Varadvinayak Temple: Located in Mahad village, Raigad district.; https://www.ashtavinayak.in/mahad-varadvinayak-ganpati-ashtavinayak.php

(a) general

(b) on special days like festivals and utsavas

Opening & Closing Timings

General Timings:

• •Opening Time: 5:30 AM
• •Closing Time: 9:00 PM

Special Days (Festivals and Utsavas):

• •On special days like Ganesh Chaturthi, Sankashti Chaturthi, and other significant festivals, the temple extends its hours to accommodate the influx of devotees.
• •Special Day Timings: The temple may open as early as 4:00 AM and close as late as 11:00 PM on these occasions.

. What privilege does it grant? For eg quick darshan, special gate, longer view of deity, prasad, puja etc.Are there any entry restrictions for Foreigners? Spl fees? Declaration to be made? Etc.

Entry Fees and Privileges

Entry Fees

• •General Entry: There is no entry fee for visiting the Varadvinayak Temple. Devotees can freely enter and offer their prayers.

Privileges

• •Quick Darshan/Special Gate: The temple does not specify any special privileges such as quick darshan or special gates in the available sources. However, larger temples often have arrangements for managing large crowds, especially during festivals.
• •Longer View of Deity: No specific mention of extended viewing privileges is available.
• •Prasad and Puja: Prasad is available for purchase, and various pujas can be performed. Costs for special pujas can vary, and it is advisable to inquire directly at the temple.

Entry Restrictions for Foreigners

• •No Specific Restrictions: There are no specific entry restrictions for foreigners mentioned. Foreign visitors are welcome to participate in temple activities and rituals.

Special Fees/Declarations

• •No Special Fees or Declarations: There are no additional fees or declarations required for foreign visitors.

Location

• •Village: Mahad
• •District: Raigad
• •State: Maharashtra, India
• •Address: Mahad Village, Taluka Khalapur, District Raigad, Maharashtra, India, PIN - 410205

How to Reach

By Air

• •Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
• •Distance: Approximately 75 km from Mahad
• •Transport from Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Mahad.

By Train

• •Nearest Railway Station: Karjat Railway Station
• •Distance: Approximately 21 km from Mahad
• •Transport from Station: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Karjat Railway Station to Mahad.

By Bus

• •State Transport Buses: Maharashtra State Transport buses operate regularly from Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities to Mahad.
• •Mumbai to Mahad: Regular buses available from Mumbai Central Bus Station.
• •Pune to Mahad: Regular buses available from Pune Central Bus Station.

By Taxi

• •Private Taxis: You can hire private taxis from Mumbai, Pune, and other nearby cities to reach Mahad.

By Road

• •Self-Driving: Mahad is well-connected by road. You can drive from Mumbai via NH66 or from Pune via NH48 and SH88.

By Ferry/Port

• •Nearest Port: The nearest port for ferry services is in Mumbai. From Mumbai, you can travel by road or rail to reach Mahad.

.What are the rates associated with it? What is the advance booking procedure?

Special Poojas/Rituals: The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad offers various special poojas and rituals that can be performed by devotees. Here are some of the notable ones:

1. 1Daily Poojas:
   • •Morning Pooja: Early morning rituals to start the day with blessings.
   • •Afternoon Pooja: Midday prayers and offerings.
   • •Evening Pooja: Concluding the day with evening aartis and prayers.
2. 2Special Poojas:
   • •Sankashti Chaturthi Pooja: Special pooja performed on the fourth day of the waning moon every month, considered highly auspicious for Lord Ganesha.
   • •Maghi Utsav: Celebrated in the month of Magh, involving elaborate rituals and ceremonies.
   • •Bhadrapada Utsav: A significant festival in the month of Bhadrapada, featuring various rituals and festivities.

Rates and Advance Booking

• •The temple offers unique opportunities for devotees who wish to perform specific rituals or sponsor poojas.
• •Special Ritual Sponsorship: Devotees can sponsor an entire day's rituals and poojas for Rs. 31,000. This allows them and their families to worship and manage the temple rituals for that day without interference from temple priests.
• •For exact rates of various poojas and rituals, it is best to contact the temple administration directly.

Advance Booking Procedure

• •Devotees interested in performing special poojas or sponsoring rituals can book in advance by contacting the temple administration.

