Dagdusheth Ganpati to Grace Replica of Kerala’s Padmanabhaswamy Temple This Ganeshotsav

Inauguration of Decorative Setup Marks Beginning of 133rd Year Celebrations by Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Public Ganpati Trust

Pune – The iconic Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati in Pune is set to mesmerize devotees this year with a magnificent replica of Kerala’s sacred Padmanabhaswamy Temple during the 133rd Ganeshotsav celebrations. The initiative, led by the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Public Ganpati Trust and Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal, was officially launched during a traditional inauguration ceremony held at the Trust’s decoration site near Hirabaug Kothi, opposite Sanas Ground.

This year’s grand theme takes inspiration from the world-renowned Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram—the capital of Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and recognized as one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes of Vishnu) in the Sri Vaishnavite tradition, this temple is famous for its spiritual significance and exquisite Dravidian architecture.

Glorious Replica to Stand 100 Feet Tall

Sharing details about the project, Trust President Sunil Rasane revealed that the replica will be approximately 120 feet long, 90 feet wide, and 100 feet tall, adorned with intricate details and spiritual symbolism. The replica will feature a five-tiered gopuram (temple tower), showcasing vibrant sculptures and depictions from Krishnaleela, Ramayana, the Saptarishis, and sacred animals like horses, elephants, and lions.

Inside the sanctum sanctorum, devotees will witness idol representations of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, alongside Lord Shiva and Parvati, Lord Krishna, and Narasimha. Above the main sanctum, in a striking octagonal chamber, will be an awe-inspiring reclining idol of Lord Padmanabha in Anantashayanam (eternal yogic sleep on the serpent Adishesha).

Architectural & Spiritual Grandeur

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is an architectural gem, combining Kerala-style and Dravidian-style temple construction. The Trust has ensured that this artistic blend is reflected authentically in their Ganeshotsav decor. The replica will also feature 30 grand pillars and over 500 sculptures of deities, sages, and divine figures. The ceiling of the sanctum will be shaped in an octagonal form and covered in golden hues, enhancing the aura of divinity.

The temple design allows devotees a clear view of the main deity from a distance, thanks to spacious and strategically designed mandap pillars. Artistic direction for the entire structure is led by Vinayak Raskar, with the mandap arrangements being managed by Kale Mandapwale.

Significance of Padmanabhaswamy and the Ritual Layout

Lord Padmanabha is a unique form of Lord Vishnu, depicted in a reclining posture on the serpent Ananta, symbolic of cosmic energy and meditative calm. According to tradition, the deity’s right hand rests upon a Shiva Lingam, flanked by Goddess Lakshmi and Bhoodevi (Mother Earth). From the lotus arising from his navel emerges Lord Brahma, representing creation.

Devotees typically view the deity through three sacred doorways:

• The first shows the head and upper body of Lord Padmanabha.
• The second reveals Lakshmi, Bhoodevi, and festive idols.
• The third offers darshan of the deity’s feet along with revered figures like Sage Markandeya.

This multi-tiered darshan experience will be mirrored in the replica, giving devotees from all over the country and abroad a chance to experience this spiritual spectacle in Pune.

A Star-Studded Inaugural Ceremony

The decorative project’s inauguration ceremony was graced by art directors Vinayak and Sarita Raskar. Trust office bearers including President Sunil Rasane, Vice Presidents Dr. Ramchandra alias Balasaheb Paranjape and Manik Chavan, Treasurer Mahesh Suryawanshi, General Secretary & MLA Hemant Rasane, Joint Secretary Amol Kedari, and Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal President Prakash Chavan were present. Trustees and representatives from several Pune temples, religious organizations, and Ganeshotsav Mandals also participated.

Tradition of Grand Decorations Continues

The Dagdusheth Trust is well-known for crafting life-size replicas of iconic Indian temples during Ganeshotsav every year, attracting millions of devotees. This year’s theme not only pays homage to the spiritual grandeur of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple but also offers an opportunity for cultural and architectural immersion right in the heart of Pune.

As the countdown to Ganeshotsav 2025 begins, the excitement is already building. The Trust expects lakhs of devotees to visit the temple and experience the majestic replica, complete with devotional ambiance, intricate carvings, and a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment.

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