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Sacred Stones, Spaces, and Stories: Ashtavinayaka Part 2

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Also known as the Shri Moreshwar Temple, the Shri Mayureshwar Mandir, situated in the tranquil village of Morgaon, approximately 65 km from the Pune district, marks the starting and ending point of the Ashtavinayak circuit.

Morgaon is the foremost centre of worship of the Ganapatya sect, which considers Ganesha as the Supreme Being. A Hindu legend relates the temple to the killing of the demon Sindhura by Ganesha. The exact date of the temple’s construction is unknown, although the Ganapatya saint Moraya Gosavi is known to have been associated with it. The temple flourished due to the patronage of the Peshwa rulers and descendants of Moraya Gosavi.

The village of Morgaon derives its name from the Marathi word for peacock, ‘mor,’ a nod to the region’s once-abundant population of these majestic birds. The temple itself is situated on the banks of the sacred Karha River, and the village is said to be laid out in the shape of a peacock, deepening the connection between the land and its presiding deity, Lord Ganesha in his Mayureshwar, or peacock-riding, form.

The origins of Shri Mayureshwar Mandir trace back to the Bahmani period, with construction believed to have occurred between the 14th and 17th centuries. The temple’s architecture is distinctive, featuring a high stone boundary wall and four minarets at each corner, giving it the appearance of a mosque from a distance, a strategic design choice to protect it during times of political upheaval. The temple flourished under the patronage of the Peshwa rulers, who considered Ganesha their family deity, and the spiritual influence of the Ganapatya saint Moraya Gosavi, who is closely associated with the temple’s history and legacy.

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The Shri Moreshwar Temple is a striking blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural influences. There are our entrance gates, with each gate facing a cardinal direction and adorned with an image of Ganesha, representing his manifestations in the four Yugas or ages. The four minarets and 50-foot-tall stone walls were built to safeguard the temple from invaders. Unusually, a large statue of Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, stands before the temple entrance, a rare sight in Ganesha temples, explained by a local legend that the Nandi statue was left there after the vehicle transporting it broke down. The sabha-mandapa or assembly hall houses 23 different idols of Ganesha, each depicting a unique form, including the eight avatars described in the Mudgala Purana. The courtyard contains two sacred trees, Shami and Bilva, associated with penance and spiritual significance. Two lamp towers or Deepmalas and a six-foot-tall mouse, Ganesha’s vahana or mount, are prominent features in the courtyard. The sanctum sanctorum, the garbhagriha, enshrines the swayambhu or self-manifested idol Lord of Ganesha as Mayureshwar, depicted with four arms, three eyes, and a trunk turned to the left, seated on a peacock and flanked by his consorts, Siddhi and Buddhi.

The most celebrated legend associated with the temple is the tale of Ganesha’s incarnation as Mayureshwar to vanquish the demon Sindhu. According to the Ganesha Purana, Sindhu was born to Chakrapani and Ugra, and by the grace of the Sun-god, was granted a bowl of amrita, the elixir of immortality. To safeguard it, Sindhu swallowed the bowl, becoming invincible and unleashing terror across the three worlds. The gods, unable to withstand his tyranny, prayed to Ganesha, who incarnated as Mayureshwar, a six-armed, white-complexioned deity riding a peacock. In a fierce battle, Ganesha defeated Sindhu’s army, slew his general Kamalasura, and ultimately cut open Sindhu’s body to empty the amrita bowl, thus killing the demon and restoring cosmic order. After this victory, Ganesha gifted his peacock mount to his brother Kartikeya, cementing his epithet as Mayureshwar or Moreshwar, aka the “Lord of the Peacock.”

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Another legend recounts how the creator-god Brahma, preserver-god Vishnu, dissolver-god Shiva, the Divine Mother Devi, and the Sun-god Surya meditated at Morgaon to understand their creator and purpose. Ganesha manifested before them as an Omkara flame, revealing his supremacy and blessing them with divine knowledge.

A further myth tells of Brahma’s penance to cleanse himself of the sin of desiring his daughter, Sarasvati. The sacred Turiya Tirtha river appeared, and Brahma carried its water in his pot to worship Ganesha at Morgaon. When he stumbled and spilt the water, it became the Karha River, which continues to flow by the temple today.

