Adhi Vinayagar: The Only Temple In India Where Lord Ganesha's Idol Has A Human Face

Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: If asked to picture Lord Ganesha’s idol, it will always have an elephant head with big ears, a trunk, and one broken tooth. Have you ever seen a temple where the idol has a human face? The only such temple in the world is located in Thilatharpanapuri, Tamil Nadu, India.

A few kilometres from Koothanur town in the state, Adhi Vinayagar temple is famous around the world. It is believed that the idol has a human face which was Ganpati’s original face before it was replaced by the head of an elephant. Lord Ganesha is worshipped here as Nara Mukha Vinayak, which literally translates to Vinayak with the head of a man.

In Which State Lord Ganesha Is Present With a Human Face?

This temple in Tamil Nadu houses a 5-foot-tall deity featuring a Naghabharanam around his waist. It is believed to have been built in the 7th century and is considered among the oldest temples in the state.

The idol was sculpted using granite. He can be seen holding an axe that symbolises the destruction of all hurdles and desires. A modak in his hand represents his favourite food and symbolises the little joys of life in rewards. A rope carved with the idol stands for hope. It is believed to be a means by which Vinayak will rescue you from difficulties in life. The lotus attached to the idol stands for self-realisation.

How Did Lord Ganesha Get His Elephant Head?

According to legends, Lord Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati because she was longing for affection. She used clay and ghee to create an idol of her son and later brought it to life. She did it in the absence of Lord Shiva who was meditating on Mount Kailash.

When Goddess Parvati went to take a bath one day, she asked Lord Ganesha to guard the door. When Lord Shiva came to his wife, Ganpati did not allow him to enter the premises. Angry Shiva cut off his head. When Goddess Parvati made him realise the mistake he had made, Gods and Goddess gathered and suggested placing an elephant’s head instead of the human face.

Where Is Lord Ganesha’s Human Head?

According to many mythological stories, when Lord Shiva cut off Lord Ganesha’s human head, it fell into a place in Uttarakhand. The cave today is known as Patal Bhuvaneshwar.

It is believed that the cave was discovered by Adi Shankaracharya, and therefore, the idol in this cave is referred to as Adi Ganesha. Many devotees believe that Lord Shiva guards this cave in one of his forms and protects the severed head of his son.

What Is The Significance Of Elephant Head Of Ganesha?

After Lord Shiva placed the elephant's head on Lord Ganesha’s head, he was brought back to life. He was blessed with the powers of many Gods and Goddesses. Since then, he has been called the God of removing obstacles from life.

The elephant head of Lord Ganesha signifies understanding and wisdom. He is loved by millions and Ganesh Chaturthi is a special festival for all his beloved devotees.

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