DHOLKAL GANESH TEMPLE

The Archaeological Department considers the unique and fascinating idol of Lord Ganesha in the Dholkal mountains, located amidst the dense forests of the Dantewada district in Bastar division, Chhattisgarh, as a significant historical artifact. Even today, this picturesque statue stands gracefully in harmony with nature, and its sight inspires a feeling that Lord Ganesha, with his enchanting form, still seeks to share the secrets of that special era through various mythological narratives.

According to legends, during the 11th century, the Chindak Nagvanshi rulers, aiming to protect and dominate their territory, commissioned the construction of the statue of their adored deity, Lord Ganesha, on the secluded peaks of Dholkal. The lofty height of the statue reaches around 3000 feet.

Once accompanied by temples of both Goddess and Lord Surya, only the statue of Lord Ganesha remains now, with remnants of the Sun God's temple still visible on these mountains. It is said that the first rays of the sun used to illuminate this temple, illuminating the entire region. The height of the Sun God's temple is slightly taller than the statue of Lord Ganesha.

According to local folklore, the unique representation of Lord Ganesha with an elephant trunk, combined with the fierce deity Parashuram's presence, signifies a significant battle between the two. Let's delve into the ancient scriptures to learn more about this intense encounter between Lord Parashuram and Lord Ganesha.

The Brahmavaivarta Purana validates that once Lord Parashuram desired to see his beloved deity, Lord Bhole Shankar, and set out for Kailash. Meanwhile, Lord Shiva was narrating the Ramayana to his consort, Goddess Parvati. To ensure that no disturbance occurred during this storytelling, Lord Shiva entrusted his divine trident to Lord Ganesha to guard the door and not allow anyone inside. Lord Ganesha dutifully followed his father's command.

However, as Lord Parashuram reached Kailash, he was stopped at the door by the young and unyielding boy. Infuriated, Lord Parashuram questioned how this boy could be Lord Shiva's son with an elephant head on a human body. A heated argument ensued between them, and Lord Parashuram attempted to enter forcefully.

In the ensuing clash, Lord Ganesha's tusk was broken by Lord Parashuram's axe. This incident led to Lord Ganesha acquiring another name, Ekadanta, meaning "One-Tusked." Eventually, Goddess Parvati intervened, recognizing both deities' significance, and a truce was established.

To commemorate this legendary encounter, the Rajas of Chindak constructed a temple for Lord Ganesha on the mountain peaks of Dholkal. Today, the region's tribal communities consider the female priestess of Dholkat (Dholkal) as their divine representative, continuing their ancestral worship of Lord Ganesha in traditional ways.

During the Magh month (January-February), a grand fair is organized annually to honor Lord Ganesha, attracting many visitors to the region. As the popularity of trekking increases, it is essential to ensure proper safety measures and local guides' assistance while exploring this region.

As mentioned earlier, this site gained international attention only a few years ago, and it is crucial for us to collaborate and enhance awareness about its historical significance for its continued preservation and celebration.