Shri Chintamani Ganesh Temple
Kalamb (Vidarbha, Maharashtra)
In Hindu religion, Shri Ganesh or Shri Ganapati or commonly called as
Bappa is very important and popular god. Before worshipping any god or goddess or
any festival pooja, first Shri Ganesh is worshiped. All over India and more particularly
in Maharashtra State, every year 10 days of Shri Ganesh festival is celebrated.
During this period, Ganesh idols are installed and worshiped not only at public
places but also almost at every family house, particularly in Maharashtra. Ashtavinayak
or Ashtaganesh (8 temples of Shri Ganesh) around Pune city in Maharashtra State
are very popular and visited by many tourists. Visiting these 8 temples or Ashtavinayak
Yatra has its own importance for pilgrims. All these 8 temples are situated near
Pune city of Maharashtra. But many of us may not know that there are another 8
Shri Ganesh temples which are known as Ashtavinayak of Vidarbha (part of Maharashtra
State around Nagpur). Vidarbha Ashtavinayak temples are as below.
Shri Chintamani Ganesh Temple at Kalamb is one of the Vidarbha
Ashtavinayak. Kalamb is on Nagpur to Yavatmal road about 22 kms from Yavatmal and
about 132 kms from Nagpur by road. Nagpur to Kalamb road is excellent and
driving down is very enjoyable. This temple is unique being underground (about
35 feet below ground level and about 29 steps down).
Kalamb village is located on the banks of River Chkravarti. Kalamb has
got its name from the Kadambu tree commonly found in this area. It is believed that
this temple is made by Rishi Kadamb. It is also believed to be established by
God Indra. One has to go 29 steps down for darshan of Shri Chintamani. Annual
fair of this temple is organized in the month of Magha Shuddha from Chaturthi
to Saptami.
It is believed that this temple has been constructed in the 7th
or 8th Century. It is also believed that this is the place where God
Ganesh has blessed God Indra and relieved him from the curse of Rishi Gautam.
This temple has the reference in the Skanda and Mudgal Puranas as well as in
the Ganesh Puran.
After every 12 years, water from the Ganesh Kund in front of the sanctum
begins to rise and partially submerges the Shri Ganesh idol. Shri Ganesh idol
is very beautiful, about 4.5 feet high and unique feature is that idol is
Dakshinabhimukhi (facing south). Temple is well maintained, very quiet,
peaceful and with full of spiritual feel. Temple is not crowded except special days
such as Chaturthi or annual festival. A must visit place…
