56 Vinayaka Temples in Kashi

Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is home to 56 temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, collectively known as the "Chappan Vinayaka Temples". These temples are mentioned in the Skanda Purana and are important pilgrimage sites. The most prominent among them is the Dhundiraj Vinayaka Temple, located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Each Vinayaka temple is believed to bestow blessings on devotees, making pilgrimages to these sites an essential part of Kashi's spiritual landscape.

Table of Contents

1. Why are there 56 Vinayakas in Kashi?
2. Architecture of the 56 Vinayaka Temples
3. Significance of Dhundiraj Vinayaka
4. Why visit the 56 Vinayakas?
5. Rituals performed at the 56 Vinayaka Temples

Why are there 56 Vinayakas in Kashi?

The presence of 56 forms of Lord Ganesha, collectively known as Vinayakas, in the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi) has deep spiritual significance. According to legend, Kashi was a sinless city under the divine rule of Lord Shiva. Both Shiva and the city became arrogant due to their perfection. To humble them, Lord Ganesha appeared as Dhundiraj Vinayak and disrupted the harmony of Kashi for 60 years, causing a severe drought in the land. This disruption was a divine strategy to teach humility and balance. During this turbulent period, King Divodas ruled Kashi. Ganesha, disguised as an astrologer, posed challenges to the king, which ultimately led to his downfall. Recognizing the need for change, the people of Kashi invited Lord Shiva back to restore order. In response, Ganesha assumed 56 different forms, each representing a unique aspect of his divine energy, and established his presence throughout the city.

Devotees believe that worshipping these 56 Vinayakas, especially Dhundiraj Vinayak, after performing a parikrama of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, brings blessings, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. This tradition emphasises the importance of humility and devotion, making the 56 Vinayakas a central aspect of Kashi's spiritual landscape.

Architecture of the 56 Vinayaka Temples

The fifty-six Vinayaka temples in Kashi display unique architectural features that reflect their historical and cultural significance:

Diverse styles: Each temple displays a mix of architectural styles influenced by different historical periods and local traditions.
Intricate carvings: The temples have detailed carvings and sculptures, especially of Lord Ganesha, which are integral to their aesthetic appeal.
Mandap and sanctum: The layout typically includes spacious mandap (hall) and sanctum, designed for rituals and gatherings, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
Sacred geometry: The design of each temple often follows the principles of Vastu Shastra, reflecting the deep connection of Hindu cosmology and spirituality.

Significance of Dhundiraj Vinayak

Dhundhiraj Vinayak holds great significance in Kashi due to reestablishing the presence of Lord Shiva in the city. According to legend, when King Divodas ruled Kashi, he was granted a boon whereby the gods could not enter, causing Lord Shiva to leave. To restore balance, Ganesha appeared as Dhundiraj Vinayak and disrupted the administration for 60 years, eventually leading to Divodas' failure. This allowed Shiva to return and in gratitude, he declared that worshiping Dhundiraj Vinayak in front of him would bring blessings to devotees. The idol of Dhundiraj Vinayak is located at the entrance of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, symbolizing the essential connection between Ganesha and Shiva. Pilgrims believe that paying respects to Dhundiraj Vinayak is crucial for a complete Kashi pilgrimage, as he symbolises the remover of obstacles and bestowing blessings.

Why visit the 56 Vinayakas?

Visit to the 56 Vinayaka temples in Kashi (Varanasi) holds great significance for pilgrims and devotees of Lord Ganesha. Here are some of the main reasons why visiting these temples is important:

1. Fulfilment of wishes
According to the Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana, worshipping the 56 Vinayaka temples fulfils the wishes of devotees. Each temple is believed to bestow specific blessings and siddhis (spiritual powers) to devotees.
2. Removal of obstacles
Lord Ganesha is considered the remover of obstacles. Visiting the 56 temples and seeking their blessings is believed to help devotees overcome difficulties in their lives.
3. Pleasing Lord Shiva
The Kashi Khanda states that Lord Shiva himself praised Ganesha, as he paved the way for his entry into Kashi. Worshipping the 56 Vinayaka temples during a pilgrimage to Kashi is considered an important part of pleasing Lord Shiva.
4. Attaining salvation
Devotees believe that worshipping the 56 Vinayaka temples, especially the prominent Dhundiraj Vinayaka temple, can help attain moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death.
5. Connecting to Kashi's spiritual heritage
Visiting the 56 Vinayaka temples connects one to Kashi's rich spiritual heritage. The temples are mentioned in ancient texts such as the Skanda Purana, making them an integral part of the city's sacred geography.
6. The Arrows of Kashi
Worshipping at the 56 Vinayaka temples is considered highly auspicious for pilgrims. It is believed to fulfil wishes, remove obstacles, please Lord Shiva, provide liberation and connect one to the city's profound spiritual heritage.

Rituals performed at 56 Vinayaka Temples

The 56 Vinayaka temples in Kashi (Varanasi) have many unique rituals that reflect the cultural and spiritual significance of Lord Ganesha.

Worship on specific days
Tuesdays and Chaturthi: Special importance is given to worshipping on Tuesdays, especially when they coincide with Chaturthi (the fourth day of the lunar month). Devotees often perform elaborate rituals on these days to seek blessings and fulfil wishes.

Offerings and Bhog
Devotees usually offer flowers, green grass and sweets (bhog) to the idols. This practice is common in many Vinayaka temples, emphasizing the importance of offering prasad as a sign of devotion.

Pilgrimage
Many devotees participate in a yatra (pilgrimage) that covers all 56 temples, which can take 2-3 days. This journey is considered an important spiritual undertaking, giving devotees a chance to connect deeply with their faith.

Self-worship
At many temples, devotees are encouraged to perform the puja or darshan on their own, making the experience personal and intimate. This practice is carried out at many places that are open throughout the day, making it convenient for devotees.

Special rituals for specific deities
Each Vinayak temple may have unique rituals associated with its specific deity. For example, Abhaya Vinayak is worshipped to ward off fear, while devotees visiting Kashi Vishwanath temple often visit Dhundiraj Vinayak first.