Ashtavinayak Temples near Pune: A Pilgrimage steeped in folklore
The Dhundi Vinayak Temple is situated behind the main temple. The idol in this temple is believed to be swayambhu. The musical Ganesha bhajan, "Sukhkarta Dukhharta Varta Vignachi" is chanted by hundreds of followers, isn't it?
He sent his Ankush which caught hold of vighnasura & brought him before Gods. But the Asura assumed many forms like cyclones , flood, fire, etc. Finally when he found that his power & tactics will not succeed , Vighnasura fell at the feet of Ganpati & asked for refuge . He requested that Ganpati should take his name along with his own. Vinayaka accepted his request & hence is called as Vighneshwara or Vighnaraj.
It is situated in Mahad village in Raigad, 146 km from Pune. The idol faces east and has his trunk turned to the left. The idol was found in ashtavinayak temples the lake adjoining the temple and hence, displays a weathered look.
The temples visited in descending order are Siddhatek, Pali, Mahad, Thevur, Lenyandri, Ozar, Ranjangaon. The pilgrimage is concluded with a second visit to Moregaon. The legend revolves around a special Gem called Chintamani. The sage Kapila had this Gem in his possession which has the capacity to grant one’s wishes.
The idol faces the east, is seated in a cross-legged position with a broad forehead, with its trunk pointing to the left. Ranjangaon Ganpati is one among the Ashtavinayak, celebrating eight instances of legends related to Ganesha. This Temple Ganpati Idol was inaugurated and donated by "Khollam" family one of the Gold Smith family in Ranjangaon.
It also has rubies embedded in its eyes, a diamond on the forehead and some jewel in the navel as well. Riddhi and Siddhi are shown seated on either side of the murti. He is said to have constructed it about a century or so before Senior Shrimant Madhavrao Peshwa built the outer hall.
The deity is said to be famous for quick response to the prayers. Temple And Deity The original temple was made of wood, which was renovated in 1760 and made of stone by Mr.Phadnavis . Girijatmaj Lenyadri