Thread on Ashtavinayaka/अष्टविनायक (8 Dham of Shri Ganesh ji in Maharashtra):
Each place has distinct historical significance & each Ganesh Murthi is in different form.
This Ahstvinayak Dham yatra is well known in Maharashtra but not outside bcz of the
incompetence of the governments.
This has all the potential to attract 100 times more pilgrims but it's completely IGNORED.
The Ganpati idols present in these temples are self-existent & are still in the same condition as they were found, nobody knows when !
Some of the temple were restored by the Peshwas & ignored thereafter.
All temples r situated in small villages with decent accommodation facility
One can also opt to stay in Pune as these all places are very much around it & can be covered within 2-3 days only.
It's believed that it's important to follow a particular sequence to complete this yatra. Also, u must revisit the first Ganpati after visiting all Ashtavinayakas.
Don't know what's stopping govt from creating a Ashtavinayak corridor, connecting all places with good road, building temple complexes with better facilities !
We need to understand the potential of Spiritual tourism in India.