Online Services

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad offers several online services for the convenience of devotees. Here are the details:

1. 1Pooja Booking:
   • •Service: Devotees can book various poojas and rituals online. The temple provides a unique opportunity where a devotee donating Rs. 31,000 can manage the temple rituals for an entire day.
   • •Booking: You can book these services directly through the temple's official website or by contacting the temple administration.
   • •Contact Information:
   • •Phone: +91 2192 266912
   • •Address: Mahad Village, Taluka Khalapur, District Raigad, Maharashtra, India, PIN - 410205
2. 2Donations:
   • •Service: Donations can be made online for various causes, including temple maintenance and charitable activities.
   • •Tax Exemption: Donations may be eligible for tax exemptions under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act.
   • •More Info: For details, visit the official website.
3. 3Accommodation Booking:
   • •Service: The temple provides accommodation at the Bhakta Niwas. These facilities can be booked in advance.
   • •Details: The Bhakta Niwas offers clean and well-maintained rooms with basic amenities.
   • •Contact: For booking, contact the Bhakta Niwas directly at +91 2192 266912.
4. 4Prasad Services:
   • •Service: Devotees can order prasad online or on-site, which includes various offerings blessed during temple rituals.
   • •Procedure: Visit the temple's official website for details on how to order prasad.

Dress Code for Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad encourages devotees to dress modestly and traditionally, especially during special pujas and festival days. Here are the general guidelines:

1. 1General Dress Code:
   • •Men: Traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or kurta-pajama is preferred. Casual wear like pants and shirts are also acceptable as long as they are modest.
   • •Women: Sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional Indian wear is recommended. Casual wear should be modest, covering shoulders and knees.
2. 2Special Pujas and Festival Days:
   • •Men: Wearing traditional attire is highly encouraged. This adds to the sanctity and cultural ambiance of the temple during special occasions.
   • •Women: Traditional attire like sarees or salwar kameez is preferred. Ensure that the clothing is modest and respectful of the religious environment.
3. 3Additional Guidelines:
   • •Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or other revealing clothing.
   • •Footwear should be removed before entering the temple premises.

By adhering to these guidelines, devotees can show respect for the sacredness of the temple and enhance their spiritual experience.

Electronic Gadgets Policy

Are Electronic Gadgets Allowed?

• •General Policy: Electronic gadgets, including mobile phones and cameras, are typically not allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Varadvinayak Temple to maintain the sanctity and ensure an undisturbed environment for worship.

Storage Facilities

• •Mobile Phones and Cameras: If you bring electronic gadgets, it is advisable to leave them in your vehicle or deposit them at designated lockers or storage facilities provided near the temple entrance. Specific details about these facilities should be confirmed directly with the temple administration upon arrival.

Additional Information

• •Contact Details: For further clarification on the policy regarding electronic gadgets and the availability of storage facilities, you can contact the temple administration.
• •Phone: +91 2192 266912
• •Address: Mahad Village, Taluka Khalapur, District Raigad, Maharashtra, India, PIN - 410205

Is Photography Allowed?

• •General Policy: Photography is not allowed inside the Varadvinayak Temple premises. This policy helps maintain the sanctity and serene environment of the temple, ensuring that devotees can focus on their prayers and rituals without disturbances.

Facilities for Physically Handicapped

Elevator/Lift Facility

• •The available sources do not specify the presence of an elevator or lift at the Varadvinayak Temple. Considering the traditional structure of many Indian temples, it is likely that modern facilities such as elevators might not be available.

Accessibility

• •While specific details about ramps or other accessibility features are not mentioned, the temple may have basic facilities to assist elderly and physically challenged visitors. It is advisable to contact the temple administration directly to confirm the availability of any special facilities or assistance for physically handicapped individuals.

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad does not specifically mention the availability of wheelchair facilities for elderly and physically challenged visitors on its official sources. However, considering the traditional architecture and the nature of many Indian temples, modern accessibility features like wheelchairs might not be available directly within the temple premises.

Special Entry / Special Timing of Darshan for Sick/Senior Citizens/Physically Challenged Persons

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad offers special provisions for senior citizens, physically challenged individuals, and those who are sick, ensuring they can have a comfortable and serene darshan experience. Here are the details:

1. 1Special Entry:
   • •The temple provides a separate entry for senior citizens and physically challenged individuals to avoid long queues and facilitate easy access.
   • •This special entry allows these individuals to have a more peaceful darshan without the crowd and rush that typically occurs during peak hours and festivals.
2. 2Special Timing:
   • •There are dedicated timings for these groups, typically during less crowded hours, to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted darshan experience. It is best to check with the temple administration for the exact timings as they may vary on different days or during special festivals.
3. 3Assistance:
   • •Temple staff and volunteers are usually available to assist senior citizens and physically challenged individuals, providing necessary support to navigate the temple premises.
4. 13Special entry /Special Timing of Darshan for Sick/Senior Citizens /Physically Challenged persons.

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad does not have specific details about special entry timings for sick, senior citizens, or physically challenged persons available online. For accurate information, it is advisable to contact the temple administration directly to inquire about any provisions or special arrangements they might have.

Yes, the Varadvinayak Temple offers vehicle pooja services.

