Ashtavinayak (अष्टविनायक)

Ashtavinayak "Eight Ganeshas" in Sanskrit. Ganesha/Ganpati is the deity of obstacles, unity, prosperity and learning. Ashtavinayaka yatra refers to a pilgrimage to the eight Hindu temples in Maharashtra state of India that house eight distinct idols of Ganesha, in a pre-ascertained sequence. The Ashtavinayaka yatra or pilgrimage covers the eight ancient holy temples of Ganesha/Ganpati which are situated around Pune. Each of these temples has its own individual legend and history, as distinct from each other as the murtis in each temple. The form of each murti of Ganesha and His trunk are distinct from one another. However, there are other temples of eight Ganesha in various other parts of Maharashtra; the ones around Pune are more well known than the former. It is believe to be for completion of Ashtavinayak Yatra visit the first ganpati after visiting all the eight ganpati's again, to complete the yatra. Names of 8 Ganesha's are: 1. Moreshwar 2. Siddhivinayak 3. Ballaleshwar 4. Varad Vinayak 5. Chintamani 6. Girijatmaj 7. Vighnahar 8. Maha Ganapati