Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple, Pune

Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple

Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple, located in Pune, Maharashtra, is one of the most iconic and spiritually significant temples in the city. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known here as Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati.

“सारसबाग के श्री सिद्धिविनायक के चरणों में सच्ची श्रद्धा ही सबसे बड़ी पूजा है।”

― Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple

The temple is set within the beautiful Sarasbaug garden, which was once a lake. Locally, the deity is affectionately called “Talyatla Ganapati” (Ganapati of the lake).

Mythological Significance & History

The idea of Sarasbaug and its surrounding lake was initiated in 1750 by Nanasaheb Peshwa, a key figure in the Maratha Empire.
In 1784, Sawai Madhavrao Peshwa built the original temple and installed the idol of Lord Ganesha.
The temple island was used as a secret meeting spot for military strategies against the British and Nizam, as it was surrounded by water and accessible only by boat.
The temple underwent major renovations in 1969 and the present structure was inaugurated in 1977.
The management of the temple and trust was handled by the Devasthan Trust established by the Peshwas.

Significance of the Temple

The deity here is a Siddhivinayak form of Lord Ganesha, known to fulfill devotees’ wishes.
It is believed that praying for 21 consecutive days at the same time daily grants special blessings.
Devotees from across India visit this temple during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Maghi Ganesh Jayanti.
The temple is also popular for hosting mass marriage ceremonies, social initiatives, and spiritual discourses.