Kesari Wada Ganpati — Attraction in Pune

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A Divine Experience at Kesari Wada Ganpati, Pune

Visiting Kesari Wada Ganpati in Pune was a truly enriching and spiritual experience. Located in the historic and culturally rich Kesari Wada, this Ganpati temple not only offers a divine atmosphere but also connects you to a significant part of Pune's heritage.

Historical Significance: Kesari Wada, which once served as the residence of the great Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, is an iconic landmark in Pune. The place is steeped in history, being the site where the first public Ganeshotsav was celebrated by Tilak to unite people during the freedom struggle. The Ganpati idol here symbolizes the very essence of Maharashtra's rich traditions and its spirit of unity. When you step into Kesari Wada, you are not just visiting a temple but are also taking a step back in time, immersing yourself in the legacy of one of India’s greatest freedom fighters.

Architecture and Ambiance: The temple, though modest in size, is beautifully maintained. The idol of Lord Ganesha is elegant and exudes serenity, making it a perfect place for worship and contemplation. The surrounding architecture, with its old-world charm, adds to the spiritual ambiance. The intricate designs and the peaceful atmosphere within Kesari Wada make it a perfect place to spend some time in quiet reflection.

Spiritual Experience: The aarti (prayer) at Kesari Wada Ganpati is an experience in itself. The rhythmic chanting, the fragrance of incense, and the sound of the bell together create an atmosphere charged with devotion. Participating in the aarti fills you with a deep sense of peace and connection with the divine. The temple is often visited by devotees who come to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The spiritual energy of this place is palpable, making it a must-visit for those seeking solace and blessings.

Festivals and Celebrations: Visiting during Ganeshotsav is a completely different experience. The entire Wada is adorned with lights and decorations, and the festive atmosphere is contagious. The devotion of the people, the beautifully decorated idol, and the cultural programs held during this period make it an unforgettable experience. It is a living testament to Lokmanya Tilak’s vision of unity and cultural pride.

Accessibility and Surroundings: Located in the heart of Pune, Kesari Wada is easily accessible by public transport and is close to several other historical landmarks. Whether you are a local or a tourist, it is an essential stop in your Pune itinerary. The surrounding area is vibrant, with several eateries and shops that offer a taste of Pune’s local flavor.

Overall Impression: In conclusion, Kesari Wada Ganpati is not just a temple; it is a symbol of Pune’s rich cultural heritage and the spirit of unity that binds its people. Whether you are here to seek blessings, connect with history, or simply soak in the peaceful ambiance, Kesari Wada Ganpati offers a truly unique and memorable experience. I highly recommend visiting this historic and spiritual gem in Pune for anyone looking to experience the divine and the...

Kesari Wada previously known as Gaikwad Wada, located at Narayan Peth in Pune at a distance of 2kms from the city centre is a historical monument. Built by Gaikwad Sarkar, the wada was the residence of Sayajirao Gaikwad, the prince of Baroda. In 1905 Bal Gangadhar Tilak bought it from Sayajirao Gaikwada and started his famous Kesari and Marati newspaper. Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak, the great freedom fighter and social reformer stayed here for a long time (1905 to till his death 1920).

The monument houses a small museum inaugurated by Shrimati Soniya Gandhi, the then Congress President of India on 22nd of January 1999 and a Library founded by Lokmanya Tilak on the 1st of August 1912 for his newspapers Kesari and Maratha. The museum on the ground floor consists of the first Indian National flag unfurl by Madam Cama, offices of Kesari and Maratha newspapers, mementos of Tilak such as his clothes, books, watch ,his writing desk, genealogical table ,replica of Tilak’s study room and cell in Mandalay Jail,orginal letters and many documents. Library on the second floor houses more than 50,000 books including the books written by Professor Jinsiwale, Lokhitwadi and other up to date intellectuals. The first and second floors of the monument is now used as the branch offices of the Bank of Maharashtra and the third floor houses the Kesari-maratha Trust Office.

The Wada that can be seen at present is a renovated one, but its huge wooden main entrance is still the original one. The entrance doors are carved with the figures of roaring ‘kesaris ‘(sanskrit word for lion). The hall well known as Lokmanya Sabhagriha found on the right side of Wada has been used for conducting various programmes. While moving across the open ground one can found a Bronze statue of Lokmanya Tilak at the back of a beautiful gold plated Ganesh idol. The walls on both sides have beautiful carvings, which shows Tilak initiating the celebrations of the Ganesh festival and Shivjayanti Festival. The open ground of the Kesari Wada has been used for social gatherings, lectures and meetings during the Ganesh festival in pre independence era. Tilak started the annual Ganesh festival at the courtyard with the aim of bringing people together and train them for the freedom struggle. At present during the Ganesh festival many cultural programmes like music concerts, lectures and competitions are conducted. Large number of visitors from whole over the country will gathered here to attend the festival. The Omkareshwar Temple and the Modi Ganesh Temple are the nearby attractions.

The museum and library of Kesari wada opens from 10 A. M. to 01 P. M. and again from 03 P. M. to 06 P. M. on all days....

All about the Kesari Wada Ganpati The Kesari Wada Ganpati is the 5th Manacha Ganapati of Pune city. The temple sees a heavy footfall of devotees visiting the Mandal every year, especially during Ganeshotsav.

The Kesari Wada, built by the Gaikwads of Pune, is a spacious place with a simple yet beautiful idol of Lord Ganesha. There are two idols of Ganesha- one is permanently placed there while the other one is brought during the 10-day Ganapati festival every year.

The idol of Lord Ganesha at the Kesari Wada is taken for immersion from the palanquin and immersed near the Kelkar road canal.

#Trivia: No Ganesh Mandal that participates in mirvunk can legally do immersion of the idol of Lord Ganesha before Manache Ganapati.

Various cultural festivals and programs are organised during these days. The hall at Kesari Wada- Lokmanya Sabhagruha hosts these events.

History of Kesari Wada Ganpati Pune The urge to unite the nation against the British and integrate the actions towards the Indian freedom struggle, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak began the sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav at the Kesari Wada.

Initially, in 1894, the Ganpati Mandal was erected at Vinchurkar Wada, which is at Kumthekar road, the residence of the Tilaks. In 1905, the idol was brought to its present location at Kesari Wada.

#Trivia: The Kesari Wada was initially known as Gaikwad Wada.

The Kesari Wada still holds a small museum dedicated to the memory of Lokmanya Tilak and commemorates his contribution to the freedom struggle. His study desk, the small library compiled by him, and other mementoes of Tilak are well-preserved at the Wada.

#Trivia: Tilak began his two well-known newspapers, Kesari and Maratha, from the...