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.
