6.2 Story of Shree Girjatmaj Vinayaka Temple, Lenyadri

After ceremonially marrying Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati desired to have a family. She expressed her wish to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva asked Parvati to perform penance to please Lord Vinayaka.

Parvati followed Shiva's advise and receded to the silent caves in the Lenyadari Mountains. She began meditating upon the name of Lord Vinayaka.

Seasons changed cyclically. Years rolled by, but unbending Parvati continued her penance even in the toughest of conditions. Then one day, Lord Vinayaka pleased by her severe penance appeared before her and blessed her. Much to her glory, Parvati received the boon to have Lord Vinayaka Himself as her son. After this Parvati returned her home - Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.

One day Parvati sat alone in the snowy mountains while Lord Shiva was away in the deep forests performing penance. Parvati was overcome by a strong feeling of motherhood. She saw some wet mud around due to the melting of snow. She dug a sizable amount of mud and purified it by mixing saffron, clay, turmeric from her divine body. She molded the mud and shaped it into a pretty idol of a boy.

Parvati sat admiring the idol when suddenly it came to life. The boy was Lord Vinayaka and told Parvati, "Mother, as desired by you, I have come to your home as your son". This happened on the day of Bhadrapada Shudha Chaturthi.

Lord Vinayaka was named as Gunesh (meaning one whose qualities are above the three quantities of Satva, Raja and Tama). He came to be known as Girijatam meaning the aatmaj (meaning son of) of Giija.

According to the myths, Lord Ganesha spend a cheerful childhood in the hills of Lenyadri.  It is said that Ganesha lived here for more than a fifteen years. During his period he slayed many a demons. Hence this place is considered as very pious.