Over time, the site was renovated and became a dedicated temple for Lord Mahaganapathi.Lord Ganesha, the beloved son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is one of the most widely revered deities in Hinduism. In Kerala, Ganapathy worship has been prominent since ancient times, with all auspicious occasions and temple rituals typically beginning with a Ganapathy Homam or the symbolic breaking of a coconut in front of the deity.
Ganesha, the remover of obstacles (Vighneswara), is invoked at the beginning of all endeavors, revered as the Lord of Knowledge (Vinayaka), and associated with wisdom (Buddhi) and success (Siddhi).
Lord Ganapathi is depicted with four arms holding an axe to sever worldly attachments, a rope to pull devotees closer to the divine truth, a rice ball symbolizing the sweet rewards of spiritual practice, and a hand offering blessings. His many names reflect his various aspects: Ekadanta (one-tusked), Heramba (protector), Lambodara (guardian of all worlds), and Surpakarna (compassionate giver of knowledge).
The temple's present sanctum sanctorum was designed by renowned filmmaker Sri Rajeev Anchal and was consecrated by Kappil Sri Balakrishnan Nair in 1984. In 2011, a Devaprasnam conducted by the eminent astrologer Dr. Udayakumar from Thrikkunnapuzha revealed the need for specific remedial actions. Based on his recommendations, temple architect Sri A.V. Shivan of Vasthu Gurukulam, Aranmula, proposed a complete structural redesign aligned with traditional Vastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra principles.
The Devaprasnam recommended the construction of a new Nagathara outside the sanctum and installation of the idols of Nagaraja, Nagayakshi, and Balanagam. It also suggested building an Aanakottil, Chuttumathil, Alankaragopuram, Manikkinar, Thidappalli, and a Devaswom Office. These efforts were divided into two phases.
In the first phase, the sanctum was reconstructed using Krishnashila and adorned with hundreds of intricate carvings of mythological figures. The Gopuram was crafted from teakwood and inlaid with copper and bronze. The idol of Mahaganapathi was installed following the sacred Shadadhara Prathishta rituals. Inside the sanctum, the Lord is represented as Gajasunu and Vakrathunda, beneath a golden dome with four hooded serpents facing the cardinal directions. The sanctum walls are adorned with carvings of Dwarapalakas.
The second phase includes constructing the Namaskara Mandapam, an ornate Alankaragopuram with a treasury, Chuttuvilakku, Thidappalli, and renovation of the temple courtyard. The estimated cost of the full renovation is approximately one crore rupees.
Sree Mahaganapathi Temple stands today not just as a place of worship, but as a testament to cultural revival, community devotion, and adherence to ancient spiritual architecture.
Special Festivals at Sree Mahaganapathi Temple
The temple celebrates several spiritually significant festivals with devotion, rituals, and community participation. Among these, the following festivals hold a special place in the hearts of devotees:
Meena Chaturthi Maholsavam & Mahaganapathi Homam
Celebrated in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March–April), this festival coincides with Chaturthi tithi, a sacred day for Lord Ganesha. Special poojas and Mahaganapathi Homam are performed, invoking the Lord’s blessings to remove obstacles and grant knowledge and prosperity. Devotees throng the temple for darshan, offerings, and participation in homam rituals, accompanied by traditional music and chants.
Vrischika Chirappu (Mandala Season Festival)
Observed during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November–December), this is a 41-day-long special observance. It aligns with the Mandala season, known for rigorous spiritual discipline and daily temple worship. Each day during this period is marked with poojas, lamp offerings, devotional bhajans, and Ganapathy Archana, attracting devotees from surrounding regions who seek spiritual elevation and fulfillment.
Pratishta Maholsavam
Annual Consecration Festival or Pratishta Maholsavam is held on the Aswathi star day in the month of Meenam. This commemorates the original installation of the Mahaganapathi idol. Celebrated with grandeur, the festival includes special abhishekams, alankaram, cultural programs, annadanam, and processions. It reflects both the temple’s spiritual importance and its cultural vitality in the Elanthoor region.
Contact Address: Sree Maha Ganapathi Temple, Elanthoor, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689643, India
Phone Number: 097470 07818
