Moreshwar Temple, Pune - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

At a distance of 17 Km from Jejuri and 65 Km from Pune, Sri Moreshwar Temple is a Hindu temple located at Moregaon in the Pune district of Maharashtra. Also known as Sri Mayureshwar Temple, the temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, god of wisdom. This temple is considered to be the first temple among the Ashtavinayak temples of Lord Ganesha in Maharashtra. The other Ashtavinayaka Temples in Maharashtra being Maha Ganapati Temple in Ranjangaon, Siddhivinayak in Siddhatek, Ballaleshwar in Pali, Varadavinayak in Mahad, Chintamani in Theur, Girijatmaj in Lenyadri, and Vighneshwar in Ozar. This temple is regarded as one of the most sacred places to visit as part of the Pune family packages.

The Morgaon temple serves as the starting point for the pilgrimage to eight sacred Ganesha temples located around Pune, collectively known as the Ashtavinayak Temples. The pilgrimage is deemed incomplete if visitors do not conclude their journey at the Morgaon temple.

History of Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

The precise date of the temple's establishment remains uncertain; however, it is closely linked to the Ganapatya saint Moraya Gosavi. Initially, Morya Gosavi worshipped at the Morgaon Ganesha temple before relocating to Chinchwad, where he founded a new Ganesha temple. The Moregaon Ganapati Temple stands as the primary center of worship for the Ganapatya sect, which regards Ganesha as the Supreme Being. During the 18th century, the Morgaon temple, along with other Ganapatya sites near Pune, received significant support from the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire, who revered Ganesha as their family deity. Presently, the temple is managed by the Chinchwad Devasthan Trust, which is based in Chinchwad.

Mythology of Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

A legend is linked to the temple, stating that Bhagwan Ganesha was born to Parvati during the Treta Yuga in the caves of Lenyadri. In this tale, Bhagwan manifested as a fair Mayureshwar, possessing six arms and riding a peacock. The young Ganesha had a penchant for climbing trees, and one day, he inadvertently knocked an egg from which a peacock hatched. This is why the idol of Ganesha is depicted riding a peacock, earning him the name 'Mayureshwar.' It is believed that Lord Ganesha took on the form of Mayureshwar with the purpose of vanquishing the demon Sindhu. After successfully defeating the demon, Lord Ganesha gifted his vehicle, the peacock, to his brother, Lord Kartikeya.

Architecture of Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

The Mayureshwar Ganpati Temple features a distinctive architectural design. It is encircled by a high stone boundary wall. The temple boasts four entrance gates, each oriented towards a cardinal direction, adorned with sculptures of Lord Ganesha, representing his appearances in the four Yugas. The main entrance, facing north, includes a patio with two lamp towers.

In front of the temple stands a six-foot tall sculpture of a mouse. Notably, there is a large Nandi positioned before the Ganesha Temple, which is atypical since Nandi is usually found in front of the sanctum of Shiva temples. A newly constructed assembly hall, or sabha-mandapa, features idols of Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi, along with 23 representations of Lord Ganesha, each illustrating different forms of the deity.

The sanctum sanctorum contains the idol of Ganesha, known as Mayureshwar or Moreshwar, facing north. Just like all Ashtavinayaka shrines, the Ganesha image is regarded as swayambhu, naturally formed from an elephant-faced stone. Crafted from a five-metal alloy, the idol is depicted seated, with its trunk turned to the left, four arms, and three eyes. The assembly hall also houses 23 idols of Lord Ganesha, each showcasing various forms. The central image appears smaller than its actual size due to a thick layer of saffron-colored vermillion, which is removed every century; the last occurrence was in 1882, with the previous one in 1788. Ganesha is accompanied by idols of his consorts, Siddhi and Buddhi, while his vahanas, the mouse and the peacock, are placed in front of the main image. To the left of the garbhagriha is an image of Nagna-Bhairava.

Festivals of Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

Ganesh Chaturthi is the major festival celebrated at Moreshwar Temple. Occurring in August or September, this event marks the birth of Lord Ganesha. The festivities for Ganesha Chaturthi extend for over a month, concluding with Ashvin Shukla. Another significant event is Ganesh Jayanti, which takes place during the Hindu month of Magha (January/February) and represents the rebirth of Lord Ganesha. During both celebrations, a procession of devotees arrives from the Mangalmurti Temple in Chinchwad, carrying the palkhi of Ganesha. Additionally, Vijayadashami is celebrated with considerable fervor at the temple.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

Moreshwar Ganpati Temple does not impose a strict dress code; nonetheless, it is recommended to wear modest clothing that covers the upper arms and legs as a sign of respect. Men are advised to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with a suitable upper garment, or to opt for formal trousers and shirts. Women may select attire such as a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is best to refrain from wearing modern clothing items like mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops when visiting the temple.

Although Moreshwar Ganpati Temple is a Hindu place of worship, non-Hindus are typically welcome to visit and observe the temple's activities. However, access to the inner sanctum for certain rituals may be restricted for them.

Moreshwar Ganapati Temple Timings

Monday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Tuesday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Wednesday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Thursday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Friday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Saturday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Sunday: 5 AM - 10 PM

Moreshwar Ganapati Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

The optimal time to visit the Mayureshwar Ganpati Temple in Morgaon is from October to February, as the climate during this period is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temple. Those wishing to partake in the celebrations should plan their visit during Ganesh Chaturthi, when the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and various religious activities take place. However, it is important for visitors to be aware that this is the peak season, resulting in larger crowds. For a more serene experience, the monsoon months of July to September are recommended, as they provide a lush and vibrant environment. It is best to avoid visiting the temple during the summer months due to the extreme heat.

How to Reach Moreshwar Ganapati Temple

The closest airport to Moreshwar Temple in Moregaon is Pune Airport, located approximately 67 kilometers away. Travelers can conveniently access Moregaon from Pune using local transportation options or taxis. The nearest railway station to Moregaon is Jejuri Railway Station, situated about 17 kilometers from the temple. Visitors can take a train to Jejuri and then use a private vehicle to reach Mayureshwar Temple. Additionally, there are frequent bus services operating between Pune to Moregaon, and taxis are available for those seeking a more comfortable and adaptable travel experience.