Siddhivinayak of Siddhatek

On the northern bank of the Bhima River, in Ahmednagar district, stands the temple of Siddhivinayak — the second of the Ashtavinayak, and the only one among the eight where the deity's trunk turns to the right rather than the left. It was here that Lord Vishnu himself came seeking the strength to overcome two demons who had defeated him once already.

The Demons Born of Creation

At the very beginning of creation, as Brahma emerged from the lotus rising out of Vishnu's navel to begin shaping the universe, two demons, Madhu and Kaitabha, rose up as well and set out to disrupt his work. Their assault forced Vishnu to wake from his yogic sleep and confront them directly — but try as he might, he could not defeat them.

The Forgotten Invocation

It was Lord Shiva who revealed to Vishnu what had gone wrong: before entering any great undertaking, Shree Ganesh must be invoked first. Realizing his error, Vishnu came to this place beside the Bhima and performed rigorous penance, chanting "Om Sri Ganeshaya Namah." Pleased by his devotion and humility, Shree Ganesh granted Vishnu the power he needed, and Madhu and Kaitabha were defeated.

The Giver of Siddhi

Because it was here that Vishnu received siddhi — accomplishment and spiritual power — through Shree Ganesh's grace, this form came to be known as Siddhivinayak, the Vinayak who grants siddhi. Devotees still travel to Siddhatek believing that the same grace that armed Vishnu for his victory is available to anyone who approaches with true devotion.

A Mark That Sets It Apart

Among all eight Ashtavinayak shrines, the idol at Siddhatek is unique: his trunk curves to the right rather than the left, a form traditionally regarded as more demanding in its worship but especially potent in the fulfillment of sincere prayer.