on the bank. As soon as he plucked the flower, it turned into Padubai. However, Vitthal who by the time was free of all materialistic desires decided that both of them will take abode in Pandharpur but in separate shrines to bless their devotees.

Significance of Pandharpur Temple

  • The Pandharpur Temple receives the highest number of pilgrims in Maharashtra every year.
  • The Pandharpur Temple is considered extremely ancient and sacred. It is praised in several Puranas and the famed Saint Sri Adi Shankaracharya even wrote the Pandurangashtakam Stotram praising God Vitthal whose other name is Panduranga in the 8th century.
  • The deity Vitthala has been associated with several Gods in the past. He is worshiped as an avatar of Lord Shiva by strict Shaivites, as the supreme Lord Vishnu by Vaishnavites, as the supreme avatar of Lord Krishna by his sect, as the avatar of Buddha by Buddhists and as a Jain god by the followers of Jainism.
  • It is believed that Lord Vitthala and Rakhumai signify non-attachment to materialistic desires. They symbolize a life of duty, forgiveness and devotion.
  • The Dindi Yatra is a unique feature of the Temple. Thousands of Varkaris, people who worship Lord Vitthal religiously march from their homes in areas like Karnataka and Maharashtra to reach the Temple on foot. This Yatra is called the Dindi Yatra and takes place in June – July.
  • It is widely believed that a holy dip in the Chandrabhaga River washes away all your sins and blesses the devotees with prosperity.
  • In May 2014, the Pandharpur Temple became the first Temple in India to invite women and people from backward classes to assume the responsibilities of Priests.
  • The Kaustubha Mani that is hung around the neck of the deity’s idol is supposed to be one of the precious gems obtained during the mythical tale of the churning of the ocean episode in mythology.

Festivals celebrated at Pandharpur Temple

  • Ashadi Ekadasi or the Shayani Ekadasi – The grand religious procession is celebrated in the month of Ashadha (June – July). The festivities begin on the eleventh day of the month. It is believed that Lord Vishnu falls asleep on the day in the Ksheersagar while lying on the back of the Shesha Naga on this day. The Ksheersagar is the Ocean of Milk that denotes the Milky way that surrounds the directional space. It is also the place where Lord Vishnu reclines over the Shesha Naga and plans to churn the ocean to reveal its Amrit and other miracles. Hundreds of devotees from Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh walk from their homes to the Pandharpur Temple carrying a Palkhi with the “Padukas” or the “Feet” of the Lord. They do so amidst singing bhajans and songs in the praise of Lord. This journey is called the Dindi Yatra. During the Yatra, the devotees perform charity work for the poor and the needy like Annadanam, repair work, medical help, and building work.
  • Prabodhini Ekadasi – The Varkaris offer Poojas at the Pandharpur Vitthal Temple on the 11th day of the Kartik month (November – December), exactly four months after the Shayani Ekadasi. It is believed that Lord Vishnu wakes up from his slumber on this day in the Ksheersagar during the Samudra Manthan episode in mythology.
  • The Magha Ekadasi and the Chaithra Ekadasi are also celebrated by the Varkaris especially. They arrive at the Pandharpur Temple in large numbers during these days and receive the blessings of their beloved Lord.
  • Besides the Ekadasis, Holi, Deepavali, and Dussehra are also celebrated with great pomp and fare. The Pandharpur Temple is decorated and special Poojas are performed for the Lord on these days.

Pandharpur Temple Sevas

  • Kakad Aarti – The Aarti is performed for the Lord at 4:30 AM every day in the Pandharpur Temple. The Kakad Aarti is a form of morning Mangal Aarti which is performed to wake up the deity. Several chants and stotrams are recited to create a holy environment conducive to the waking up of the Lord.
  • Nitya Pooja – The regular Pooja begins with a ritualistic bathing of the Lord with Panchamrit which are Milk, Curd, Honey, Sugar, and Ghee. Then the Lord is decorated and dressed up in the regional attire for the morning darshan. This Pooja is performed between 5 AM to 6 AM.
  • Mahapuja – This Pooja can be performed by the devotees by paying the requisite amount. Several Poojas and shlokas are recited on behalf of the devotee. These rituals are performed between 7 AM to 8 AM.
  • Mahanaivedyam – The Lord is offered food of different varieties mainly consisting of rice, daal, and sweets. This takes place between 11 AM to 11:15 AM.
  • The Poshakh Pooja – The ornaments and the attire of the Lord are changed again for the evening darshan.
  • Dhoop Aarti – The evening Aarti takes place between 7 PM to 7:30 PM. The Lord is offered with Naivedyam afterward as dinner.
  • Shej Aarti – The Night Aarti or the Shej Aarti is performed at 10 PM in the Pandharpur Temple. The ornaments are removed from the deity and milk and sugar is offered. The Lord is allowed to sleep amidst the chants of the priests.