The Ganapatya saint Moraya Gosavi is deeply connected to the temple’s lore. He was a devout worshipper who travelled monthly from Chinchwad to Morgaon on foot to offer prayers. On one occasion, arriving after the temple had closed, the locks miraculously fell away, allowing him to worship Ganesha. His devotion inspired the construction of the Mangalmurti temple at Chinchwad and elevated the status of the Moreshwar temple as a premier centre of Ganapatya worship.

The temple’s daily worship schedule is meticulously observed, offering devotees multiple opportunities to participate in sacred rituals. The ritual bathing and purification of the deity, the Prakshal Puja, is conducted between 5 and 6 am, while the Shodashopachar Puja, the traditional sixteen-step ceremonial worship, happens between 7 am and 12 noon. The five-step worship, the Panchopachar Puja, takes place at 8 pm, while the Samudaik Evening Aarti, which is a communal ritual of lighting the lamp,p happens at 7:30 p,m and the nighttime aarti, the Shej Aarti, is done at 10 pm before the temple’s doors are shut for the day.

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Devotees traditionally first worship Nagna Bhairava, then Mayureshwar, and finally Sakshi Vinayaka, who is believed to be the witness to prayers offered at the temple. The people of Morgaon collectively offer food or a thali lunch to visitors during Magh Shuddh Panchami, reflecting the temple’s role as a hub of community and hospitality.

The temple becomes the focal point of grand celebrations during Ganesh Chaturthi, the Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi, and Ganesh Jayanti or Magha Shukla Chaturthi. Devotees flock to Morgaon, and a procession arrives from the Mangalmurti temple in Chinchwad, carrying the palkhi or palanquin of Ganesha. Festivities continue for more than a month, culminating on Ashvin Shukla Dashami, with fairs, processions, and communal feasting. The temple also hosts celebrations on Vijayadashami, Shukla Chaturthi, Krishna Chaturthi, and Somavati Amavasya, the new moon coinciding with a Monday.

The main idol is believed to be swayambhu or self-manifested and is said to have been consecrated twice by Brahma, once before and once after being destroyed by the demon Sindhu. Each of the four gates represents a cardinal direction and a life goal: Dharma or righteousness, Artha or wealth, Kama or desire, and Moksha or liberation. The idol is covered with layers of saffron-colored vermillion, which naturally peels off every century, revealing the original image, a phenomenon regarded as miraculous by devotees. The sabha-mandapa houses 23 different forms of Ganesha, including the eight avatars from the Mudgala Purana, making it a living gallery of Ganesha iconography. The presence of the Shami and Bilva trees in the courtyard is tied to legends of penance and spiritual awakening. The juxtaposition of Nandi and the mouse at the temple entrance is unique, blending Shaiva and Ganapatya symbolism.

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The Ashtavinayak Yatra, a pilgrimage to eight Ganesha temples around Pune, is considered incomplete unless the devotee both begins and ends the journey at Shri Mayureshwar Mandir. This cyclical pilgrimage reflects the Hindu understanding of spiritual journeys as both linear and circular, with every ending marking a new beginning.

Shri Mayureshwar Mandir in Morgaon is more than a temple; it is a living testament to the enduring power of faith, myth, and community. Its legends, rituals, and architecture encapsulate the essence of Maharashtra’s spiritual heritage, inviting devotees and seekers to embark on a journey that is as much about inner transformation as it is about external pilgrimage.

Abbott FreeStyle Libre Review

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“Awareness is the first step toward balance.”

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When you live with diabetes, you quickly learn that no two days are ever quite the same. Some mornings feel steady; others are unpredictable. For years, I managed this dance with the help of finger-prick tests: tiny, fleeting snapshots of my glucose that left me guessing about everything in between.

I had heard about the Freestyle Libre and to be honest, I resisted it for a while because while I hated the needle pricks, I also didn’t want a needle poked into my skin for two weeks. But during my trip to Europe, I decided that I will take the plunge and decided to give the sensor a try to see if it made any difference to my glucose levels and if it changed the way I understand my body.

