Ganapatipule Temple ( Maharashtra )

The Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, a centuries old temple, known for its unique Ganapati idol,  is built on sand (pule in the local lingo). It is believed to have originated by itself (swayambhu), and hasn’t been created by man.

image credit : 10 Year Itch

The idol of Ganapati here is made out of copper and depicts the God astride a lion. The God in this Swayambhu Ganpati Temple is considered to be the Paschim Dwardevta or God of the west coast. It is placed in the Sanctum Sanctorum and at sunrise and sunset a shaft of golden light penetrates and illuminates the idol. The people of the Konkan region are devout worshippers of Ganpati and the hordes of people who come to the temple on Angar ki Chaturvehi, an auspicious Tuesday every six months, has to be seen to be believed.

Ganesh Chaturthi is another occasion for the faithful to congregate on the Ganpatipule beach in their thousands. The festival also draws foreign tourists to the temple; they come to discover the landscape, art, culture and history of the region.

Swayambhu Ganapati Temple is known for its unique idol of Ganapati built on pule (white sand). It is swayambhu (self-originated) and not man made. The idol of Ganapati is made out of copper and depicts the God astride a lion. It is placed in the Sanctum Sanctorum and at sunrise and sunset, a shaft of golden light penetrates and illuminates the idol. Early in the morning, the rhythmic beat of the nagaras can be heard from the Temple.