Timing and Cost

• •Timing: Vehicle poojas are typically conducted during the temple's open hours from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Specific times for vehicle poojas may vary, and it is best to confirm with the temple administration.
• •Cost: The cost for performing a vehicle pooja can vary. While specific fees are not listed online, such services usually involve a nominal charge. It is recommended to contact the temple for exact pricing.

Special Entry/Timing of Darshan for Sick/Senior Citizens/Physically Challenged Persons

• •There is no specific information available regarding special entry or timings for sick, senior citizens, or physically challenged persons. For the most accurate details, it's best to contact the temple administration directly at +91 2192 266912.

Vehicle Pooja

• •Timing: Vehicle poojas are performed during the temple's operating hours, from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
• •Cost: The cost for vehicle poojas is not specified online. It is advisable to inquire directly at the temple for exact rates and booking procedures.

Accommodation Facilities

• •Types of Facilities: The temple provides accommodation at the Bhakta Niwas, which offers clean and well-maintained rooms with basic amenities.
• •Cost: Rooms at Bhakta Niwas are available at a nominal rate of Rs. 200 per night.
• •Booking in Advance: To book accommodation in advance, you can contact the Bhakta Niwas directly at +91 2192 266912.

• •The temple provides parking facilities for cars, minibuses, and two-wheelers.
• •Specific details about the capacity and exact locations are not provided, so it is advisable to check with the temple administration upon arrival.

Temple Prashad Services

• •Meals: Lunch is provided as prasad by the temple from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
• •Procedure: Devotees can partake in the prasad service, which is often included as part of the temple visit.

Carry Home Prashad

• •Types: Prasad items such as laddoos and coconuts are available for devotees to take home.
• •Cost: The cost can vary, and it is best to inquire at the temple for specific prices.

Types of Carry Home Prashad

• •The temple offers prasad that can be taken home, typically including items like laddoos and coconuts.

Cost

• •The cost for carry home prasad varies, and it is best to inquire directly at the temple for the current prices.

Prashad Services

Temple Prashad Services

• •Meals and Prashad Distribution: The temple offers prashad to devotees, which includes various types of sweets and sanctified food items. There may be specific lines or arrangements during peak times or festivals to manage the distribution efficiently.
• •Procedure: Prashad is usually distributed after specific rituals or poojas. Devotees can collect the prashad from designated counters within the temple premises.
• •Payments: Typically, prashad is available for a nominal donation or for free. For special prashad or larger quantities, there may be a small charge. Payments are generally made at the temple counters.
• •Timings: Prashad distribution usually aligns with the temple's pooja schedule and is available throughout the day during temple hours.

Carry Home Prashad

• •Types: Common carry home prashad includes items like ladoos, modaks, and other traditional sweets.
• •Cost: The cost of carry home prashad varies depending on the type and quantity. Specific prices should be confirmed at the temple counters.
• •Purchase: Devotees can purchase prashad directly from the temple's prashad counters.

Reporting Lost Items

Procedure for Reporting Lost Items

1. 1Report Immediately: If you lose an item, report it as soon as possible to the temple office or security personnel.
2. 2Provide Details: Give a detailed description of the lost item, including its color, size, and any distinctive features, as well as the approximate location where it was lost.
3. 3Fill Out a Form: Some temples may have a specific lost and found form that you need to fill out, providing your contact information and details about the lost item.
4. 4Check Regularly: Follow up with the temple office or security desk periodically to see if your item has been found.
5. 5Announcements: In some cases, the temple may make announcements about lost items over their public address system.

Procedure for Reporting

1. 1Report Immediately: As soon as you realize that a member of your group is missing, report it to the temple office or security personnel. The sooner the report is made, the higher the chances of locating the missing person quickly.
2. 2Provide Detailed Information: Give a detailed description of the missing person, including their name, age, physical appearance, clothing, and the last known location within the temple premises.
3. 3Use Public Announcement System: Request the temple authorities to make an announcement over the public address system. This can help in quickly alerting other visitors and staff to look for the missing person.

Designated Waiting Area

• •Agree on a Meeting Point: Before entering the temple, agree on a designated meeting point within or near the temple premises where all group members will wait if someone goes missing. Common waiting areas include near the main entrance, the temple office, or specific landmarks within the temple complex.
• •Stay Visible: Choose a visible and easily recognizable spot. Avoid crowded places where it might be difficult to spot each other.

Follow-Up Actions

• •Regular Updates: Keep checking with the temple office or security personnel for updates on the missing person.
• •Stay Calm and Patient: It’s important to remain calm and patient while the search is ongoing.

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad is recognized and managed as a Math, a religious institution, under the local temple trust. While it is not explicitly mentioned whether it is registered under the state government or district administration, such temples typically operate under the jurisdiction of local authorities and religious trusts, ensuring adherence to administrative and religious guidelines.

