Located in the heart of Pune, the Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple is one of the city’s most respected and frequently visited places of worship. Devotees visit the temple throughout the year for darshan, prayers and a sense of calm amid the city’s busy surroundings.
Here’s a simple and complete guide to its history, daily timings, rituals and how to reach the temple:-
A Well-Known Temple in the Middle of the City
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Surrounded by crowded streets, shops and constant traffic, the Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple stands quietly yet firmly in Pune’s daily life. It is not a large complex, but it holds deep emotional and spiritual value for the people of the city.
On regular days, the visit is quick and peaceful—remove your shoes, stand in line for a few minutes and offer your prayers. During Ganeshotsav, however, the atmosphere changes completely. The idol is beautifully decorated, crowds increase, and the entire area feels filled with devotion and celebration.
Why It Is Called Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati
The temple is named after Dagadusheth Halwai, a well-known sweetmaker and trader in Pune during the late 19th century. He and his wife, Lakshmibai, were devoted followers of Lord Ganesha.
After losing their only son during a plague outbreak, the couple found strength in their faith. They installed a Ganapati idol and began worshipping it daily. Over time, people started referring to the deity by Dagadusheth’s name. What began as a private act of devotion slowly became a shared place of prayer for the entire city.
History and Significance of the Temple
The rise of the Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple is closely linked to Pune’s cultural and social history. During India’s freedom movement, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak promoted public Ganesh celebrations to bring people together beyond caste and class.
Dagadusheth Ganapati soon became a central figure in these public celebrations. From a personal shrine, the temple evolved into an important public institution. Today, it is managed by the Shri Dagadusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganapati Trust, which is also involved in social welfare work such as education, healthcare and community support.
Travel Tips for Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple
Visit early in the morning if you want a peaceful darshan and shorter queues.
Avoid peak hours in the evening and during Ganesh Chaturthi, when crowds are very heavy.
Wear modest and comfortable clothes, as this is an active place of worship.
Carry minimal belongings – bags may be checked during busy hours.
Use public transport or cabs, as parking near the temple is limited.
Follow temple rules strictly, including photography restrictions inside.
Keep extra time in hand during festivals, as darshan can take longer than usual.
Stay hydrated, especially if visiting in summer, but finish water before entering.
Visit nearby attractions like Tulshibaug and Shaniwar Wada after darshan.
Best Time to Visit Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple
The temple remains open throughout the year and welcomes devotees daily.
Ganesh Chaturthi is the most vibrant time to visit, though it also brings very large crowds.
For a calmer experience, early mornings on regular days are ideal.
The months from October to February offer pleasant weather, making the visit more comfortable.
Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple Darshan Timings
Darshan is available for most of the day, with short breaks during rituals.
General Darshan Timings:
5:30 am to 11:00 pm (with brief pauses during aartis)
Daily Rituals and Aartis:
6:00 am – 7:15 am: Abhishek and Shringar
7:30 am – 7:45 am: Suprabhatam Aarti
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm: Naivedyam Aarti
3:00 pm – 3:15 pm: Madhyana Aarti
8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Mahamangal Aarti
10:30 pm – 10:45 pm: Shejarti
Darshan resumes between rituals and continues till late evening. There is no entry fee for devotees.
How to Reach Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple
By Air: Pune International Airport is about 10 km away
By Train: Pune Railway Station is approximately 3 km from the temple
By Road: The temple is centrally located and easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi or local bus
A visit to the Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple may be brief, but the sense of calm and devotion it leaves behind often lingers long after. Set amid Pune’s everyday bustle, the temple offers a moment of quiet reflection, blending faith, history, and community spirit in one space. Whether you come seeking blessings, cultural insight, or simply a pause from the city’s pace, this iconic shrine remains an experience that stays with you.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)