How to reach Pandharpur Temple

  • By Air – The nearest airport to Pandharpur Temple is the Lohegaon airport in Pune which is situated at a distance of 205 km from the city. One can board a bus or hire a taxi from Pune to reach Pandharpur.
  • By Train – The Pandharpur railway station connects various cities and towns in Maharashtra like Pune, Nagpur, Solapur, Latur, and Kopergaon. The Kurduvadi station located about 50 km from Pandharpur caters to devotees from several major cities in India like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Mysore, Pune, and Jaipur.
  • By Road – The Maharashtra State Transport Corporation operates regular buses from cities like Mumbai, Bijapur, Belgaum, Pune, Solapur and Khandala. Private buses also operate on the route.

Pandharpur Temple Accommodation

Pandharpur offers a wide range of hotels and ashrams for a stay to the devotees. The prices are reasonable. The MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) has constructed a few lodges that can be booked for a stay.

Where to eat

A large number of private restaurants are available that serve delicious local cuisine as well as North Indian and South Indian cuisine.

Nearby Temples

  • Takpitya Vithoba – The small shrine dedicated to Takpitya Vithoba. As per a legend, a woman who was an ardent devotee of Lord Vitthal used to offer buttermilk (tak) and ground lahi (parched Jowar, wheat or rice) daily at the Temple. If unable to reach the Temple, she offered it to Lord Vitthala at home. The Lord was impressed with her devotion and would sometimes come to her home to relish the offerings. The shrine dedicated to the Lord and the woman was built by a widow named Radhabai in 1540 CE. The stone bowl can still be visited that was used to offer food to the Lord himself.
  • Pundalik Temple – The small Temple is situated beside the Chandrabhaga river, just a few kilometers away from the Vitthal Rukmini Temple. This Temple marks the resting place of Pundalik who is credited with the arrival of Lord Vitthal to Pandharpur.
  • Kaikadi Maharaj Math – The Math is situated just 2 km away from the Temple. The complex depicts several mythological occurrences in Hinduism and their significance. The concept of the place is that all the Gods in Hinduism are placed under one roof and their significance explained to the devotees.
  • Vishnupad Temple – The Temple is situated 5 km away from the city. It is believed that one can visit Lord Krishna’s footprints and hoof prints of a cow on a stone slab near the banks of the river. As per the local beliefs, Lord Krishna comes for lunch here every day.
  • Mangalwedha – The land of Mangalwedha is called the “Land of Saints”. The city is the birthplace of several saints like Saint Damaji, Saint Kanhopatra, Saint Basaveshwara, and Saint Chokhamela.

Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 12 Comments Filed Under: Maharashtra Temples Tagged With:

Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the oldest sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Situated in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra, is one of the most popular and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The name Siddhivinayak means “Vinayak who grants one’s wishes.” The Lord is known locally as “Navasacha Ganapati” and “Navasala Pavanara Ganapati.” In Marathi, it means “Ganapati grants a wish whenever prayed with genuine devotion.”

Siddhivinayak Temple – Facts

DeityLord Siddhivinayak (Lord Ganesh)
LocationMumbai, Maharashtra
Entry FeeGeneral Darshan: Free; VIP Darshan: Rs. 100 /-
Best Time to VisitJune to December
Darshan TimingsTuesdays: 3:15 AM to 12:00 AM; Other days: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM
PoojasRudrabhisek, Laghurudrabhisek
FestivalsSankashti Chaturthi, Vinayaki Chaturthi, Ganesh Chaturthi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTbSvPgV2Ps
Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai, Video

What are the timings of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The temple timings vary depending on the day. However, the temple performs various rituals every day. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas.

  • For all days except Tuesdays: The temple opens at 5:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Kakad Aarti5:30 AM6:00 AM
Morning Shree Darshan6:00 AM12:15 PM
Naivedhya12:15 PM12:30 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan12:30 PM7:20 PM
Evening Aarti7:30 PM8:00 PM
Evening Shree Darshan8:00 PM9:50 PM
Shejaarti9:50 PM10:00 PM
  • On Tuesdays: The temple opens at 3:15 AM and closes at midnight after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Early Morning Shree Darshan3:15 AM4:45 AM
Kakad Aarti5:00 AM5:30 AM
Morning Shree Darshan5:30 AM12:15 PM
Naivedhya12:15 PM12:30 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan12:30 PM8:45 PM
Aarti9:30 PM10:00 PM
Shejaarti10:00 PM12:00 PM
  • On Sankashti Chaturthi: The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti) which takes place 90 minutes after Moonrise.
RitualFromTo
Early Morning Shree Darshan4:40 AM4:45 AM
Kakad Aarti5:00 AM5:30 AM

The Shree Darshan starts soon after the Kakad Aarti until 90 minutes before Moonrise.

  • On Vinayaki Chaturthi: The temple opens at 5:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Kakad Aarti5:30 AM6:00 AM
Morning Shree Darshan6:00 AM12:15 PM
Abhishekam, Naivedhya, & Pooja Aarti7:30 AM1:00 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan1:00 PM7:20 PM
Evening Aarti7:30 PM8:00 PM
Evening Shree Darshan8:00 PM9:50 PM
Shejaarti9:50 PM10:00 PM

Devotees are not permitted in the main temple from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM when the Mahabhishek is performed.

It is worth noting that Tuesdays tend to be more crowded than usual.

What are the poojas and sevas at Siddhivinayak Temple?

