The
foremost shrine is Moreshwar of Morgaon, about
64 kms from Pune. It was built in the 14th century by Morya Gosavi
who installed it at Chinchwad.
The Morgaon village, which is approximately forty miles away from
Pune, was named after peacocks found abundantly in the village.
This avtaar of Vinayaka figures amongst the most important ones.
The
Legend:
Legend about this temple has it that a demon called Sindhu was
terrorising people and the Gods appealed to the Vinayaka asking
Him to save them from the monster. Consequently, Ganapati rode
on a peacock to kill the demon and is, hence, called "Mayureshwar"
or one who rides the peacock.
It
is also believed that the idol within the temple is not the original
one. It is believed that "Brahma", had installed an
idol of precious metal, jewels and iron. However, the Pandavas
hid it and installed a copper one when they were here for their
pilgrimage. And this is the idol that is seen today.
The
Temple:
On entering the temple, one can see a large stone mouse facing
Ganapati. It has pillars in all the four corners. The temple,
facing north, is protected by a 50 feet fortress-like stone wall.
There is a garland of lamps on the designed floor in the courtyard.
The Lord's idol faces east and the trunk points towards the left.
The Ganapati here holds an elephant spear in one of its upper
hands while there is a bridle in the other.
His
lower hand rest on His knee while the other one holds a modak.
Diamonds are set in the eyes and navel of the God and a cobra
is coiled on His head. Brass statues of his wives- Riddhi Siddhi
and - are placed on either side.
|