Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city of historical heritage and temples, but it also has a temple called “guide of politics”. This temple is not only the center of faith of common devotees, but also has special recognition for politicians. It is said that no leader steps into the electoral field without visiting this temple. This temple is – the temple of Ganesh ji at Moti Dungri.
Why is this temple of political faith?
Not only Rajasthan, many big leaders across the country come to visit Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple in Jaipur before elections. The reason is clear – This temple is considered to be such a place of “Vighnaharta” Ganesh ji, where the true mind also removes the biggest obstacle. The leaders believe that if you are seen in this temple before election nomination or campaigning, victory is certain. It has been seen many times that big ministers, Chief Ministers, MPs, MLAs and even the party’s national presidents participate in an event by worshiping in the temple.
History of temple and story of establishment
The Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple was built in the 18th century by Raja Mado Singh I of the princely state of Jaipur. This idol of Lord Ganesha, brought from Maharashtra, was brought to Jaipur by placing it on a chariot. It is believed that the temple was established at the place where the chariot stopped. This idol is Dakshinamukhi, which is considered extremely auspicious in the scriptures.
Politics and temple association – some examples
From Ashok Gehlot to Vasundhara Raje, all the Chief Ministers have taken blessings by going to this temple.
At the time of elections, the leaders of every major party – whether they are from the BJP or the Congress – have been seen offering laddus and coconut in this temple before nomination.
Even in the visit of central leaders to Jaipur, this temple darshan is included in the program.
This tradition has now become a part of political strategy, where leaders find it mandatory to seek the blessings of Ganesha before deciding their “political destination”.
What does the recognition associated with the temple say?
There is a special belief here that if a person comes here for the first time for darshan and asks for a vow, then his wish is definitely fulfilled. This is the reason that from the common man to the minister – all come here and bow their heads. In the political corridors, it is said that if a leader ignored Ganesha in Moti Dungri, then his election journey can remain incomplete.
Every Wednesday seems to be public
Thousands of devotees come here every Wednesday. There is a special event of bhajan-kirtan and prasad distribution in the temple courtyard. At the time of elections, this crowd increases further, when the convoys of leaders come here to visit and are in the media headlines.