Siddhivinayak Temple Pooja
Several poojas and sevas take place daily at The Siddhivinayak Temple.
  1. Atharva Sheesha Havan: The Havan is performed by a team of priests on behalf of the devotee. The Havan is performed to receive the Lord’s blessings and removing any obstacles in his or her life. The Pooja begins with the Ganesh Pooja, followed by the Punyahavacham, Nandishraddha, Grahmukh and finally the invocation of the God of Fire (Agni). The Navagraha Pooja is performed followed by the offering of the Modakas to the Agni. Following the Pooja, the devotee honours the Brahmin priest for performing the Havan.
  2. Panchamrut Pooja: The idol of the deity is bathed with five holy items – Milk, Honey, Sugar, Ghee, and Curd. The ritual takes place among the chants of several hymns and shlokas.
  3. Ashtottar Nama Pooja: The Pooja involves the recital of 108 names of Lord Vinayaka among chants praising him and invoking his blessings.
  4. Shodashopachara Pooja: This is the first step of the ritual of any Pooja that is performed for any God. This Pooja involves 16 steps or parts. These are Upachara, Avahana, Asana, Padaprakshalana, Hastaprakshalana, Achamanam, Snanam, Vastram, Yagyopaveetam, Gandham, Pushpam, Dhupam, Deepam, Naivedyam, Tambulam, Neerajanam, and Mantrapushpam.
  5. Sahastravartan Pooja: In this special Pooja, a silver image of Lord Ganesha is worshipped. The Shodashopachara Pooja is first performed for the Lord followed by Abhishek with Milk. This Pooja is performed for family harmony, healthy and long life, financial happiness and forbearing an heir to a family.
  6. Sri Satya Vinayaka Pooja: This pooja is generally performed by people whose family deity is Lord Ganesha. The auspicious days to perform this Pooja are Tuesdays, Fridays, full moon days, Vaisakha Poornima and Ganesh Chaturthi. In the temple, the Shodashopachar Pooja is performed followed by Sahasra Namam Pooja. Naivedyam is offered to God after which Aarti is conducted. This Pooja is performed for the birth of a child, financial growth, wedding, and prosperous family life.

What is the significance of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The Siddhivinayak Shrine
The shrine of Shree Siddhivinayak.

The significance of the temple is that idol of the deity is carved out of a single black stone with the Lord’s trunk tilted towards the right. It is quite unusual for a Ganesha idol’s trunk to not be left-sided, making the temple very sacred.

The idol consists of four hands, Chaturbhuj, each adorned with the elephant god’s sacred items. While the upper right-hand holds a lotus flower, he wields an axe in his upper left arm, holy beads in the lower right and a bowl full of Modaks in the lower left. On his either sides are goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi, who bestow the devotees with prosperity and riches.

The Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi who represent sanctity, attainment, prosperity, and riches flank Lord Ganesh on both sides. On the Lord’s forehead, the third eye of Lord Shiva can be seen.

Shree Siddhivinayak is known as Navascha Ganapati in Marathi as it is said that he grants all the wishes of those who pray to him sincerely. It is also one of the wealthiest temples in the county and is visited by all kinds of people, ranging from celebrities to common man.

What is the history of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The history of the temple raises back in time about 200 years ago is prevalent to this date. Shree Akkalkot Swami Samarth’s adherent, Late Shree Ramakrishna Jambhekar Maharaj attained Siddhi. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha and the Gayatri Mantra. One day, he buried idols of the gods outside a disciple’s courtyard. He prophesied that a Mandar tree would grow in its place and the elephant god would reside in there. 21 years later, as the tree grew, so did people’s faith. 

A more popular story is that of an Agri woman, Shreemati Deubai Patil. Rendered childless due to infertility, she funded the construction of the temple with a prayer that the Lord bless women like her with children.

Established in 1801, the temple is more than 200 years old. What was originally a small place of worship, Shree Siddhivinayak was rebuilt into a majestic temple complex of 2550 square feet in 1993.

In 1952, a small Hanuman Temple was consecrated within the temple complex. The idol of Lord Hanuman was excavated during a road extension project.

The official website of The Siddhivinayak Temple is: http://www.siddhivinayak.org/

What is the structure of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The initial shrine was small and had a lake next to it. However, the lake was filled up and currently is not part of the temple complex. Currently, the temple is an imposing six-storied multi-angular structure.

The sanctum sanatorium (Gabhara) is right under a 12 feet high dome with the gold plated Kalash weighing 1500 kgs at its pinnacle.

The central dome is gold plated while the other domes are plated with Panchadhaatu (five metals- gold, silver, copper, brass, and bronze). The second floor houses the temple kitchen and the fourth houses a collection of more than 8000 books related to religion, philosophy, and science.

Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai also conducts social and cultural activities for the welfare of society. It operates a Dialysis Center, conducts blood and health camps and provides free eye checkups.

What is the dress code at Siddhivinayak Temple?

The Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai does not have a strict dress code but recommends decent clothes for men and women. Shorts and miniskirts are to be avoided. Beachwear and other revealing dresses are not allowed inside the premises.

Siddhivinayak Temple Festival
The Siddhivinayak Temple is decorated beautifully during Chaturthi and is visited by a large number of devotees.

