Limbaganesh Bhalchandra Ganapati Temple Maharastra

Bhalchandra Ganapati is located at Limbaganesh village in Beed district of Maharastra.This temple, according to ancient scriptures, was established by Chandra, the moon god, and is mentioned in the Puranas.

Bhalchandra is a unique form of Lord Ganesha, adorned with the moon (Chandra) on his forehead (Bhal). The name “Bhalchandra” itself translates to “the one with the moon on his forehead.”

Limbaganesh is an ancient village named after a demon named Limbasur, who once tormented the local devotees. The devotees prayed to Bhalchandra Ganesh for help, and in response, Ganesh killed Limbasur. Before dying, Limbasur asked for the area to be named after him. As a result, the village became Limbaganesh. A tomb of Limbasur still exists to the north of the temple.

Bhalchandra Ganesh Temple, located southeast of the village by the Ganeshi River, dates back to the 16th century AD and is built in Hemadpanti style. Renovated in 1830 by Shri Bhavanidas Bhusari, as noted in the entrance inscription, it features stone interiors, spearmen and chopper sculptures, and idols of Ganesh Vahan and a mouse in the auditorium. A lamp garland adorns the front, and a protective wall surrounds the temple.

Shri Ganesha had cursed Chandradev in ancient times due to an incident on Kailash Mountain. An argument arose between Shri Ganesha and Shadanan, during which Chandradev mocked Ganesha’s appearance with a laugh. Enraged by this insult, Ganesha cursed the moon, declaring, “O Moon, your radiance will disappear, and you will become lustrous.” As a result, Chandradev lost his brilliance and became sorrowful.

In his despair, Chandradev wandered for a long time until he found a serene place on the southern bank of the Godavari River. Captivated by the beauty of the location, he began performing penance there with a devoted heart. Pleased by his austerity, Shri Ganesha appeared before Chandradev and blessed him, restoring his radiance. Furthermore, Ganesha decreed that devotees who fast on Sankashti Chaturthi would not eat without first seeing the moon. However, as Ganesha was born on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi, no one would view the moon on that specific day.

Limbaganesh Bhalchandra Temple is known for its vibrant celebrations, with Ganesh Chaturthi being the most prominent, attracting a large number of devotees who come to mark the birth of Lord Ganesh. Sankashti Chaturthi, observed every month, also draws many visitors who fast and pray for the removal of obstacles.Devotees visit the temple year-round, but during these festivals, the temple sees a surge in visitors who seek blessings and participate in various rituals