Indore's Bada Ganpati: A Symbol Of Divinity

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The iconic and divine idol of Bada Ganpati in Indore was established by Pandit Narayan Dadhich in 1901. Taking nearly three years to complete, this grand statue of Lord Ganesha stands 25 feet tall and 14 feet wide.

The idol's construction is unique, as it incorporates all types of sacred metals, soils from holy places, waters from pilgrimages and precious materials like pearls.

It is widely believed that merely having the darshan (sight) of Bada Ganpati grants the spiritual benefits of visiting all major pilgrimage sites. Every year, the idol is ceremonially anointed four times with "Savaman" of clarified butter (ghee) and saffron-coloured vermilion (sindoor), fulfilling religious traditions initiated by Pandit Narayan Dadhich.

Devotees believe that this special offering brings immense blessings and divine satisfaction to Lord Ganesha.

The sole objective behind constructing this magnificent idol was the welfare and prosperity of all people. Devotees trust that a mere glance at Bada Ganpati can remove all sorrows and fulfil heartfelt wishes.

The sanctified location of Bada Ganpati was divinely chosen. Legend says Lord Ganesha himself appeared in Pandit Narayan's dream, guiding him to the exact spot where the idol should be installed.

A smaller, naturally-formed (Swayambhu) idol of Lord Ganesha also rests at this site, reinforcing its spiritual significance.

Bada Ganpati is celebrated as the only idol in the world where Lord Ganesha’s entire form, including the trunk curving to the left, is fully projected outward, not attached to any wall. Worshipping Ganesha with the trunk towards the left is believed to grant quicker blessings.

Over the decades, countless devotees, including national leaders and celebrities, have visited Bada Ganpati.  Notable leaders, including Chief Ministers of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, frequently pay their respects here.

The idol faces east to west, symbolically blessing the entire city of Indore. Bada Ganpati remains a timeless beacon of faith, peace and divine grace.