The Freestyle Libre is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) developed by Abbott. About the size of a two-dollar coin, it’s worn on the back of your upper arm and stays in place for up to 14 days. Instead of pricking your fingers multiple times a day, you simply scan the sensor using the LibreLink app on your phone (or a reader device). Each scan instantly shows your glucose reading, a trend arrow, and a graph of your recent levels. Behind the scenes, the sensor quietly measures glucose in the interstitial fluid, the fluid between your cells, capturing readings every few minutes, day and night. When you upload your data to LibreView, the accompanying analysis platform, you see beautifully detailed charts of your glucose patterns: your highs, lows, daily rhythms, and how often you stay within your target range. It’s like turning your health data into a living, breathing story.

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Before the Libre, my glucose management felt like reading a book with half its pages missing. I knew how things started and ended, but not what happened in between. With the sensor, I could finally see the full narrative of how my body responded to meals, exercise, stress, and sleep. I started noticing gentle morning rises, calm mid-afternoons, and occasional evening peaks. These weren’t “bad numbers”, they were clues.

For those in Singapore, Abbott has an Experience Centre where you can try the sensor for SGD 10. I signed up and went down to their Experience Centre at Raffles Place. I was the only one that session, so I got a one-on-one session with the lady doing the session. She gave me a sensor, showed me how to put it on and also ran a few videos on the sensor. You can also purchase sensors there at a discount and they had a scheme that if you purchase 3 sensors within three months, you get a free sensor. It’s an excellent way to see how the device feels, how the app works, and what kind of data you’ll receive before committing to regular use.For anyone who’s ever felt unsure about CGMs, it’s a low-cost, no-pressure way to experience the technology firsthand, and to understand how empowering it can be.

I had already decided to go the subscription route, so didn’t buy from the experience centre. I subscribe to two sensors every four weeks and according to their website, if you pay for five months, the sixth month is frew. You can also opt to receive two sensors every eight weeks. The plan allows you to pause or cancel if your needs change, giving flexibility alongside the convenience.

On to my experience with the sensor. I began experimenting: adding a handful of nuts to breakfast, taking short walks after dinner, and noticing how hydration and rest made a difference. The feedback was almost immediate. A smoother curve on the graph often mirrored a calmer, steadier day.

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One of the most powerful things about using a CGM is how it connects daily choices to visible outcomes. For instance, I learned that foods I assumed were harmless sometimes caused unexpected spikes, or that meals rich in fibre and protein kept my glucose beautifully stable, and stress and lack of sleep could nudge levels up even on perfect food days. Instead of guessing, I was finally learning. The Libre didn’t judge; it simply showed patterns, and with each pattern came understanding.

Every so often, I noticed dips, usually in the early mornings or after long gaps between meals. They weren’t severe, but they were informative. The data reminded me to plan better, to carry small snacks when I’m on the go, and to listen to my body’s subtle cues before they became loud alarms. Over time, I became attuned to these rhythms. The more I observed, the more intuitive the whole process felt, like tuning in to my body’s quiet language. There’s something deeply empowering about turning invisible fluctuations into visible information. Instead of worrying about what might be happening, I could see it, and respond thoughtfully. The emotional shift was subtle but profound: I stopped thinking in terms of “good” or “bad” readings. I began thinking in terms of patterns, habits, and adjustments. That shift, from judgment to curiosity, is what changed everything. I wasn’t trying to control my body; I was learning to work with it.

From a practical perspective, the Freestyle Libre fits seamlessly into daily life. Application is quick and nearly painless, a gentle click on the back of the arm, and it’s done. The sensor stays on through showers, workouts, and sleep; after a while, you barely notice it. To scan, just hold your phone near the sensor for a second. No lancets, no fuss. The LibreLink and LibreView apps are beautifully designed. The graphs are clear, colourful, and easy to understand even for someone who isn’t data-minded.

But the sensor sometimes falls out, sometimes even as early as less than a week of usage. But Abbott Singapore has been very good about replacing faulty sensors. You just have to call them or let them know through their website, and they will send you a replacement sensor. The only caveat is that you have to send them the faulty sensor. This is not only for them to check the sensor but also to avoid people misusing this facility and scamming them.

