Bringing Ashtavinayak Home: The Mehta Family’s Devotional Artistry for Ganeshotsav
The arrival of Ganeshotsav is a symbol of faith and devotion on one hand and at the same time it is a confluence of love and art for Bappa. Artists dedicate their art to Bappa these days. Similarly, the Mehta family of Kandivali Lokhandwala in Mumbai has prepared a replica of Ashtavinayak at home through their art.
Krunal Mehta, who works in a private bank, told that this time he has kept the main idol of Siddhivinayak as a replica and has also made the replica of every temple of Ashtavinayak Ganapati so that devotees can have darshan of all Ashtavinayak along with Siddhivinayak.
The Mehta family, known for creating a new theme for Ganesh Darbar each year for the past two decades, visited all the Ashtavinayak temples this time, sketched them, and personally crafted the symbols of each temple. After nearly a month of dedicated effort, all the temples began to resemble the Ashtavinayak temples. Not only were the exteriors replicated, but the idols placed inside were identical to those found in the original temples. Additionally, soil from each temple’s vicinity was brought and kept with them to carry the same energy to this space.
The Mehta family believes that Lord Ganesha has blessed them with His constant presence. Over the years, they have collected around two hundred Ganesha idols from both India and abroad, all of which are beautifully displayed. This year, the stunning recreation of the Siddhivinayak and Ashtavinayak temples stands out, offering a mesmerizing sight that one simply can’t get enough of.
The Ashtavinayak temples are highly respected in Maharashtra, with countless devotees undertaking a pilgrimage to visit them each year. These temples are considered self-manifested, with their origins rooted in ancient legends. The Mehta family shares that this year’s theme was chosen so that those unable to visit the Ashtavinayak temples in person can experience their darshan right here at their home.