Donations to the Varadvinayak Temple can be made directly at the temple premises. The temple may also accept donations via bank transfers for various purposes like temple maintenance, pooja sponsorships, and charitable activities. To get the specific bank details and information on how to donate, it is best to contact the temple administration.

While there is no specific mention of privileges similar to those at Tirupati or Shirdi, the temple offers a unique opportunity for significant donations. For instance, a devotee donating Rs 31,000 is given the chance to manage the temple rituals for an entire day, along with their family, without interference from the temple priests. This provides a personal and immersive spiritual experience.

The Varadvinayak Temple, built in 1725 by Peshwa General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar, features traditional Maharashtrian architecture. The temple has a simple design with a tiled roof and a dome that stands 25 feet high. Unique features include the Nandadeep (an eternal lamp) that has been burning since 1892 and a Gomukh (cow's face) spout from which holy water flows. The idol of Lord Ganesha, found in 1690, is self-manifested and faces east with a left-turned trunk. The temple premises also house idols of Mushika, Navagraha, and Shivalinga.

“ The region surrounding the Kasar Devi Temple has an enormous geomagnetic field or Paramagnetism, thanks to gaps in bands of radiation. As a result, Kasar Devi is endowed with a cosmic energy similar to that of Stonehenge in UK and Machu Picchu in Peru.”

The Varadvinayak Temple does not have specific scientific phenomena like geomagnetic fields. However, it holds spiritual significance due to its historical and religious context. The self-manifested idol and the Nandadeep, burning continuously since 1892, add to the temple's unique spiritual ambiance.

Foreign visitors interested in spirituality can appreciate the peaceful ambiance of the temple, its historical significance, and the unique traditions such as the self-manifested idol and the eternal Nandadeep. Participating in or observing the daily rituals and special poojas can provide a deeper understanding of the spiritual practices and cultural heritage of the region.

27 .Call to action or interaction links- here in it could be for

a. Puja( as and when we tie up) or link to the puja facility on the temple web site( back linking)

b.Donation ( link)

c.Accomodation - here link to our site where we have listed accommodation of all types with an enquiry form

d.Exemption available under Income tax act - 80G etc for the donation made. For eg. Donation to the Anna dana at Shirdi is eligible for 100%/50% exemption.

Call to Action and Interaction Links

1. 1Puja Booking:
   • •Button/Link Text: "Book a Puja"
   • •Description: "Experience the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha by booking a puja at the Varadvinayak Temple. Click here to schedule your puja online."
   • •Action: Link to the puja booking page on the temple’s official website.
   • •Example Link: Book a Puja at Varadvinayak Temple
2. 2Donations:
   • •Button/Link Text: "Donate Now"
   • •Description: "Support the upkeep and activities of the Varadvinayak Temple by making a donation. Your contributions help in maintaining the temple and supporting charitable activities."
   • •Action: Link to the donation page on the temple’s official website.
   • •Example Link: Donate to Varadvinayak Temple
3. 3Accommodation Booking:
   • •Button/Link Text: "Book Your Stay"
   • •Description: "Planning a visit to the Varadvinayak Temple? Find comfortable accommodations nearby and book your stay in advance. Click here to view options and make a reservation."
   • •Action: Link to your site’s accommodation listings page with an enquiry form.
   • •Example Link: Accommodation Near Varadvinayak Temple
4. 4Tax Exemption Information:
   • •Button/Link Text: "Tax Exemption Details"
   • •Description: "Donations to the Varadvinayak Temple may be eligible for tax exemptions under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. Learn more about how your contributions can benefit you and support the temple."
   • •Action: Link to a detailed page explaining the tax exemption benefits and procedures for claiming them.
   • •Example Link: Tax Exemption on Donations

Annual Events

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad celebrates several major annual festivals

1. 1Ganesh Chaturthi:
   • •Timing: Celebrated from the first day (Pratipada) to the fifth day (Panchami) of Bhadrapada Shukla (waxing phase of the moon), which usually falls in August-September.
   • •Details: This festival marks the birth of Lord Ganesha and includes elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and a grand fair.
2. 2Maghi Utsav:
   • •Timing: Celebrated from the first day (Pratipada) to the sixth day (Shashthi) of Magha Shukla (waxing phase of the moon), which usually falls in January-February.
   • •Details: This festival includes special rituals and prayers. It is believed that consuming a coconut received as prasad during this festival blesses the devotee with a son.

Sankashti Chaturthi

• •Description: This is a monthly event observed on the fourth day of the waning moon. It is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha.
• •Timings: The temple performs special poojas and rituals throughout the day. Devotees fast and participate in evening aarti.
• •Details: Special arrangements are made for the influx of devotees, ensuring everyone can participate in the poojas​ (TemplePurohit)​.