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I didn’t expect this little patch to become a mindfulness tool, but it did. Each curve on the graph became a reminder to slow down, breathe, and be kinder to myself. Instead of frustration, I found fascination. Watching my glucose stabilise after a calm morning walk or a wholesome meal gave me a quiet sense of accomplishment.

After more than three months of using the Freestyle Libre, I can confidently say this: it’s more than a monitor; it’s a mirror, one that reflects the connection between how you live and how your body responds. It doesn’t replace intuition; it deepens it. And it turns the daily task of managing diabetes into something gentler, more insightful, and even, in its own quiet way, beautiful. The Freestyle Libre gave me not just numbers but understanding. And with understanding comes peace.

Will I continue using it in the long term? Probably yes. As of now, I can afford the price of about SGD 200 per month, but if that price point becomes expensive, I may consider using two sensors over eight weeks.

If you’re considering using it, you’ll learn more about your body in a few weeks than in years of occasional testing. It’s discreet, painless, and surprisingly easy to use. The data may surprise you, but it will empower you.

Poem: The Last Train Home

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Late at night, when the world has quieted down and the hum of the tracks becomes a lullaby for the soul, the last train home offers more than just a ride; it provides a passage into memory and comfort. The journey on this solitary carriage is steeped in reflection and nostalgia, as familiar sights and soft city lights remind us of where we come from.

The Last Train Home

In the quiet of midnight, the train pulls away,
A soft exhale of metal and dreams in the grey.
Window reflections flicker like memories in flight,
Familiar scenes whispering in the pale moonlight.

The carriage hums a tune of distant, gentle farewells,
Carrying echoes of laughter, of secret, cherished spells.
Every station a chapter, every stop a familiar name,
In the silent journey home, nothing ever feels the same.

Nostalgia drifts like smoke in the air,
Of old roads travelled, of moments rare.
The rhythmic clatter of wheels on the track
Calls forth a tender longing for what we may not get back.

Yet, in this fleeting ride through the night,
There lies a quiet comfort, a soft, guiding light.
For in the last train’s journey, beneath starlit skies,
We rediscover the places where our true heart lies.

The dark outside cradles our reflective mind,
In the gentle sway of the train, solace we find.
A final embrace before the dawn’s gentle roam—
This journey, so transient, leads us always home.

Sacred Stones, Spaces, and Stories: Ashtavinayaka Part 1

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Regular readers of this blog will know that Lord Ganesha is my ishtadev, the one whom I connect to and the first I think of in joy and sadness. He is the first whom I think of when I wake up and the last I call upon before I sleep. It’s only fitting, then, that my next instalment in this series on Hindu temples is the Ashtavinayaka temples. So let’s learn more about this form of the elephant god and this temple circuit.

Among the many sacred circuits that devotees undertake, the Ashtavinayaka pilgrimage in Maharashtra holds a unique place. The term Ashtavinayaka translates to “eight Ganeshas,” referring to the eight temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom. The Ashtavinayaka Yatra is centred around the city of Pune. The eight temples house eight distinct idols of Ganesha, the Hindu deity of unity, prosperity, learning, and the removal of obstacles. Each of these temples has its legend and history, as distinct from each other as the idols in each temple. The form of each murti of Ganesha and his trunk are distinct from one another. To complete the Ashtavinayaka Yatra, one must revisit the first temple after visiting all eight temples.

Unlike other temple circuits, the Ashtavinayaka pilgrimage is distinctive because each of these eight temples enshrines a self-manifested or Swayambhu idol of Lord Ganesha, believed to have emerged naturally rather than being sculpted by human hands. The Ashtavinayaka temples are located in different parts of Maharashtra, primarily in and around Pune, in the Pune and Raigad districts, and visiting them in a specific sequence is considered highly auspicious.