What are the festivals celebrated at Siddhivinayak Temple?

Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most popular festivals of Maharashtra.
  • Ganesha Chaturthi: The biggest celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha is held in a grand manner at the Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai during August – September. The celebrations last for 10 days and the last day are named as “Ananta Chaturdashi”. In preparation for the festivities, a giant clay idol of the Lord is made 2-3 months in advance. The idol is then placed on a giant pedestal and decorated with garlands. The idol is installed at the temple in a ritual known as the Pranaprathishtha Pooja. Vedic hymns and Shlokas are chanted to appease the Lord. Offerings like coconut, jaggery and modaks are made to the Lord to receive his blessings. The temple receives lakhs of pilgrims during these ten days to catch a glimpse of the majestic deity. On the eleventh day, the idol is taken out in a grand procession amidst singing and dancing on devotional songs. The idol is then immersed in the sea, bidding adieu to the Lord who proceeds to his home in Kailash.
  • Sankashti Chaturthi: The auspicious dates fall on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha or the waning phase of the moon every month of the Hindu calendar. The day is extremely sacred to Ganesha devotees worldwide, who observe fast on these days. The importance of the day is mentioned in the Puranas like the Narasimha Purana and the Bhavishaya Purana. It is believed that Lord Krishna himself explained the importance of the Pooja to Yudhishthar of the Pandavas. On this day, the temple performs important Poojas to the Lord to remove obstacles in the devotee’s life and grant prosperity. Mahapuja is performed for the deity by reciting the Purush Sukt, Brahmanaspati Sukt, Atharva Sheersha, Ganapati Sukt and the Saraswati Sukt.
  • Hanuman Jayanti: The day marks the birth of Lord Hanuman. The festival is celebrated in the month of Chaithra in Maharashtra. On this day, special religious discourses and Poojas are held for the Lord which begin at dawn and end after sunrise. It is believed that the Lord was born at sunrise on this auspicious day.
  • Akshaya Tritiya: The auspicious day is celebrated in the month of May in the Temple. Special Poojas dedicated to the Lord are performed on the day. It is believed that the benefits of doing Jaap, Yagya, and Punya will never diminish but remain forever with the devotee. Along with Ugadi and Vijayadasami, Akshaya Tritiya is believed to be one of the days that are free from all ill-effects.

Besides these festivals, Gudi Parva, Ram Navami, Ganga Dussehra, Nag Panchami, Gokulashtami, Navaratri and Mahashivaratri are some of the other joyous occasions celebrated at the temple premises.

How to reach Siddhivinayak Temple?

  • By Air: The distance from the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport to the Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai is 15 km and takes about an hour depending on the traffic conditions. One can hire a taxi from the airport to Prabhadevi. Mumbai is the financial capital of India and is well connected to all major cities of the country via major airlines.
  • By Train: Dadar is the nearest railway station and is a ten-minute ride to the Temple complex from here. Local trains ply between Dadar and major railway stations like the CST Terminal, Churchgate and Santacruz. Mumbai CST Terminal is well connected to all major cities of the country.
  • By Road: The city of Mumbai is connected to all major nearby cities like Panaji, Pune, Thane, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Surat via wide national highways. The state transport operated government buses from all important towns and cities of Maharashtra. The private bus service also operates regular buses in and out of the city. The city also boasts of good local transport connectivity by buses and taxis.

Where to stay?

A large number of hotels, lodges and guesthouses are available for tourists. Since Mumbai is a coastal city, there are several options for staying in beachfront villas and hotels. The pricing of rooms is on a higher side in the city. The city boasts of several five-star hotels such as the Taj, Trident, and the Four Seasons. One can also book guesthouses like the one run by ISKCON.

Where to eat?

Mumbai is one of the best cosmopolitan cities to experience a wide range of delicacies. One can find an incomparable range of cuisines like Maharashtrian, Coastal, North-Indian, Mughlai and Muslim food, South-Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Thai and European.

The options to taste these delicacies range from excellent seven-star hotels to local cafes and dhabas that are dispersed through this huge city. The chaats are a must-have at the Juhu and the Chowpatty beach. Vada Pav and Pavbhaji are a must-try. The Khao Gully in Colaba is particularly famous for its Maharashtrian food.

What are some places to visit near Siddhivinayak Temple?

