Explore Ozar Vighnahar Ganapati: Ashtavinayak’s Obstacle Remover

November 01, 2025 , , , , , ,

 

Location

  • Village: Ozar (also spelled Ojhar or Ojzar)
  • District: Pune, Maharashtra
  • Accessibility: Easily reachable from Nashik and Pune via road; part of the Ashtavinayak pilgrimage circuit

Deity and Subshrines

  • Main Deity: Lord Ganesha in the form of Vighnahar or Vigneshwara, meaning "Remover of Obstacles"
  • Subshrines within the temple complex include:
    • Shiva Lingam shrine
    • Devi (Goddess) shrine
    • Navagraha Mandapam (dedicated to the nine planetary deities)
    • Hanuman and Shani shrines
    • Smaller shrines for various forms of Ganesha and other deities

Temple Significance

  • Ashtavinayak Temple: Ozar is the seventh temple in the traditional Ashtavinayak pilgrimage route, which honors eight distinct forms of Lord Ganesha across Maharashtra
  • Historical Importance: The temple was renovated in the 18th century by Chimaji Appa, brother of Peshwa Bajirao I, after his victory over the Portuguese in Vasai. It symbolizes triumph and divine intervention
  • Architectural Style: Maratha-style architecture with a golden dome, ornate carvings, and a spacious courtyard
  • Spiritual Belief: Devotees believe that worshipping Vighnahar Ganapati here removes all obstacles and grants success in endeavors
  • Festivals Celebrated:
    • Ganesh Chaturthi
    • Ganesh Jayanti
    • Maghi Utsav and other local celebrations

History

  • The temple gained prominence during the 18th century when Chimaji Appa, brother of Peshwa Bajirao I, renovated it after his victorious campaign against the Portuguese in Vasai.
  • He offered gratitude to Lord Vighnahar Ganapati by enhancing the temple structure and installing a golden pinnacle atop the sanctum.
  • The temple has since been a major pilgrimage site, especially for devotees undertaking the Ashtavinayak Yatra.

Legends

  • According to the Mudgala Purana, the demon Vighnasura was sent by jealous gods to disrupt Ganesha worship.
  • Lord Ganesha defeated and subdued Vighnasura, who then became a devotee and requested that his name be associated with Ganesha.
  • Thus, Ganesha became known as Vighnahar or Vigneshwara, the remover of obstacles.
  • This legend is unique to the Ozar shrine and gives the deity its distinct identity among the Ashtavinayak temples.

Architecture

  • The temple features Maratha-style architecture with a spacious courtyard and fortified stone walls.
  • The sanctum (garbhagriha) houses a beautifully adorned idol of Lord Ganesha, facing east.
  • The shikhara (tower) is crowned with a golden kalasha (pinnacle), symbolizing prosperity and victory.
  • Intricate carvings, sculpted pillars, and ornamental arches enhance the temple’s aesthetic appeal.

Daily Rituals

  • Shodashopachara Puja: Traditional 16-step worship including abhishekam, alankaram, and naivedyam
  • Morning and Evening Aarti: Performed with devotional hymns and drumbeats
  • Offerings: Modaks, durva grass, and red flowers are commonly offered to the deity
  • Special Days: Tuesdays and Sankashti Chaturthi are considered highly auspicious for worship

Major Festivals Celebrated

Ganesh Chaturthi

  • Celebrated in Bhadrapada (August–September)
  • Includes elaborate decorations, special homams, and cultural programs
  • Devotees throng the temple for darshan and participate in processions

Ganesh Jayanti

  • Observed in Magha (January–February)
  • Marks the birth of Lord Ganesha
  • Rituals include abhishekam, modak offerings, and devotional music

Maghi Utsav

  • A local festival celebrated with processions and temple illumination
  • Includes special pujas and community participation

Beliefs and Spiritual Significance

  • Vighnahar Ganapati is worshipped as the remover of obstacles, especially before new ventures, exams, or travel
  • Devotees believe that prayers here ensure success, protection, and peace
  • The temple is part of the Ashtavinayak Yatra, and visiting all eight temples is said to fulfill deep spiritual desires
  • The legend of Vighnasura’s surrender reinforces the belief that even adversities can transform through divine grace

Getting Here

  • By Road:
    • From Pune: ~92 km via NH60 (approx. 2.5–3 hours)
    • From Nashik: ~145 km
    • From Mumbai: ~200 km via NH160
  • Nearest Town: Junnar (11 km away)
  • Public Transport: Regular buses and private taxis are available from Pune and Nashik
  • Railway Access: Nearest major station is Pune Junction; from there, take a bus or cab to Ozar
  • Air Travel: Pune International Airport is the closest, followed by Mumbai Airport for long-distance travelers

Temple Hours

  • Darshan Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Aarti Timings:
    • Morning Aarti: Around 7:00 AM
    • Evening Aarti: Around 8:00 PM
  • Dress Code: Traditional attire preferred, though not strictly enforced

Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: September to February (pleasant weather and festival season)
  • Avoid Peak Crowds: Weekends and festival days like Ganesh Chaturthi can be very crowded
  • Stay Options: Lodges and guesthouses available in Junnar and nearby areas; book early during festive periods
  • Local Attractions: Combine your visit with nearby sites like Shivneri Fort (birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj)
  • Ashtavinayak Yatra: If you're doing the full circuit, Ozar is typically the seventh stop
  • Offerings: Modaks, durva grass, and red flowers are traditional offerings to Lord Vighnahar
  • Accessibility: The temple is wheelchair-friendly and has clean restrooms and drinking water facilities

Post a Comment

No comments

Subscribe to: Post Comments ( Atom )