About the Temple
Chintamani Temple of Theur is devoted to Lord Ganesha. It is located 25 km from Pune. The temple is one of the Ashtavinayaka temples, the eight revered shrines of Lord Ganesha in Maharashtra. The idol of Lord Ganesha is self-manifested. The idol is studded with jewel eyes and the trunk is left folded. The idol is seen sitting in the cross-legged posture. The idol is smeared with Sindoor like other Ashtavinyaka images. The main gate is located to the North, however, the idol faces towards East. The temple has a wooden assembly hall and a black stoned water fountain which was built by Madhavrao. Besides the central shrine, there are other shrines in the temple complex which are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu-Lakshmi, and Lord Hanuman. The Peshwa Wada, also known as the Peshwa Palace stands behind the temple. Originally, it was the residence of Madhavrao, today daily activities of the temple are carried from this palace.
Temple Idol
Temple History
The temple is associated with the Ganapatya sage Morya Gosavi. The main temple is believed to have been built by Dharanidhar Maharaj Dev, family-lineage of Moraya Gosavi. Chintamani Temple was also a spiritual heaven for Peshwas, especially for Madhavrao I who renovated the temple structure. He used to visit this temple before any battle and after a battle to thank for the victory in battle. Madhavrao spent his last days in the temple premises. During his illness, Madhavrao tried to please Lord Ganesha by performing a perennial abhisheka of milk. He donated a large European bell, which is still present in the temple.
Temple Inner View
Temple Legend
Morya Gosavi would often visit Chintamani temple on every fourth lunar day after the full moon. As per the story, Morya observed fast for 42 days and performed penance at Theur. During this period, he had "divine revelations". Ganesha appeared to Morya and granted him spiritual powers.
As per the legend, it is believed that Lord Ganesha got back the precious Chintamani stone from Guna at this spot. However, after he gave the jewel to sage Kapila, the sage put it in Ganesha's neck. Thus the idol was named Chintamani Vinayak.
Festivals and Celebrations
The temple celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi festival. A fair is organized on this occasion. Maghotsav festival is celebrated to commemorate the birthday of Ganesha. It is known as Ganesha Jayanti, which falls on the fourth day of Magha month. Rama-Madhav Punyostav is celebrated on the eighth day of the Kartik month to observe the death anniversary of the temple's patron, Madhavrao and his wife Ramabai, who went as Sati on his funeral pyre and was burnt with him.
Temple Celebrations
How To Reach
By Road: Theur is y 25 km away from Pune. Several state-run buses, private vehicles operate from Pune and Mumbai to Theur.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Pune which is 25 km away from Theur.
By Air: The nearest airport is at Pune.
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