Explore Mumbai
The city of Mumbai has something to offer to everyone.
  • Mahalakshmi Temple: The famous Mahalakshmi Temple is located 6 km from Siddhivinayak Temple. The presiding deity is Goddess Mahalakshmi is a form of Goddess Shakti or Adi Parashakti. The Temple was built in 1785. The deity is represented by her three forms – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati. The Temple is famous for its yearly grand celebrations of the festival Navaratri.
  • Mumba Devi Mandir: The deity of the famous temple is Maha Amba, known as Mumba in Marathi. The Goddess is the patron deity of the Fishermen of Mumbai, the original inhabitants of the city. The city of Mumbai is named after the Goddess. The original temple dated back to the 15th century. However, it was destroyed and the new structure was built in the 18th century.
  • Sri Radha Rasabihari Ji Temple, ISKCON: The temple complex is located near the Juhu beach. The presiding deities of the temple are Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Radha Rasabihari and Sri Sita – Ram, Lakshman and Hanuman. The temple is an architectural landmark and is visited by thousands of devotees and tourists every day.
  • Swaminarayan Temple: The temple dedicated to Sri Swaminarayan is situated in the Bhuleshwar area of Mumbai. The Temple is nearly 100 years old. The Temple follows the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. The tri-spire structure houses the deities Hari Krishna, Gaulokvihari and Radha, Laxminarayan Dev and Ghanshyam Maharaj.
  • Jogeshwari caves: The cave temples of Jogeshwari in Mumbai are some of the earliest cave shrines dedicated to both Hinduism and Buddhism. They date back to 550 AD. The cave complex is used as a temple by the locals who worship the ancient idols of Lord Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesha and Lord Dattatreya. It is believed that the cave also enshrines the footprints of Goddess Jogeshwari who is worshipped by many as Kuladevi.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siddhivinayak Temple

Is the Siddhivinayak Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Siddhivinayak Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Siddhivinayak Temple is free of cost. However, if you want to avoid the long queues, you can access VIP Darshan by paying Rs. 100/- per person.

Is there any Online Darshan facility available?

Yes, please visit the website http://www.siddhivinayak.org/ for Online Darshan.

Can one carry mobiles and gadgets into the temple?

Yes. All electronic gadgets are strictly allowed (viz. mobile, camera, laptop). However, photography inside the temple is prohibited.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

Wheelchair facilities for disabled and senior citizens are available at the gate of the temple. Lift facilities are also present inside the temple.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers at Mumbai start from February and continues until May. The summers here can be hot and humid. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 32 º C.

What are winters like in Mumbai?

In Mumbai, winters start in November and continue until January. The temperatures during this time range from around 18 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is warm and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Siddhivinayak Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 9 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With:

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are two main Shrines in this temple. Lord Shiva facing East and Devi facing West. The main shrine is a conical copper plated one. Devi’s main Idol is made with an alloy of five metals.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is a ‘Maha Kshetram’ (temple having great importance) from olden days itself. The other sub-investitures of the temple are Ganapathi, Shasta (Lord Ayyappan), Chandikeswaran, Neelagrivan, Ganga, and Naagar. There is also a shrine of Sree Krishna nearby. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is also referred to as Chengannur Bhagavati Temple, as the temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas dedicated to Goddess Parvathi.

Chengannur is also known as the Gateway to Sabarimala Temple. The temple was built according to the architectural design developed by Perumthachan. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple complex sprawls over an area of six acres, with a circular sanctum. The Shivalingam is said to have emerged on its own (Swayambu) and bears a gold planted image of Ardhanaareeswara. There are also shrines dedicated to other deities as well.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

History and Legend of Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

  • Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Saints, Devas, Gandharvas, Yakshas and all other heavenly ones went to Himalaya in order to attend the auspicious marriage of Shiva & Parvati. The Trimurthis requested sage Agastya to go and sit on shronadri, to prevent the Earth from sinking to the northern side due to the weight of all the invitees who came for the ceremony. Though Sage Agasthya conceded the request he expressed his concern about losing the chance of viewing the marriage.
  • After the marriage, Lord Shiva and Devi went to meet Agasthya muni at shronadri. There Devi became ‘rithu’ (menstruate) and she could not go back. Devi remained there till the period of menstruation was over. The place where sage Agastya meditated, is known as shronadri in Sanskrit and in Malayalam, it is Chenkunnu (Red hill). Later it is called as Chen Kunnu Urru (Ooru refers to a place) and hence the place is known as Chengannur.
  • According to another legend Lord Vishnu severed the body of Sati (Goddess Parvati) into pieces which scattered over different places. These places are called Shakti Peethas. Accordingly, it is believed that the reproductive organ of Goddess Sati’s body fell at the place where the temple is located. The Kamakhya Temple in Assam is also related to the same legend.
  • There is an interesting story related to a custom of oath at the western entrance of the temple. There was a Brahmin family who were great devotees of Chengannur Devi and who were very famous. Once an Alwar came to Chengannur to challenge the Muringoor family at a time when a boy of twelve years. He was the only male in the Muringoor family.
  • He prayed to the Goddess and moved by the prayer the goddess appeared to the boy in a dream. Goddess instructed the boy to make use of the brass pipe in the ‘Araa’ which had a snake in it and which will be under the control of the boy. The next day the boy challenged his opponent to release the snake with his magical powers.
  • The Alwar’s efforts failed and the snake, in turn, tried to bite the intruder. On the pleading of the Alwar, the boy controlled the snake with his prayers and sealed it into the pipe. He then made a hole in the wall of the Western Gopuram and put the snake into it. He informed the people around that if anybody utters a lie by putting his hand inside the hole will be bitten by the snake.
  • This is the place where Yuddhishtra offered prayers to Vishnu, seeking pardon for his actions on the battlefield. He uttered the words `Ashwattaama hatahkunjaraha` in an attempt to deceive Drona and lead him into a defenceless state and his life was brought to an end by Arjuna.
  • Kannaki was the incarnation of Devi Sati. After killing the king of Madurai Pandya raja she went to Chengannur at the top of a hill. While Devi was meditating her husband Kovalan appeared before her and they together went to Heaven. The people who were living in the valley and constructed a temple there with the financial assistance of their king Cheran Senkuttuvan.

