Varadavinayak

Varadavinayak is one of the Ashtavinayak temples, a group of eight ancient and revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, located in the state of Maharashtra, India. This particular temple is situated in the village of Mahad, near Khopoli, in the Raigad district. The deity at Varadavinayak is known as Swayambhu, meaning self-originated, as the idol is believed to have been discovered in the nearby river and then placed in its current sanctum.

The idol of Varadavinayak is unique among the Ashtavinayak deities. It is depicted with its trunk turned to the left. Unlike other Ganesha idols, this one is adorned with a cobra coiled around its neck. Legend states that the temple was built by Pushpadatta, a chieftain under the Maratha ruler Shivaji, though its exact age is difficult to ascertain. A distinctive feature of the temple is the presence of an ancient oil lamp that is said to have been burning continuously since the temple's inception.

Pilgrims visiting Varadavinayak believe that the deity grants wishes and bestows blessings, hence the name 'Varada' meaning 'boon-giver' and 'Vinayak' another name for Lord Ganesha. The temple complex also includes a pond and a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Ashtavinayak pilgrimage is considered highly auspicious, and visiting Varadavinayak is an integral part of this journey for many devotees. The temple is accessible by road and is a popular destination for religious tourism.