Chintaman Ganesh

The Chintaharan Ganesh Temple is a sacred and much-loved shrine in Ujjain, built near the Shipra River, close to the Fatehabad railway line. The name Chintaharan means “the remover of worries,” and true to this, devotees believe that praying here helps relieve mental stress and life problems.

✨ A Self-Manifested Ganesh Idol (Swayambhu)

The idol of Lord Ganesh enshrined here is believed to be swayambhu, meaning it appeared on its own from the earth — not man-made. This gives the temple great spiritual significance. On either side of the deity sit Riddhi and Siddhi, the two divine consorts of Lord Ganesh, symbolizing prosperity and wisdom.

🛕 Ancient Roots and Sacred Texts

This temple is not just a place of worship — it’s also a part of history. It is mentioned in the ancient scripture ‘Prabandha Chintamani’, proving its historical and religious importance. Originally built during the Paramara dynasty, it was later reconstructed by the Marathas.

• The mandapa (hall) and garbhagriha (sanctum) are topped with a beautiful granite shikhar (temple tower).
• A fortified boundary wall and a grand entrance gate protect the temple.
• Artistically carved sandstone pillars in the prayer hall reflect the rich craftsmanship of the Parmara era.
• A pradakshina patha (circumambulation path) surrounds the sanctum, where devotees walk in devotion.

💧 The Sacred Stepwell and a Story of Shri Ram

Within the temple premises lies an ancient stepwell (baodi), linked to a fascinating legend from the Ramayana. It is said that when Shri Ram was returning from Lanka after defeating Ravana, he passed through this area. Feeling thirsty, he asked his brother Lakshman to get water. Unable to find any, Lakshman pierced the earth with his arrow, and Ganga water sprang forth. This holy act made the site even more divine.

🙏 A Temple Full of Devotion

Every day, devotees from all over come to this temple seeking blessings. They believe that Lord Ganesh here truly removes their worries, stress, and life troubles. That’s why the temple is lovingly known as Chintaharan Ganesh.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Chintaharan Ganesh Temple

1. What is the significance of the Ganesh idol in Chintaharan Ganesh Temple?
   • The Ganesh idol in this temple is believed to be swayambhu, meaning it appeared naturally and was not man-made. This makes it an extremely sacred and revered idol for devotees.
2. What is the meaning of “Chintaharan Ganesh”?
   • Chintaharan Ganesh translates to “the remover of worries.” Devotees come here to seek freedom from worldly anxieties and mental stress through the blessings of Lord Ganesh.
3. Where is Chintaharan Ganesh Temple located?
   • The temple is located near the Shipra River on the Fatehabad railway line in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
4. Who are seated alongside Lord Ganesh in the temple?
   • The Riddhi and Siddhi, the two consorts of Lord Ganesh, are seated on either side of the idol. Riddhi represents prosperity, while Siddhi represents wisdom.
5. What is the historical significance of the temple?
   • The temple has ancient roots, mentioned in the treatise ‘Prabandha Chintamani’. It was originally constructed during the Paramara period and later reconstructed during the Maratha era.
6. What is the story behind the stepwell (baodi) at the temple?
   • The stepwell is linked to a legend where Shri Ram and Lakshman were thirsty after returning from Lanka. Lakshman pierced the earth with an arrow, and Ganga water miraculously emerged, making the site sacred.
7. What are the architectural features of the temple?
   • The temple features a granite shikhar, an artistically carved sandstone-pillared prayer hall, a fortified boundary wall, and a pradakshina patha for devotees to walk around the sanctum.
8. When is the best time to visit Chintaharan Ganesh Temple?
   • The temple is open throughout the year, but it is especially serene and pleasant after the rainy season, making it a great time for a visit.
9. Can I offer prayers or perform a ritual at the temple?
   • Yes, devotees can offer prayers, perform aarti, and seek blessings from Lord Ganesh at the temple. It’s a place of peace, devotion, and spiritual relief.

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