Have a wish that you want granted? Visit the famous Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, devoted to Lord Ganesh. While many Hindu temples only allow Hindus to enter, thereby adding to the religion’s mystery, this temple welcomes everyone with its open door policy. Visitors shouldn’t expect a peaceful experience however. On an average day, the temple draws over 25,000 people. Every Tuesday, the most auspicious day of the week, this number swells to over 100,000 people. From Monday evening, the crowd starts swarming around the temple and lining up in anticipation of Tuesday’s 4.45am holy aarti (prayer).
The temple was built in 1801. As a result of of support from politicians and Bollywood stars, it's grown to be one of the richest and grandest in Mumbai. In evidence of this, the inner roof of the sanctum is plated with gold. The idol of Lord Ganesh, which is only around 2.5 feet tall, is made out of black stone.
Where: Corner of Kakasaheb Gadgil Marg and S.K. Bole Marg Prabhadevi, in central south Mumbai. Behind the temple, there's a narrow lane overflowing with stalls selling coconut, garlands, and an assortment of sweets. It's also possible to enter from there.
More Information: Siddhivinayak Temple website.