Significance of Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

  • The most important and unique feature of the temple is the Thriputharattu which is marked as a symbol of fertility. It is believed that the temple is also associated with the great epic Mahabharata. Chengannur has been derived from the word ‘Tiruchenkunroor.’
  • Balithara is an altar is used for making ritualistic offering to demi-gods and the festive deities. The central shrine called Sreekovil houses the image of the presiding deity. It is on an elevated platform with a single door reached through a flight of five steps.
  • Either side of the doors have images of guardian deities called Dwarapalakas. The roof of the temple and some of the pillars have lavish wood and stucco carvings depicting various stories of ancient epics, Ramayana and Mahabharatha.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple Timings

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple opens daily at 3:50 AM. Worship timings are from 04:30 AM to 11:30 AM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening. The temple timings are subjected to change during festivals and special events.

Festivals celebrated at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

Varshikotsavam: The annual temple festival is observed for 28 days starting from Thiruvathira Nakshatram in Dhanu Masam to Thiruvathira Nakshatra in Makaram month. Special pujas are held on all days. The shrine is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. Traditional performing arts, music and dance are staged during the period. The utsava murti of the deity is taken out of the shrine for ritual bathing on the final day. Hundreds of people arrive on the day to witness various rituals and festivities.

Thripputhu: Thripputhu is one of the main festivals celebrated in the temple. The festival is associated with the menstruation ceremony and is observed periodically in the temple. During this time the temple is kept closed for three days and worships will be offered to another image of the goddess in a different spot of the temple. On the fourth day, the idol of the Devi is taken to a nearby river on the fourth day and Arattu (holy bath) is conducted. This ceremony is called Thripputhu. Later the Devi rides an elephant and is taken back to the temple. During the festival, the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are taken in procession around the temple three times. Then the Lord enters the shrine through the eastern side and the goddess enters through the western side.

Thulasamkrama Neyyattu: This is the Ghee Abhishekam festival of the Chengannur Temple. This ceremony is conducted on every 1st day of Thulam (mid-October to mid-November). On this day 36 paras of ghee is showered on the ‘Shivalingam’. ‘Paras’ is a measurement in Malayalam.

Shivaratri: Maha Shivaratri is the night of the worship of Lord Shiva. It occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the dark half of the month of Phalguna. It falls on a moonless February night when Hindus offer special prayer to the lord of destruction. Shivaratri is considered especially auspicious for women. Married women pray for the well being of their husbands and sons, while unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Shiva. Devotees visit the temple in large numbers during Shivaratri.

Poojas and Rituals at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

At 3:50 AM the first pooja that is conducted is the Ravile Palli Unarthal. It is nothing but the awakening of the presiding deity. It is followed by the Nadathurakkal which means the opening of the sanctum sanctorum to enable the devotees to venerate the holy portrait of the deity and to seek their blessings.

Shiva Abhishekam is usually performed to a Lingam representing his manifestation as a creator of good (by destroying evil). The first worship of the day is Usha pooja or pooja at dawn. Though generally, the time of Usha pooja is thirty minutes after the sunrise.

Panthiradi Pooja is done only in major temples. This is done 2 hours after sunrise. It denotes the time of pooja based on human shadow measuring 12 feet in the morning. Here abhisheka is done with the pure water taken in nine pots after detailed pooja.

Deeparadhana is the worship with lamp with lamps, performed at dawn and dusk. Pyramidal lamps with seven tiers, lamps with five wicks and plain lamps with a single wick are lightened and waved several times in front of the Lord, from head to foot. Similar waving is then done with lighted camphor.It is considered to be an auspicious act to pray during deeparadhana time. This is the last pooja conducted in a temple on a day.  This is done between one and two hours after sunset.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery is the nearest airport to reach Chengannur. Trivandrum International Airport is about 119 km

By Road: Chengannur is situated between Thiruvalla and Pandalam in Main Central Road. Chengannur Bus Stand is a major KSTRC bus station in Alappuzha District. It is one kilometre from Chengannur Mahadeva Temple. Regular bus services are available from Aranmula, Thiruvalla (10 km), Pandalam, Pathanamthitta, and Trivandrum.

By Train: The nearby railway stations are Chengannur, which is about 2 km, Thiruvalla about 10 km and Changanassery about 18 km. Some of the major trains passing through the station include Kerala Express, Hyderabad Express, Kanyakumari Express, Chennai Mail, Amritha Express, and Malabar Express.

Where to stay

There are many hotels nearby which offer deluxe rooms. They are equipped with modern amenities to make the guests stay comfortable and enjoyable.

