Mota Ganesh Temple, also known as Boro Ganesh /Big Ganesh Temple, is located in the Posta–Burrabazar area of North Kolkata, one of the oldest and busiest trading zones of the city.
Mota Ganesh Temple is believed to be around 200–300 years old. It is considered one of the oldest Ganesh temples in North Kolkata, established during the early development of Burrabazar as a major trading hub
The presiding deity is Lord Ganesha, worshipped here as Mota Ganesh or Boro Ganesh, meaning “Big Ganesh.” The name comes from the large-sized idol and the belief in the powerful blessings of the deity. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as:
Vighnaharta – Remover of obstacles
Siddhivinayaka – Giver of success
God of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings
The temple, is especially revered by businessmen, traders, students, and families.
The temple follows a simple traditional Hindu architectural style. It is modest in size, but spiritually very powerful. The sanctum houses a large Ganesh idol, which is the main attraction of the temple. The structure focuses more on devotion than ornamentation. During festivals, the temple is decorated with flowers, lamps, and lights, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Burrabazar has been a center of trade for centuries. Traders settling in this area traditionally worshipped Lord Ganesha before starting businesses, journeys, or important financial activities. Over time, this shrine became a central place of worship for the local trading community. The temple’s popularity grew through generations due to strong faith and repeated experiences of fulfilled prayers.
According to long-standing oral tradition, traders in the Posta and Burrabazar area once faced repeated obstacles such as business losses, disputes, and delays. Elders believed that proper worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, was required.
A large Ganesh idol was installed at this location with deep devotion. After this, traders began to experience improvement in business, stability, and prosperity. Because of the size of the idol and the powerful blessings believed to be received here, the deity came to be known as Mota Ganesh.
Since then, devotees believe that Lord Ganesh of Posta Dham quickly responds to sincere prayers, especially related to business growth, financial stability, removal of obstacles, and success in new ventures. This belief continues strongly even today.
Ganesh Chaturthi is the most important festival celebrated at Mota Ganesh Temple, drawing large numbers of devotees for special abhishekam, alankaram, and offerings such as modak and laddoo. Sankashti Chaturthi, observed every month, is also significant, especially for devotees seeking relief from obstacles and problems. Vinayaka Chaturthi days see special prayers and increased footfall. During Diwali and Lakshmi Puja, traders offer special worship to Lord Ganesh for prosperity and success. On all festival days, the temple remains lively with devotion, lamps, flowers, and continuous prayers.