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Out of these eight temples, five are in Pune, two are in Raigad, and one is in Ahmednagar or Ahilyanagar District. The pilgrimage takes 3 days to complete and as per scriptures, must be in this specific prescribed order: Mayureshwar Temple, Morgaon, where Lord Ganesha is astride on a peacock and the starting and ending point of the pilgrimage, Siddhivinayak Temple, Siddhatek, a tranquil temple where Lord Vishnu is said to have meditated, Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali, the only Ganesha temple named after a devotee, Ballal, Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad, known for granting boons or varada, Chintamani Temple, Theur, associated with the return of the mythical Chintamani gem, Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri, carved into a mountain, and linked to Goddess Parvati, Vighnahar Temple, Ozar, dedicated to the vanquisher of obstacles, and worshipped by Lord Indra, and the Mahaganapati Temple, Ranjangaon, also known as the Great Ganesha, and connected to Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura. The pilgrimage concludes by returning to Morgaon, completing the sacred loop.

It is believed that to complete the pilgrimage, a devotee must visit all eight temples in the prescribed order and then return to the first temple to complete the spiritual circuit. This act symbolises the cycle of life and the divine presence of Lord Ganesha in all stages of human existence.

Each of these temples is associated with a unique form of Ganesha and carries its legend that adds to the richness of the pilgrimage. However, what ties them together is their collective significance as sites of divine energy and devotion.

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Several fascinating legends connect the Ashtavinayaka temples, making this pilgrimage more than just a visit to eight separate shrines. Some of the overarching myths associated with the circuit include

The Legend of Sage Gritsamada and Mayureshwar: According to Hindu mythology, Sage Gritsamada was blessed with a divine son, Ganapati, due to his intense devotion. However, a misunderstanding led to the formation of the Ganapatya sect, which exclusively worshipped Lord Ganesha. This sect played a vital role in the establishment of the Ashtavinayaka temples.

Lord Ganesha’s Battle with the Demon Sindhu: A prevalent myth speaks of the demon Sindhu, who had received a boon that he could only be defeated by an incarnation of Shiva and Parvati’s son. To destroy this menace, Ganesha took the form of Mayureshwar and, riding a peacock, vanquished the demon. This legend explains why the Mayureshwar Temple in Morgaon is considered the most important of the eight temples.

The Story of Ballal and the Self-Manifested Idol: At Ballaleshwar Temple in Pali, the legend of a young devotee named Ballal is widely told. A dedicated worshiper of Ganesha, Ballal was punished by his father for excessive devotion. However, moved by his faith, Ganesha himself appeared before Ballal, blessed him, and took residence in Pali, leading to the establishment of the temple.

Ganesha as the Conqueror of Obstacles: The story behind Vighnahar Temple in Ozar speaks of how Ganesha defeated the demon Vighnasura, who caused disruptions in religious practices. Ganesha subdued him but, on the demon’s plea, allowed him to stay, thus earning the title “Vighnahar” (Remover of Obstacles).

The Connection to the Pandavas: The Girijatmaj Temple at Lenyadri, located in a cave, is believed to be where Goddess Parvati meditated to be blessed with a son. It is also said that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata worshipped at this temple during their exile.

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The Ashtavinayaka Yatra is not just a spiritual journey but a process of self-discovery and renewal. The circuit follows a clockwise route, believed to harness cosmic energy. Devotees often complete it within 1–2 days, symbolising detachment from worldly distractions. Devotees follow specific rituals and guidelines while undertaking this pilgrimage. Modak, Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet, is offered at all temples, along with dhurva grass, red hibiscus flowers, and coconut. Devotees continuously chant prayers and the Ganapati Mantra to invoke his blessings. Pilgrims walk around each temple’s inner sanctum, often 3.5 times, echoing the cyclical nature of time. Tying a red thread at Morgaon and removing it at the final temple symbolises the shedding of sins. Many devotees observe fasts or perform special pujas during the pilgrimage and also listen to stories about Ganesha and his leelas, or divine acts, as part of the experience. Pilgrims observe fasting, avoid non-vegetarian food, and practice celibacy during the yatra to purify the mind and body.

The Ashtavinayaka circuit transcends mere temple-hopping; it is a metaphysical journey through Maharashtra’s heartland, blending devotion, mythology, and nature. Each temple’s unique narrative and the collective ritualistic voyage underscore the Hindu ethos of unity in diversity. For centuries, this pilgrimage has drawn kings, saints, and commoners alike, offering solace and strength. As you embark on this article series, each of the eight temples will reveal its distinct history, myths, and grandeur. Together, they form a mosaic of divine grace, making the Ashtavinayaka pilgrimage a truly transformative experience.

