Siddhivinayak Temple, Siddhatek

Significance

Siddhatek is the second temple of the Ashtavinayak circuit and the only one in Ahilyanagar (formerly Ahmednagar) district. Its Ganesha has his trunk turned to the right, which is rare and considered especially powerful. This is a different temple from the well-known Siddhivinayak in Mumbai.

History and legend

Legend holds that Vishnu could not defeat the demons Madhu and Kaitabha until Shiva told him to first propitiate Ganesha. Vishnu worshipped Ganesha at Siddhatek, gained his blessing, and won; the place was named for the siddhi, or success, he gained.

Before you go

• Devotees often walk around the hillock seven times; the path is unpaved and passes through thorny scrub, so wear sturdy shoes.
• Although it is second in the traditional order, many pilgrims visit it third, after Morgaon and Theur, as that route is easier.