The Siddhi
Vinayaka Temple is a Hindu temple
dedicated to Lord Shri Ganesh. It is located
in Prabhadevi, Mumbai,Maharashtra. It was originally
built by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil on November 19, 1801. Though
it is one of the richest temples in Mumbai, the current generation
of Patil is staying in state of despair near the temple.
Siddhi Vinayaka Temple has a small
mandap (hall) with the shrine for Siddhi Vinayak ("Ganesh who
grants your wish"). The wooden doors to the sanctum are carved with
images of the Ashtavinayak (the eight manifestations of
Ganesha in Maharashtra). The inner roof of the sanctum is plated
with gold, and the central statue is of Ganesha. In the periphery,
there is a Hanuman temple as well.
The Siddhi
Vinayaka Temple evolved from a small,
tiny place of worship to the Grand Temple that stands today in the
later half of the twentieth century. Temple glory was bought
not only by the politicians who frequented the temple but
also Bollywood film stars who continuously visit to seek
the blessings of Lord Ganesha.
Here, Ganpati is shown
with four arms holding a lotus flower, an axe, plate of modakas and
a garland of beads, in each of his hands respectively. The two
consorts of the Lord, Riddhi and Siddhi, adorn the site being
placed on the either side of Ganesha. The temple complex also
comprises image of Lord Hanuman near the main
entrance.
On Tuesdays, people come
to the Siddhi
Vinayaka Temple in large number as it
is regarded as the ruling day of Lord Ganesha. Devotees come here
long before the opening timings (before dawn) of the Temple, just
to ensure that they will get the glimpse of Lord Ganesha. It is
believed that Lord Ganesha fulfills all the desires and wishes of
his true devotees.