  • Spice Haven Annexe Contact: Vandanmedu Junction. Kumily Thekkady, Kerala
  • Hotel Santhi Palace Contact: M.C.Road, Railway Junction, Chengannur, Kerala
  • Hotel Raj International Contact: MC Road, Opp, KSRTC Bus Station, Main Central Rd, Chengannur, Kerala
  • Hotel Navaratna Contact: Main Central Road, Near Railway Station, Chengannur
  • Hotel Wyte Portico Contact: High School Jn, Karuvatta, Pathanamthitta, Adoor, Kerala 691523
  • Hotel Breeze Land Contact: By-pass Junction, Vazhappally, MC Road, Changanacherry, Kottayam, Kerala 686103

Where to eat

There are many restaurants that offer some great food. One should really visit Oven Fresh Family Restaurant, Bafia Bakers, Food Palace Restaurant, Crupe Cafe, Joyces baker to taste some mouth-watering and tasty food.

Nearby Temples

Aranmula Sreekrishna Temple: Aranmula Parthasarathy temple is an ancient temple situated in district Pathanamthitta district. Near to the cultural village of Aranmula. Temple is situated near the river Pamba. This temple is believed to be one among the five temples built by the Pandava brothers. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, is one of the most ancient and famous temples in Aranmula. The Aranmula Parthasarathi temple is a simple structure in Kerala style of architecture and the idol of Parthasarathy is six feet high. It is believed that in the war of Mahabharata Lord Krishna was Arjuna’s charioteer. This form of Lord Krishna was worshipped in the temple Aranmula. So the temple is named as Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple.

Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple: Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most famous Devi Temples in Kerala situated at Neerattupuram. The presiding deity of this temple is Durga Devi, who answers the call of her devotees. Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple is believed to be more than 3000 years old. There is an idol of Vana Durga with eight hands, installed near the original idol. Thousands of devotees visit the temple of every Fridays and during the annual Chakkulathukavu Pongala Festival in November – December the temple is visited by lakhs of devotees from all over the state.

Thiruvalla Sreevallabhaswami Temple: Sree Vallabha Temple is located at Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is a 400-year-old temple on the banks of the River Manimala. This ancient majestic temple devoted to Lord Mahavishnu is one among the 108 abodes of Lord Vishnu. There is a big pillar made out of a single piece of stone at the western side of the temple and an idol of Lord Garuda Bird is placed on its top. The building structure there is called as ‘Garuda Madathara’ and it has a Nepal style. There is Garuda Bird as sub deity in this temple. The deity of Sree Vallabha Swamy is facing east and in the same ‘Sudarshana Chakra'(Sudarshana Discus) is consecrated facing west and is known as ‘Chakrathazhvar’.There is an offering in this temple known as ‘Paala Namaskaram’ which will help to get blessings from Lord to fulfil the devotee’s wishes. The offering of ‘Kathakali’ to be performed in the temple is another special ritual here.

Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 11 Comments Filed Under: Delhi Temples Tagged With:

Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon is a major Hindu pilgrimage. Lots of pilgrims come here every day to offer prayer and seek blessings from the Goddess. This temple is located in Gurgaon, Haryana. Sheetala Devi is a Goddess which is being worshipped by people of different parts. People from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, North India, West Bengal worship her. She is better known as pox-goddess. She is also known as Goddess of ghouls, sores, pustules and various other diseases.

This temple is situated near a pond at Gurgaon village. Sheetala Devi Mandir is located in the suburb of Guru Dronacharya’s birth place in the state of Haryana. There is a large crowd of devotees throughout the year except during the month Shravana (July-August). During the month of Chaitra (March-April), this place looks like another Kumbh-Mela. There is a large crowd of pilgrims on Mondays of this month.

Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon History

  • There are many stories behind this Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon. One such story is that Goddess Durga has incarnated as little Katyayani. Katyayani was the daughter of the sage who all these demons who were destroying the earth with their evil and wicked power. Sheetala Devi in her real form as Goddess Durga killed the demons that were sent by Kaalkeya.
  • The demon of fever, Jwarasur, started spreading an incurable disease to all the childhood friends of Katyayani. He spread diseases like cholera, dysentery, measles, smallpox etc. It was Katyayani who cured some of her friends but to relieve the world from all sorts of fever and disease, she took the form of Goddess Sheetala.
  • Each of her four hand had something or the other to protect the world from fever and destroy the demon. Her hands held a short broom, winnowing fan, jar of cooling water and a cup. With her power, Sheetala Devi cured all the diseased children.
  • After all the children were cured, Katyayani asked her friend Batuk to go out and face the demon of fever, Jwarasur. The battle happened between the young Batuk and Jwarasur, resulting the death of young Batuk. Batuk, lying on the ground, started disappearing and magically faded into dust.
  • On seeing Batuk disappeared, Jwarasur became shocked and started wondering where he went. Little did Jwarasur know, Batuk assumed the form of an aweful male figure. This person had three eyes, four arms and a garland of skulls. He had axe, sword, Trishool and demon head. He was black in color. His eyes were blazing with fury, and his hair flowing. He was wearing tiger skin. Batuk took the ferocious form of Lord Shiva, Bhairav.
  • Bhairav informs the demon of fever that he is the servant of Goddess Durga. They had a long discussion which later converted into battle. During the battle, Jwarasur created many demons but Lord Shiva managed to kill everyone. At the end, Bhairav started wrestling with Jwarasur and end up killing him with his Trident.

