Pune, Maharashtra’s Trishund Ganpati temple is a revered location that pays homage to centuries of custom and unshakable dedication. The inquisitive and the devout are drawn to this sacred site to see its spiritual appeal because of its distinct charm, which is hidden amid the activity of the metropolis. Trishund Ganpati sometimes referred to as Trishund Vinayak, has a millennium-long heritage. The temple’s beginnings are woven throughout history, tracing back to a time when the city was a bulwark of vibrant spirituality and culture. Within the temple precincts, historic stone sculptures and architectural wonders evoke memories of a bygone period.
The Origins and Inception of Ancient Roots
Bhimjigiri Gosavi of Dhampur, near Indore, began construction of the Trishund Mayureshwar Ganpati temple on August 26, 1754, and it was finished in 1770. Nestled among the busy streets of Somwar Peth is the nearly unnoticed Trishund Mayureshwar Ganpati temple. Near the Kamala Nehru Hospital Chowk, there is a modest yet exquisite temple that was built with a direct entrance to the banks of the Nagzari stream. Bhimjigiri Gosavi, a resident of Dhampur, near Indore, began building this temple on August 26, 1754, and it was finished in 1770.
Symbolism and Significance
The name “Trishund” translates to “three and a half,” a unique characteristic of the temple’s primary deity, Lord Ganesha. Devotees believe that the idol, adorned with three eyes, symbolizes the all-encompassing cosmic vision of the revered deity. The sanctum radiates a spiritual energy that resonates with pilgrims seeking blessings for auspicious beginnings, wisdom, and success.
The idol of Trishund Ganpati _©Author Architectural Splendour
Unique Idols and Artistry
The idol is carved entirely of black basalt rock. The extraordinary creativity that has endured the test of time is shown in the idol’s exquisite detailing, which includes the elephant-headed deity’s softly curved eyes and trunk that holds a modak.
Timeless Elegance
The stunningly beautiful façade has intricate carvings of figures, animals, and mythological creatures, many of which appear to be somewhat unusual (like a Rhinoceros chained by a British soldier!). The architectural style is syncretic of Malwa, Rajputana, and Dravidian elements. On the back of the temple in a wall niche is a depiction of Lingodbhava, a typical South Indian temple feature.
Goddess Lakshmi with two elephants is carved over the pair of dwarpalakas (doorkeepers) flanking the temple’s entrance. This leads to the sanctum sanctorum, where an inscription recording the construction of the Gurudevadatta temple is written in Devanagari, Sanskrit, and Persian, citing a verse from the Gita. In addition, the temple contains a basement that is thought to have been utilized for meditation by ascetics.
There is a memorial dedicated to Bhimjigiri Gosavi in the basement, as well as an open hall supported by two pillars. The basement is typically wet because of an intake for collecting water. The only day it is accessible to the public is Guru Purnima.
Carvings and Scriptures
There are three inscriptions on the wall of the temple’s sanctum, which is another fascinating feature. There are two of them written in Sanskrit and Devanagari script, while one is curiously written in Persian. The initial inscription recounts the tale of the 1754 temple inspection and the establishment of Rameshwara. Verse fragments from the Bhagavad Gita and an account of the building of the Gurudev Datta temple may be found on the second and third lines, respectively. Inscriptions from the British era can also be found in the shrine. One of the sculptures in front of the shrine depicts the British tying a rhinoceros tightly with iron chains. The illustration of the rhinoceros revolves around the fact that the British captured Bengal and Assam following the Battle of Plassey in 1757; as rhinos are a symbol of Assam, the illustration tells the state’s history.
Devotional Rhythms
Festivals & Celebrations: During festivals, particularly the lavish celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, and Guru Purnima Trishund Ganpati comes to life. The sound of incense, the collective devotion of the assembled devout, and the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments fill the temple. Worshippers are engulfed in a divine embrace as a result of the lively colors and joyful chants that create an atmosphere beyond the ordinary. The calm atmosphere of the temple offers a haven for anyone looking for times of reflection and spiritual connection. Considered a soul-transforming experience, many engage in penance and prayer.
Preservation and Restoration
The Pune Municipal Corporation has taken up the preservation and repair of the temple to strengthen the building while keeping the temple’s beauty. Shyam Dhawale, Chief of PMC Heritage Division, is leading this effort. The goal of the restoration has been to maintain the temple’s historical significance while also ensuring that it will be a thriving center of spiritual devotion for upcoming generations.
The history of Pune and the aspirations of many generations towards spirituality are both embodied in Trishund Ganpati. It serves as a living example of the tenacity of faith due to its long history, magnificent architecture, and unwavering devotion. Time stops still and the divine reverberates through the ages as the doors to the temple open to both the curious and the devout. In addition to being a site of worship, Trishund Ganpati continues to be a haven where devotion, art, and history come together to leave a lasting legacy that goes beyond time. As long as people seek comfort in its hallowed embrace, may Trishund Ganpati’s heavenly blessings continue to inspire and lead them
References:
Bari. P (2017). An ancient Ganesh temple nestled quietly in Pune’s bustling Somwar Peth.The Hindustan Times, p.1. Available at https://www.hindustantimes.com/pune-news/an-ancient-ganesh-temple-nested-quietly-in-the-bustling-somwar-peth-of-pune/story-hDMXU9Ipvp0aOIrV70WjWK.html [Accessed July 2017].
Yelgunde. N (2017)Trishund Ganpati Temple: Over 250-year-old temple in for a Rs 25-lakh makeover by Pune Municipal Corporation. Hindustan Times, p.1. Available at https://indianexpress.com/article/india/trishund-ganpati-temple-over-250-year-old-temple-in-for-a-rs-25-lakh-makeover-by-pmc-4477870/ [Accessed July 2017].
Ancient Hindu (2018). Trishund Ganpati.[online]. Available at https://m.facebook.com/nlbpb1967/posts/1655112338173628/
