Introduction to Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon – A Sacred Ashtavinayak Shrine
Moreshwar Temple, located in Morgaon in the Pune district of Maharashtra, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha and holds the distinguished status of being the first and foremost temple in the sacred Ashtavinayak pilgrimage circuit. This temple is believed to be the adya peetha (original seat) of Lord Ganesha worship, making it the most significant among the eight Ashtavinayak temples.
Nestled along the banks of the Kara River, Morgaon was once home to a dense peacock forest, from which the temple and the town derive their names (‘Mor’ meaning peacock in Marathi). The idol of Lord Ganesha, known as Mayureshwar or Moreshwar, is depicted as seated with a cobra hood over his head, symbolizing divine protection. According to Hindu legends, Lord Ganesha assumed the form of Mayureshwar, riding a peacock, to vanquish the demon Sindhu, who had become a menace to the gods.
The temple, built in black stone, features a fort-like structure with four entrance gates, symbolizing the four directions, and is surrounded by a massive stone enclosure that gives it a unique architectural character. The temple’s spiritual aura and historical significance attract thousands of devotees every year, especially during the grand celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi and Maghi Chaturthi.
As the starting point of the Ashtavinayak Yatra, the Moreshwar Temple is an essential pilgrimage site for devotees seeking the blessings of Vighnaharta (the remover of obstacles) and is deeply embedded in the religious and cultural heritage of Maharashtra.