Shree Siddhivinayak Temple

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The idol's trunk is positioned to the right, which is considered highly auspicious and more ritually demanding than the standard left-sided trunk.

2. 2

   The temple houses a Hanuman statue found during excavation work when the building was being expanded in 1952.

3. 3

   The crown of the main Ganesha idol is made of 10 kilograms of gold.

4. 4

   The temple was originally a small 3.6-meter square structure before multiple renovations expanded it to its present multi-storied form.

5. 5

   It is among the richest temples in India, receiving significant donations annually.

6. 6

   The temple trust runs a hospital and provides medical aid to the needy as part of its social mandate.

Overview

The Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is Mumbai’s most significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, featuring an iconic idol carved from a single piece of black stone. The deity is depicted with the trunk on the right side, a rare iconography in Ganesha temples. The current structure replaced a small original shrine built in 1801 by Deubai Patil and Vithu Patil. Its modern architectural design includes a central sanctum topped with a gold-plated spire known as the kalash. The temple complex is a major pilgrimage site that draws millions of visitors annually, including high-profile politicians, actors, and business figures. It is managed by a public trust that oversees daily rituals, including the traditional Abhishek ceremony. The inner sanctum door is plated with silver and carved with images of the Ashtavinayak, the eight manifestations of Ganesha.

Insider tips

• Use the 'Darshan' queues early in the morning or during mid-afternoon to avoid peak rush hours.

• Purchase your flower garlands and offerings from the designated temple-managed counters to avoid overcharging by street vendors.

• Keep your mobile phone and camera secured, as photography is strictly prohibited inside the main sanctum.