When you hear the term ‘Mumbai,’ an imagination of heroes and stardom comes bustling into your mind. The financial capital of India has much more to offer and fulfill your aspirations of journey. In this travel blog, I would like to draw your attention to an enriched cultural temple and also introduce a pinch of other destinations.
With its stunning sunsets, memorable views, and warm atmosphere, Marine Drive in Mumbai extends a warm welcome to all who visit the bustling city that never sleeps. It sets the perfect tone for the enchanting ambiance you can expect. However, Mumbai offers more than just dreams, stardom, and aspirations of success. From the historic Gateway of India to the revered Haji Ali Dargah, the city has a long list to offer. But the temple that resides here is a place that will captivate your attention, and your journey will remain unsatisfied without taking a glimpse of this magnificent temple.
Now, in the name of Lord Ganesha, I started my most famous and beloved journey to Mumbai’s most famous Ganpati Temple.
The Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple can categorically be called an abode where you seek blessings for your future aspirations. It’s one of the spots that attracts a large number of pilgrims irrespective of their diverse cultures and backgrounds. While visiting them, you can also enjoy other aspects of Mumbai. However, the heart of Mumbai lies in this temple, and your travel journey to Mumbai will not be complete until you visit this place in person.
History of the temple:
The Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai has a rich history spanning over two centuries, dating back to 1801. Deubai Patil, a wealthy Agri woman who couldn’t have children, made a selfless prayer, asking Lord Ganpati to bless childless women who visited him. It appears that her sincere wish worked, as she funded the construction of Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Mandir, which was built by Mr. Laxman Vithu Patil and consecrated on November 19, 1801.
This iconic Mumbai landmark, initially measuring just 3.6 square meters with sturdy brick walls, a dome, and a Kalash, featured a grilled parapet wall. In the 19th century, an adjacent lake was
excavated to address water scarcity. In 1952, a small shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman was added after the discovery of an idol during road expansion.
In 1990, due to the growing reputation for granting blessings, Siddhivinayak underwent a significant renovation, resulting in the magnificent Siddhivinayak Mandir we know today, following a 3-crore rupee project.
The architecture of temple –
The temple has been rebuilt and now stands as a great manifestation of Hindu culture When Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple underwent renovation,
virtually everything was changed except for the deity’s idol. The original temple has been replaced by a distinctive six-story structure constructed from pink granite and marble. It features a central dome crowned by a gold-plated kalash and 37 smaller, gilded domes, along with three entrances leading into the complex. Inside, intricate carvings depict the eight manifestations of Lord Ganesh (Ashtavinayak) on the wooden doors, welcoming visitors to witness the idol of Siddhi Vinayak.
Preserved for over two centuries, the idol at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple is carved from a single
black stone, portraying Lord Ganesh in his chaturbhuj form, with four hands holding a japmala (garland of holy beads), a lotus, and axe, and a plate of his beloved modaks. An intriguing detail is the tilt of Lord Ganesh’s trunk, which leans to the right, a departure from the usual leftward tilt seen in most Ganpati idols. Additionally, Lord Ganesh’s consorts, Riddhi and Siddhi, flank the idol.
Significance
The Siddhi Vinayak Temple holds great significance. It features a unique Ganesha idol known for blessing new beginnings. The idol’s trunk is tilted to the right, which is associated with the consorts of Siddhi and thus gives the temple its name, Siddhi Vinayak. An interesting tradition at this temple is whispering wishes into the ears of the numerous rats believed to increase the chances of wish fulfillment to 100%.
The right tilt of Lord Ganesha’s trunk symbolizes acceptance of Moksha, and even a glimpse of it is believed to free one from worldly pleasures. Local legends also suggest that sincere prayers can fulfill wishes, while insincere ones may bring personal troubles. These facts are astonishing, and with prior knowledge, visiting the temple becomes a truly admired experience.
The Siddhi Vinayak Temple is one of the greatest in Mumbai, welcoming pilgrims from across the country. The presence of different deities in the temple adds to its enigmatic aura.
Mumbai is a vibrant city with bustling crowds day and night. There are places that require your attention and can calm your mind, immersing your soul in a different universe, even if only in imagination. While there are many exciting sites in Mumbai, I will focus on places other than temples in this response.
only in imagination. While there are many exciting sites in Mumbai, I will focus on places other than temples in this response.
One must not miss the chance to visit the Gateway of India, an architectural marvel situated on the southern shores of Mumbai by the Arabian Sea. It serves as a prominent landmark and starting point for tourists exploring Mumbai. The monumental structure carries a rich history and beautifully engraved designs, reminding us of colonial rule and our country’s sacrifices.
Another noteworthy landmark is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, showcasing Mumbai’s rich heritage. Exploring these places will truly immerse you in the cultural tapestry of this vibrant city.
Indeed, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a remarkable tourist attraction in its own right. Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands as one of the grandest train stations built by the British in the 19th century. It’s definitely a must-visit when you’re in Mumbai.
Another iconic spot you shouldn’t miss is Marine Drive. It’s a place where people come to reflect on their happy memories while the soothing breeze helps alleviate their sorrows. This place offers cafes, beaches, and even the Film City, providing a variety of experiences to enjoy during your journey.
How to reach?
Step 1: Travel to Mumbai
You have several options to reach Mumbai, depending on your starting location:
- By Air: If you’re traveling from another city or country, you can book a flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), which is the primary international airport serving Mumbai.
- By Train: If you’re traveling from within India, you can take a train to Mumbai. Mumbai is well connected to major cities across the country by rail. The main railway stations in Mumbai are Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) and Mumbai Central.
Step 2: Getting to Siddhivinayak Temple
Once you’ve arrived in Mumbai, you can get to the Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi using various modes of transportation:
- By Taxi: You can hire a taxi from the airport, railway station, or any part of Mumbai to reach Siddhivinayak Temple. Make sure to use a reliable taxi service or app-based cab service.
By Local Train
If you arrive at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) or Mumbai Central railway station, you can take a local train to Dadar station. Siddhivinayak Temple is within walking distance from Dadar station.
When it comes to accommodation in Mumbai, you have a wide range of options, from luxurious 5-star hotels to more budget-friendly choices. It’s essential to choose accommodations that align with your budget and preferences, and it’s a good practice to book them in advance to secure your stay.
Here are some special tips for your visit:
- Avoid bringing valuable items inside the temple to ensure their safety.
- Note that photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple, so respect this rule.
- Keep a close eye on your transactions to avoid any inconveniences.
- Take some time not only to experience the temple’s bliss but also to enjoy the surroundings and explore the local culture.
The Siddhi Vinayak Temple holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims and even attracts film stars and tourists. My unique journey to this temple, where I learned about the significance of the right tilt of Lord Ganesha’s trunk, adds a special meaning to my visit. It symbolizes that life isn’t always about material pursuits, and sometimes, fulfilling your aspirations may require letting go of worldly attachments.
The temple’s beauty and grandeur, as well as the love it showers upon its devotees, left me enchanted.
Whether you’re a tourist or a devotee, this place has the power to heal and bring divine bliss to your soul. It’s a destination that won’t disappoint and can add depth to your purposeful journey. Enjoy your visit and plan more travel with us!