The Quest for Perfection

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Perfection is often described as flawlessness, completeness, or supreme excellence. This concept has fascinated humanity for centuries, influencing art, science, philosophy, and even daily life. While striving for perfection can inspire greatness, it can lead to unrealistic expectations, anxiety, and dissatisfaction.

What is perfection? Perfection is a multifaceted concept that varies depending on context. In mathematics, it refers to ideal numbers; in ethics, it signifies the optimal quality of being; and in aesthetics, it denotes beauty or flawlessness. Philosophically, perfectionism is tied to developing human nature to its highest potential. However, in practical terms, perfection often remains an elusive ideal, something we aspire to but rarely achieve.

Why are people obsessed with perfection? Perfectionism is deeply rooted in psychological traits and experiences. It often stems from high parental expectations, social pressure, or a desire for control. Disorders such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and atelophobia (fear of imperfection) can exacerbate perfectionist tendencies. These mental health factors drive individuals to avoid criticism or failure by striving for unattainable ideals.

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Modern culture glorifies perfection through social media, academic competition, and workplace environments. Platforms like Instagram showcase curated lives that create unrealistic comparisons. Similarly, cultures emphasising success foster a relentless pursuit of flawlessness as a measure of worth. For some individuals, perfectionism serves as a coping mechanism for past trauma or feelings of inadequacy. By striving for perfection, they seek control over their lives and validation from others.

Philosophers argue that perfectionism stems from humanity’s intrinsic desire to develop its nature fully. While this aspiration can lead to self-improvement, it often results in self-criticism when individuals fail to meet their idealised standards.

Perfectionism can be both a driving force behind achievement and a liability that hinders personal growth. On the one hand, it motivates individuals to excel; on the other hand, it fosters anxiety, procrastination, and fear of failure.

Positive aspects of perfectionism include encouraging high standards, driving innovation and creativity, and promoting discipline and focus. The negative consequences include chronic stress and burnout, procrastination due to the fear of imperfection, hampering productivity by focusing excessively on minor details, and triggering mental health issues like depression and low self-esteem.

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So what should you do when chasing perfection?

Realign Expectations: Recognise that perfection is unattainable. Reframe your goals around meaningful achievements rather than flawless outcomes. The adage “perfect is the enemy of good” highlights how striving for perfection can prevent progress.

Set Realistic Goals: Avoid setting overly ambitious targets that lead to frustration. Break tasks into manageable steps and focus on completion rather than perfection.

Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness when you make mistakes. Self-compassion helps counteract the harsh self-criticism associated with perfectionism.

Embrace Mistakes: Mistakes are opportunities for growth rather than failures. Learning from imperfections fosters resilience and adaptability.

Gain Perspective: Understand what truly matters in life. Grades or achievements may seem critical at one moment but lose significance over time. A broader perspective can help reduce stress related to perfectionist tendencies.

Seek Support: Communicate with loved ones or professionals about your struggles with perfectionism. Therapy can help reframe irrational beliefs and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

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The journey toward overcoming perfectionism requires conscious effort and mindfulness. Here are actionable steps:

Challenge Irrational Beliefs: Identify thoughts that fuel your perfectionist mindset and replace them with balanced perspectives.
Take Breaks from Social Media: Limit exposure to curated content that exacerbates feelings of inadequacy.
Adopt “Done Is Better Than Perfect”: Focus on completing tasks rather than perfecting them.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress instead of fixating on flaws.
Engage in Mindfulness Practices: Meditation can help reduce stress and cultivate acceptance.

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The quest for perfection is deeply ingrained in human nature but fraught with challenges. While striving for excellence can lead to remarkable achievements, an obsession with flawlessness often results in anxiety, dissatisfaction, and missed growth opportunities. By understanding the roots of perfectionism and adopting strategies such as self-compassion and realistic goal-setting, individuals can find the balance between ambition and contentment. Ultimately, embracing imperfection allows us to lead more fulfilling lives—ones where growth matters more than unattainable ideals.