Nestled in the serene village of Morgaon, Pune District, the Mayureshwar Ganpati Temple stands as one of Maharashtra’s most revered Ashtavinayak shrines. Known as the starting and concluding point of the sacred Ashtavinayak Yatra, this temple attracts devotees seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha. Let’s explore its rich history, architectural marvels, and practical travel insights.
Key Highlights of Mayureshwar Ganpati Temple
- Location: Morgaon Village, Pune District (70 km from Pune).
- Significance: First and last stop of the Ashtavinayak Pilgrimage.
- Deity: Lord Ganesha as Mayureshwar—depicted riding a peacock.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with peak seasons during Ganesh Chaturthi and Magha Month.
History & Legends of Mayureshwar Temple
The Birth of Mayureshwar
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha incarnated as Mayureshwar in the Treta Yuga. Born to Goddess Parvati in the Lenyadri caves, he took the form of a six-armed deity astride a peacock. Legend states that young Ganesha accidentally knocked down a peacock egg, leading the bird to become his loyal mount. After defeating the demon Sindurasur, Ganesha gifted the peacock to his brother Kartikeya, symbolizing his triumph.
The Role of Moraya Gosavi
The temple gained prominence under Saint Moraya Gosavi, a devout follower of Lord Ganesha. His spiritual influence, combined with patronage from the Peshwa rulers, elevated the temple’s status. The Peshwas, who revered Ganesha as their family deity, contributed significantly to its restoration and grandeur.
Architectural Splendor
The Mayureshwar Temple showcases a blend of spiritual symbolism and Maratha architecture:
- Structure: Surrounded by stone walls, the temple features four gates representing the four Yugas (cosmic eras).
- Unique Features:
- A 6-foot-tall mouse sculpture (Ganesha’s vahana) at the entrance.
- Unusual presence of Nandi (Shiva’s bull) near the sanctum.
- Two ornate Deepstambhas (lamp towers) illuminating the courtyard.
- Sanctum: The idol of Mayureshwar faces east, adorned with gemstones and a cobra hood.
Significance in the Ashtavinayak Yatra
Devotees begin and conclude their Ashtavinayak Yatra here, circling eight Ganesha temples across Maharashtra. Completing the pilgrimage by returning to Morgaon symbolizes spiritual fulfillment.
Visitor Information: Timings, Poojas & Rituals
Temple Timings
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Daily Rituals:
- Shodashopachar Puja: 7:00 AM & 12:00 PM
- Samudaik Aarti: 7:30 PM
- Shej Aarti: 10:00 PM
Festivals & Events
- Ganesh Chaturthi (Bhadrapada Month): 10-day celebrations with grand processions.
- Magha Chaturthi: Marks Ganesha’s birth anniversary.
- Vijayadashami: Spiritual discourses and cultural events.
How to Reach Morgaon Ganpati Temple
- By Road: Well-connected via Pune-Morgaon-Baramati Highway (70 km from Pune). Buses and taxis available.
- By Rail: Nearest station—Jejuri (17 km away).
- By Air: Pune International Airport (75 km away).
Nearby Attractions
- Jejuri Khandoba Temple (20 km): Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary (45 km): Spot migratory flamingos.
- Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (30 km): Explore Maharashtra’s biodiversity.
Distance to Other Ashtavinayak Temples
| Temple | Distance from Morgaon |
|---|---|
| Siddhivinayak, Siddhtek | 60 km |
| Mahaganpati, Ranjangaon | 70 km |
| Girijatmaj, Lenyadri | 150 km |
Travel Tips
- Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially during festivals. Options range from budget lodges (₹500/night) to premium stays.
- Monsoon Visits: Carry rain gear; roads may get slippery.
- Pooja Bookings: Reserve rituals like Abhishekam early via temple authorities.
- Local Cuisine: Savor Maharashtrian dishes like Puran Poli and Sabudana Khichdi at nearby eateries.