MUMBAI – Devotees planning a spiritual visit to one of India’s most revered shrines will need to reschedule their plans next week. The iconic Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple in Mumbai’s Prabhadevi area will remain closed to the public for five days, starting Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
According to reports verified by Lokmaha News, the closure is necessitated by the traditional Sindoor Lepan (vermilion coating) ceremony, a significant ritual dedicated to the temple’s presiding deity.
Why is the Siddhivinayak Temple Closed?
The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple Trust has officially announced that the pause in darshan (viewing of the deity) is required for the Sindoor Lepan Vidhi. This is an intricate and sacred process where the idol of Lord Ganesha is re-coated with sindoor (vermilion). Due to the delicate nature of this ritual, public access is restricted to ensure the sanctity and safety of the idol.
This periodic maintenance is a standard tradition at the temple, ensuring the idol remains preserved in its traditional form. The Siddhivinayak Temple closed period allows priests to perform these duties without interruption.
Key Dates and Reopening Schedule
For global travelers and local devotees alike, it is crucial to note the specific timings to avoid inconvenience. Lokmaha News provides the detailed schedule below:
- Closure Begins: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 (8:00 PM onwards)
- Temple Remains Closed: January 8, 9, 10, and 11, 2025.
- Reopening Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025.
On the reopening day, the temple will not open at its usual early morning hour. Instead, the darshan will resume at 1:00 PM on January 12 following the conclusion of the Maha Puja (grand prayer) and the Naivedya offering.
The Shobha Yatra Procession
Before the temple doors open to the general public on Sunday, a ceremonial event known as the Shobha Yatra will take place. This religious procession marks the completion of the Sindoor Lepan ritual. According to temple authorities speaking to Lokmaha News, the deity will be ready to bless devotees only after these concluding ceremonies are finalized.
Advisory for Devotees
The Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the wealthiest and most visited temples in India, often attracting thousands of visitors daily. The administration has urged devotees to take note of this schedule to prevent overcrowding outside the premises during the closure dates.
While physical visits are suspended, devotees are encouraged to utilize digital platforms for prayers during this period. Normal operations are expected to resume fully by the afternoon of January 12.
For further updates on religious events and Mumbai city news, stay tuned to Lokmaha News.
