ganpathi temple pune

I thought it is going to be yet another visit to a temple. We planned and went to siddi vinayak temple in Saras bhag,Pune. Only after darshan did we realise that the place has an excellent collection of vinayak idols, tastefully exhibited as in a museum. Ganpathi museum does sound unusual.But it was a very unique experience and we thoroughly enjoyed viewing more than 1000 ganpatis in various forms.

We saw ganpati as a child playing around; we saw ganpathi holding a newspaper and reclining and enjoying the read; we saw ganpathi holding an umbrella and a kamandal as if going on a pilgrimage(kasi yatra?); we saw ganpathi having more than one head; we saw ganpathi in kalinga nardana pose ; we saw ganpathi who has his tusk turned right; we saw ganpathi carved in a tiny shell to a gigantic form in wood.Several idols were intricately made and kept adorning the entrance to the museum.Ganpatis were also made of every conceivable medium; cocoanut husk, sea weed,cocoanut shell,porcelein, terracota, wood of various kinds, glass, paper mache, engraved on rock, brass and bronze .

I went into a philosophical mode thinking how it is always a pleasure to look at ganpathi whatever way he is depicted. The tusk and the massive tummy are unique to him. Also his image as the smarter of the two siblings, who uses his brain rather than rushing to perform.Sporting a massive tummy obviously means he is indiscreet and indulges in food. Must be endearing him to all kiddos as being one of their kind.Having the tiny rat as his vaahanam again makes him a winner. I remember during ganesh chaturthi it is particularly fascinating for kids to shape the moonjooru from the clay brought for the occasion.

Ganpati chaturthi is also a fun affair for most where you are allowed to depict him in whatever form. He is truly a God you can relate to .

The maharashtrian fervour for Ganpati has truly bit me.