Pride of the entire Pune city is Shreemant Dagadusheth Ganapati Mandir. One of the rare temples where deity is known by the name of Bhakta. The deity of Bhagwan Ganesha was conceived by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife Lakshmibai when they lost their only son to the plague epidemic. Though the temple is a beautiful structure and boasts a rich history of over 100 years, architecture of the temple is less talked about. It is the social connect of the temple and the response of Bhagwan to every bhakta’s demand which are considered to be vital. Devotees from every part of India and the world come here to pray to Bhagwan Ganesha every year.
The temple management is actively engaged in social welfare and cultural development through Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Trust. Rich with devotees’ offerings, the trust spends liberally on social issues that range from rural development and healthcare for the underprivileged to helping small vendors, serving senior citizens, providing support to farmers, students and brick kiln workers.
Needy five cancer patients are supported every day with Rs. 25,000 and contribution of martyred soldiers is acknowledged by supporting their families. Adopting students for their studies, and so on, the list is endless. Rich Dagadushet Ganapati not only blesses devotees who bow to Him but also reaches to all those who need him through social projects. Support of Ganapati spreads financial, emotional, physical and emotional wellness and wellbeing in the society. The power of temples to bring about a paradigm shift in the society is demonstrated by Shreemant Dagadushet Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Trust.