Significance of Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon

  • Sheetala is a sanskrit term which means ‘one who cools’. This Goddess have the various name and is worshipped by these different names in the subcontinent.
  • Hindus, Buddhists and people from tribal communities worship Goddess Sheetala. Goddess Sheetala is often referred to as Maa by her devotees.
  • Goddess Sheetala has been clearly mentioned in Tantric and Puranic literature. Her appearence in the vernacular text has strengthened her status.
  • Goddess Sheetala is majorly famous in North India. In many places, she is often identified as one of the forms of Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva.
  • Shitala is known as the seasonal goddess and with honorific titles such as Thakurani, Jagrani, Karunamayi, Mangala, Bhagavati, Dayamayi. In South India, Goddess Sheetala’s role is taken by the Goddess Mariamman, who is worshipped by Dravidian-speaking people.

Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon Timings

Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon is open for darshan from 6 am to 8 pm.

The Puja of Sheetla Temple is conducted by both, Brahmins and low caste Pujaris. Goddess Sheetla is mainly worshipped in the dry seasons of winter and spring. There are many arti sangrah and stuties for the puja of Goddess Shitala. These arti sangrah and stuties include shri shitla mata chalisa, Shitala Maa ki Arti, Shri Shitala mata ashtak, etc.

Festivals celebrated in Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon

  • Sheetala Ashtami– this festival is very much popular among Hindu and is dedicated to Goddess Sheetala. This festival is also known as Basoda Puja. It is celebrated on the eighth day of the Krishna during the Hindu month of ‘Chaitra’. It corresponds to the month of mid-March to April in the Gregorian calendar. Sheetala Ashtami is celebrated Holi, generally after eight days. But in some communities, it is celebratedon the first Thursday or Monday that comes after Holi. Also in some districts, Sheetala Ashtami is observed on the ‘ashtami’ of the Krishna Paksha, every month, but of all these, the Chaitra Krishna Paksha Ashtami is considered most propitious.

The celebrations of Sheetala Ashtami are very famous in the north Indian states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. In the Indian state of Rajasthan, the Sheetala Ashtami festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. A huge fair is organized for this occasion and several musical events and programmes are also staged. Devotees celebrate this festival with immense joy and devotion. It is believed that by keeping the vrat on this chosen day, they will be prevented from several deadly diseases. On the day of Sheetala Ashtami according to the traditions, the families do not lit the fire for the purpose of cooking. They, therefore, prepare food a day in advance and consume the stale food on an actual day. It is only in Sheetala Ashtami that there is the unique custom of offering stale food to Goddess Sheetala.

Devotees get up early, before sunrise and take a bath. They visit the Sheetala Devi temple and worship the Goddess with ‘haldi’ and ‘bajra’. After performing the puja rituals they listen to the ‘Basoda Vrat Katha’. ‘Rabri’, ‘curd’ and other essential offerings are then made to Goddess Sheetala. People also take blessings from their elders. After offering the prepared food to the Goddess, rest of the food is eaten all day long as Prasad and is known as ‘Basoda’ in the local language. The food is also distributed among other devotees and also given to the poor and needy people. On this day reading ‘Sheetalashtak’ is also considered favourable.

How to Reach Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon : Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air: The nearest airport to Sheetala Mata Mandir Gurgaon is Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.
  • By Road: The state transport buses connect Gurgaon to neighboring cities within the state and in neighboring states.
  • By Rail: Nearest big Railway Stations are New Delhi Railway Station & Nizamudin Railway Station.

Where to stay in Gurgaon?

There are various places where one can live. There are various hotels and private organizations which provide dwelling places for the tourists. There are many hotels who provide proper hygiene, clean food, and wifi for they customers. These hotels are built keeping the needs and budget in mind. These hotels have a clean and hygienic environment. Tourists are treated very well by the hotel staffs as well.

These hotels and private organizations donot charge high keeping the budget and the needs of the customers. They provide a very pleasant environment and stay for the tourist. They provide clean and healthy home-made food for the tourist. Nowadays, all the hotels provide tourists with wifi facility so that they can enjoy their stay more and remain connected to the whole world.

Where to eat?

The Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon Temple provides food to its devotees. They are free of cost and all the expenses incurred are borne by the Trustees. Once the daily Puja is over, devotees are allowed to move for food. These food are made in a very hygienic condition maintaining the dignity of the Temple. The food includes three main courses and is given in plenty. All the expenses incurred are borne by the temple trust.

Apart from the prasad provided in the temple, one can also have food from hotels outside the campus. These hotels provide clean and hygienic food. There are various other places to eat food. There are many hotels and cafe which provide food keeping the taste and needs of the devotees. They cost very nominal keeping the needs and budget of the tourists.

Places to visit nearby

  • Sitaram Mandir– A partly-in-ruins temple in Gurgaon, Sitaram Mandir, as the name suggests is dedicated to Lord Ram and his consort, Sita. Located in Farrukhnagar area of the place, this temple is one of the places of worship for the Hindus. One of the most distinct aspects of the temple is its architectural style. The temple is a three-dome structure and resembles a mosque. Another unique fact is that though Sitaram Mandir is a temple that looks like a mosque, it also serves the function of a gurudwara. Farrukhnagar is near Savera Group of Institutions and can be reached by hiring a cab or an auto-rickshaw.

Contact Us