The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, is one of India's most revered and iconic Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. With a history spanning over two centuries, it stands as a symbol of faith, cultural heritage, and social welfare in Maharashtra.

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Historical Background

• The temple was originally constructed on 19 November 1801 by Laxman Vithu, with financial support from Deubai Patil, a wealthy, childless woman who hoped her devotion would help other women seeking children.
• The original structure was a modest brick building, housing a unique black stone idol of Ganesha with a right-tilted trunk and four arms, flanked by goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi-symbols of prosperity and fulfillment.
• Over time, the temple's fame grew, attracting devotees from all walks of life, including celebrities and politicians, making it a top spiritual and tourist destination in Mumbai

Architectural Features

• The temple's sanctum is adorned with a gold-plated inner roof and intricately carved wooden doors depicting the Ashtavinayak-the eight forms of Ganesha worshipped in Maharashtra.
• The idol of Siddhivinayak is distinctive for its three eyes, reminiscent of Lord Shiva, and is seated in a lotus posture (Padmasana) on a throne, with the mouse (Mooshak) as his vehicle.
• The temple complex also houses a Hanuman shrine, discovered and added in 1952.
• A major renovation in 1990 transformed the temple into a five-storeyed structure with modern amenities, a spacious pavilion for devotees, and a gold-coated dome weighing 1,500 kg

Religious and Cultural Significance

• Siddhivinayak is regarded as the "Vighnaharta"-the remover of obstacles-and is traditionally worshipped at the start of new ventures.
• The temple is especially crowded on auspicious days like Tuesdays, Sankashti Chaturthi, and Angarika Chaturthi, when lakhs of devotees seek blessings.
• It plays a central role in Mumbai’s spiritual landscape, reflecting the city's rich traditions and serving as a hub for Ganesha worship for over 200 years.

Temple Management and Social Initiatives

• The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple Trust, established under a government act in 1980, manages the temple’s operations, finances, and social welfare activities.
• The Trust's income has seen significant growth, rising from Rs 114 crore to Rs 133 crore in 2024-25, with a target of Rs 154 crore for the next financial year.
• Notably, the Trust has launched schemes like the "Shri Siddhivinayak Bhagyalakshmi Yojana," providing a fixed deposit of Rs 10,000 to baby girls born in government hospitals on International Women’s Day.
• The temple emphasizes equality among devotees, explicitly rejecting VIP culture and ensuring fair access to all

Visitor Information

• Location: Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Timings: 5:30 am to 10:00 pm, every day
• Entry: Free
• Major Festival: Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated with grandeur
• Nearest Train Station: Dadar

Read Also: Sri Sri Radha Damodar Mandir: A Spiritual Jewel in Gurugram

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