Bade Ganesh Temple in Varanasi
is famous for a Swayambhu murti of Ganesha – the murti is believed to have appeared on its own. The
temple was built thousands of years ago and Ganeshji is present in the temple
with his entire family – Sidhi, Ridhi, Shubh and Labh.
The main murti of Ganesha sits on a silver throne which is
placed on a lotus structure. The murti is red in color and wears silver crown.
The huge murti looks at Shiva who sits on the northern side.
The main sanctum sanctorum has murtis of Ganeshji’s wives
Riddhi and Siddhi. Murtis of his sons Shubh and Labh too are found in the main
sanctum.
Vahana,,or vehicle, of Ganesha, mushak, is installed in front
of the main murtis.
Apart from this there are also murtis of Dwarpal Ganeshji,
Shiva, Mansa Devi, Santoshi Ma and Lakshmi Narayan.
Offering of invitation cards is an important ritual here as
it is believed that nothing prospers without the blessing of Bade Ganeshji.
Annakut Puja is the most important day at the temple when
1008 types of food are offered to the deity.