Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

Dagdusheth Temple, also known as Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, is a renowned Hindu temple located in Pune, Maharashtra. This remarkable temple pays homage to Lord Ganesha, renowned for his power to break down barriers and grant blessings. As one of Maharashtra's most beloved Ganesh shrines, it holds an esteemed place of reverence among its faithful visitors.

The founding of the Dagdusheth Temple by Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife, Lakshmibai, took place in the late 19th century. Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai, a sweet vendor by profession, was a devoted follower of Lord Ganesha. Their small boy, whose memory the temple honours, passed away. The temple still exists as a testament to faith, devotion, and respect.

Best time to Visit Dagdusheth Temple

Dagdusheth Temple can be visited throughout the year, but certain periods are considered the best time to experience its vibrant atmosphere and festivities. The ideal time to visit Dagdusheth Temple is during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which usually falls between August and September. Apart from Ganesh Chaturthi, visiting the temple during weekdays or non-peak hours is also recommended to avoid large crowds. This allows for a more serene and personal experience of offering prayers and seeking blessings.

More About Dagdusheth Temple, Pune

One of the striking features of Dagdusheth Temple is its magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha. The gold-and-jewel-encrusted idol is about 2.2 m tall and 1.8 m wide. Throughout the year, devotees swarm the temple, but the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are especially stunning. During this time, the temple comes alive with elaborate decorations, devotional music, and vibrant processions. During this auspicious time, devotees offer prayers and ask for blessings as the idol of Lord Ganesha is lavishly decked with flowers and jewellery.

The temple's design combines traditional and contemporary elements. The main shrine emanates a sense of grandeur and tranquility and is embellished with beautiful carvings and ornaments. The temple's interior is decorated with vibrant frescoes and murals that depict diverse scenes from Hindu mythology, evoking a fervent spiritual atmosphere.

Dagdusheth Temple Services

• The temple organises annadan, a charitable act of providing free meals, especially during specific occasions or festivals.


• The temple holds several Lord Ganesha-related pujas (rituals) and aartis (devotional ceremonies).


• The temple accepts donationsfrom followers and uses them towards the care and growth of the temple complex and its activities.


• The temple provides spiritual guidanceto devotees who require it for their personal lives.


• The temple actively engages in community service activities. It may involve providing educational assistance, healthcare facilities, and support to underprivileged sections of society.

Dagdusheth Temple Prayer

The primary Ganesha image, which is exquisitely decorated and kept in the temple's sanctum sanctorum, is approached by worshippers. Many hymns and mantras are chanted in adoration of Lord Ganesha by followers. The popular chant "Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha" is commonly recited as a means of invoking blessings and seeking the divine grace of the deity. Devotees may also perform pradakshina (circumambulation) around the idol of Lord Ganesha.

Dagdusheth Temple Aarti

The Aarti schedule at Dagdusheth Temple may vary depending on the specific days and festivals. Here is a general outline of the Aarti schedule at Dagdusheth Temple:

Kakad Aarti:Kakad Aarti is the morning aarti performed during the early hours of the day, just before sunrise.

Madhyan Aarti:Madhyan Aarti is the midday aarti conducted during the afternoon.

Dhoop Aarti:Dhoop Aarti is the evening Aarti performed during sunset hours.

Shej Aarti:Shej Aarti is the night Aarti, conducted before the temple closes for the day. It is performed after sunset, signifying the resting and retirement of Lord Ganesha for the night.

Dagdusheth Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, also holds special Aarti ceremonies on significant occasions and festivals. Some of the notable special aartis are Ganesh Chaturthi Aarti, Diwali Aarti, Gudi Padwa Aarti, Sankashti Chaturthi Aarti, and Maghi Ganesh Jayanti Aarti.

Nearby Tourist Spots

Here are some popular attractions located near Dagdusheth Temple:

• Shaniwar Wada
• Pataleshwar Cave Temple
• Lal Mahal
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
• Empress Botanical Garden
• Sinhagad Fort
• Saras Baug
• Pune Okayama Friendship Garden
• Aga Khan Palace

Restaurants and Local Food in Dagdusheth Temple

Dagdusheth Temple offers a variety of options for dining and enjoying local cuisine in its surrounding areas, such as:

• Sujata Mastani:Known for its delectable mastani (a popular Pune-style milkshake), Sujata Mastani is a renowned local eatery located near the temple.


• Good Luck Cafe:Good Luck Cafe is a popular vegetarian restaurant located near Dagdusheth Temple. It offers a wide array of vegetarian dishes, including Maharashtrian specialities like Misal Pav, Sabudana Vada, and Maharashtrian Thali.


• Durvankur:Durvankur is a popular restaurant known for its authentic Maharashtrian thali. It offers a wide variety of traditional Maharashtrian dishes like puran poli, ukdiche modak, batata vada, and solkadi.