Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Built by: Paramara Kings
Built in: 11th - 12th Century
Dedicated to: Lord Ganesha
Significance: Highly revered shrine of Lord Ganesha
How to reach: One can easily reach Chintaman Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring Taxis from Indore and Bhopal
Chintaman Ganesh Temple is an antediluvian shrine that dates back to 11th -12th centuries. This ancient temple is highly revered and one of the most visited shrines of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. One can easily reach Chintamani Temple from anywhere in Madhya Pradesh by hiring private taxis. However, one can take regular buses that are available from Indore and Bhopal. Chintamani Ganesha Mandir is wholly made out in stone. It is believed that the temple was built during the reign of Paramaras in Madhya Pradesh (Malwa).
The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is regarded as the Lord of beginnings as per the Hindu beliefs. In the traditional times, the Lord is known as 'Chintaharan', which literally means remover of all worries and tensions. The temple is thronged by crowds of people that come to do away with all their worries at the shrine of the Lord. The term 'Chintamani' is another name used for Lord Vishnu, who is considered as the preserver of the Universe as per Hindu Mythology.
Inside the temple, the 'Garbhgriha' comprises the image of Lord Ganesha. The main point is that this idol is supposed to be 'swayambhu' (self-manifested), unlike other idols. The site is adored by the two wives of Lord Ganesha, Riddhi and Siddhi that are placed on the either side of the Lord. The temple also embraces the idol of Lord Vishnu in its vicinity. Here, Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu are worshipped together with great devotion.
The very appearance of the temple suggests that it belongs to prehistoric times. Still, the temple has not lost its charm; in fact, it has become unique with its ancient origin. Chintaman Ganesh Temple boasts of its artistically carved pillars that are placed in the assembly hall. The age-old sanctity of the temple is preserved till date. The belief of the devotees for this shrine makes it all the more sanctified. People visit this temple, in large numbers, to get the graceful blessings of Lord Ganesha.
