From shikara to pillars, Ganesh mandal recreates Somnath Temple in Pune

For this year's Ganeshotsav, Pune residents do not require a journey to Gujarat to seek blessings at the revered Somnath Temple. As one of India's holiest pilgrimage destinations, and believed to be the first of the 12 jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple traces its origins back to 649 BC, though many historians argue it predates that even further. Now, the Hutatma Babu Genu Mandal Trust, widely known as Navsacha Ganpati, has faithfully recreated the temple's grandeur as a Ganeshotsav pandal.

Formed in 1970, the trust is currently celebrating its 53rd year. The colossal display was meticulously designed by the team led by art director Nitin Desai. Under the leadership of Hemant and Roshan, a squad of 30 to 40 artisans labored tirelessly for 25 days to capture the intricate carvings, towering shikharas, and pillars that mirror the original temple with astonishing accuracy. Every artisan understood the significance of adhering to the minutest architectural detail.

Kishor Dabare, the president of the trust, explained, "The decoration is not merely art; it is an experience where architecture, faith, and tradition converge, enabling every devotee to depart with hope that their wish will be granted."

Throughout the Ganeshotsav, visitors to the recreated Somnath Temple have continued to place their faith in the water bodies surrounding the temple, just as they do in the original. The trust has drawn inspiration from the temple's sacred temple tanks, where devotees throw coins to make wishes. They have constructed a north-facing well, where visitors can make a wish by tossing a coin into its waters.

"We have seen an influx of devotees from Thailand and other countries eager to experience the culture and traditions of Ganeshotsav," Milap Marne, the secretary of the trust, remarked.

Devotees approach the well, close their eyes, whisper their wishes, and cast their coins into the water. "They believe that the well transmits their wishes to Bappa," Milap Marne explained.

Ketan Pawar, a third-generation volunteer at the mandal, shared that over the years, many devotees return year after year, expressing their belief that their wishes have been fulfilled by the ‘Ichha Purti Kalash’. "Many devotees return year after year, saying that their wishes were fulfilled," Pawar noted.

The well is set to become a permanent feature of the temple, with talks underway with the Pune Municipal Corporation to ensure its longevity. Positioned towards the north, a direction associated with progress and prosperity, the well is flanked by a fountain and pond, ensuring that the water offered during prayers flows towards the Kalash and the well.