Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam - Pondicherry

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient and famous temple in Pondicherry, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple is about 500 years old and existed here even before the French rule. The main feature of the temple is that Lord Ganesha is worshiped here as "Bhuvaneshwar Ganapati", one of his 16 forms. The temple was named "Manakula Vinayagar" because earlier this place was surrounded by sand and pond. Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a major Hindu temple located in the city of Puducherry, India, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple is located near the Bay of Bengal in the White Town area of ​​Puducherry and is famous for its historical, cultural and religious significance. The history of Manakula Vinayagar Temple is about 500 years old. It is said that during the French rule in 1688, when the fort was being built in Puducherry, the French tried to destroy this temple. They threw the idol of Lord Ganesha into the sea, but each time the idol returned to its place. Seeing this miraculous event, the French officials left the temple and paid their respects to Lord Ganesha. According to another belief, about 300 years ago a saint took samadhi at this place, after which this place is considered auspicious for newborn babies. The temple is a wonderful example of traditional Dravidian style architecture. The temple complex is spread over about 7913 square feet and has many important features. This 18 feet high gold-coated flagpole is the main attraction of the temple. This chariot is made of teak wood and gold, in which about 7.5 kg of gold has been used. There are 59 different idols of Lord Ganesha installed in the temple, which represent his various forms. There are also idols of Lord Shiva, Parvati, Krishna, Murugan etc. Many major festivals are celebrated in the temple, which include 3 festivals. 1. Brahmotsavam in which this is the main annual festival of the temple, which is celebrated for 24 days in August-September. 2. Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganesh Chaturthi, special pujas and chariot processions are organized during these festivals. 3. Vijayadashami, on this day Lord Ganesha rides on a golden chariot and tours the city. Manakula Vinayagar Temple is not only important from a religious point of view, but it is also a symbol of the cultural heritage of Puducherry. Visiting here gives mental peace and positive energy.