Panchamukhi Ganesha, the name translates to 5 faced Ganesha. The temple is built in ashram premises run by Vishwakarma committee known by the name Sathyashraya Kuteera. As you cross the first gate you will come across a rectangular pool filled with water. You can catch the reflection of the towering Ganesha image in this water. Have a look at the capture I got of the tower with its reflection in water, all in one frame.
The gopuram, main tower of the temple has 4 complete statues of seated Ganesha facing 4 directions and the 5th Ganesha, just the head, placed on top of these 4 Ganesha statues faces the east. Because of this unique form the temple is also called as Mahameru Panchamukha Ganesha Temple. This 30ft tall image of Lord Ganesha was given a gold coat in 2007.
Once you enter the premises of Panchamukhi Ganesha Temple you will find it hard to believe the extremely busy Bangalore-Mysore highway is just a few 100m away. Only thing that struck me sadly was the place doesn't have a single tree. The entire area is covered with concrete and granite slabs. There is a good design of water moat going around the temple. Unfortunately that is dry now. During summers due to scarcity of water this moat is not refilled with water.
Interiors of the Temple
Stepping inside the temple you will find a 6ft idol of Panchamukhi Ganesha made of black stone placed on a pedestal. Interiors of Panchmukhi Ganesha Temple is very simple with hardly any sculptures like the ones you find in old temples. The flooring laid with granite slabs. Ceiling has some simple designs. All along the cornice there are 32 colorful images of Lord Ganesha in different forms. It is very quiet and peaceful inside, ideal for meditation.
The idol was beautifully adorned with red colored silk cloth and fresh jasmine garlands. The last bit of incense sticks were glowing indicating the puja just got over. Since the pujari wasn’t around I helped myself to some spoonful of chranamrit.
Later I did a pradakshina around the temple. Panchamukhi Ganesha Temple has doors on all 4 sides. Three of them are shut and only the one that faces the east is open daily. But on special occasion and festivals all 4 doors are open to public. I have here the pictures of all 4 statues of seated Ganesha statues on the tower of the temple.
