Dholya Ganpati History: Wai is an ancient city. During the Mahabharata period it was known as the 'Viraat Nagri' and the city is also known as the 'City of Temples' due to the numerous temples located on the banks of the Krishna River. Wai has seven ghats on the banks of the Krishna River, making the city also known as the 'South Kashi'.(Photo Courtesy – Social Media)
Thinking of going to 'Kainchi Dham' after watching 'Hanuman Ansh'? Then read the entire Travel Guide first
Mahaganapati temple or Dhola Ganapati temple is located here. The Mahaganapati temple is situated on the Ganpati Ali Ghat in Wai. In front of this temple is the Kashi Vishweshwar temple. This huge idol of Lord Ganesha is carved from the same black stone, the same stone used to make the Nandi idol in the Kashi Vishweshwar temple. It is said that this temple was built in 1762 by Shri Ganapatirao Bhikaji Pasadeh. This idol was consecrated in 1691 i.e. 1769 on Vaishakh Shukla Paksha Trayodashi. It is said that it took about 10 years to build this magnificent temple and besides this, an expenditure of Rs.15 lakhs was also spent.
Among these temples situated on the banks of river Krishna, the most popular temple in Wai is the Dhola Ganapati Temple. The idol is 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. 'Dholya' in Marathi means huge or thick, hence it is called 'Dholya'. The idol of Ganesha is in a sitting position and looks very happy and positive. Meanwhile, there is also a perception that this idol is getting smaller.
Parelcha Raja: Mahadiviya Murti and social welfare activities, King History of Parel
A distinctive feature of this temple is the 'fish-like' shape at the back of the temple. It is designed to protect the temple from the floods of Krishna river. The fish-like shape at the back of the temple reduces the pressure on the temple by dividing the flow of water, thereby protecting the temple from flooding. Many locals in Wai strongly believe that any wish or prayer or vow made in this temple is guaranteed to be fulfilled. Do visit here if you visit Wai.
