Varad Gupchup Ganpati Temple Pune

Varad Gupchup Ganpati Temple- Pune

Varad Ganapati Mandir, also known as the Gupchup Ganapati Mandir is located at Shaniwar Peth in Pune which was established in 1892. The heritage temple appears from outside like a typical wada.The wooden sabha mandap and gallery decorated with ‘handis’ and old framed prints make it a handsome sight.
Originally built towards the end of the 19th century, this heritage-site temple was almost completely reconstructed after the destructive Panshet flood of 1961.

Varad means ‘the one who bestows blessings’, and traditionally refers to the benevolence of Lord Ganapati. According to Dr Chaitanya Kunte, this temple, located in Shaniwar Peth, was established on February 12, 1882 by Ramchandra Vishnu Gupchup, leading to the temple name Gupchup Ganapati Mandir.

In July 1961, the destructive Panshet flood eroded all of the temple except for the stone garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) and parts of the sabha mandapa’s (anterior hall) wooden framework. The damaged structure of the temple had to be reconstructed. Presently the sabha mandapa is two-storeyed, with the centre being twice as high and the upper floor supported by teakwood posts.

The sculptor of the Ganesha idol in this temple, Moreshwar Shastri Dixit, was close to Lokmanya Tilak and N.C. Kelkar, who used to visit this temple regularly.

Two events are organized at the temple every year including one to celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha and one to celebrate the foundation anniversary of the temple. Both these events are organized as per the Hindu calendar, the temple organises evening bhajans for its devotees. Stotras and aaratis are recited in the temple by the priest. Bhajans are sung by the singers in a chorus.