Badi Chaupar Ganesha Temple is located in Badi Chaupar, a bustling area in the heart of Jaipur, Rajasthan. The temple sits close to the famous Hawa Mahal and is surrounded by markets and traditional shops. It is one of the most visited and easily accessible Ganesha temples in Jaipur city. The main deity of this temple is Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god known as the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings. The idol of Ganesha is seated in a calm and peaceful posture.
The main deity of this temple is Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god known as the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings. The idol of Ganesha is seated in a calm and peaceful posture.
The temple is believed to be several hundred years old, and though exact dates are not known, it has been an important part of Jaipur’s religious and cultural life since the city’s foundation in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It has served as a daily worship place for local traders, artisans, and royal court members.
Many years ago, when the city of Jaipur was being designed and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century, special attention was given to Vastu Shastra (ancient Indian architectural science) to ensure prosperity and harmony in the new city.
As per legend, one of the royal priests had a divine dream in which Lord Ganesha appeared and said that no city or structure can thrive without first worshipping Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The deity instructed the priest to install a shrine at the heart of the city, where the energy lines crossed—this location was Badi Chaupar, one of the central squares of Jaipur.
Following this divine command, the Maharaja ordered the construction of a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha at Badi Chaupar. It was believed that this shrine would serve as a guardian temple, protecting the city and blessing its residents with wealth, health, and harmony.
As time passed, the temple became an important spiritual center for the local people, especially merchants, shopkeepers, and artisans. Before opening a new shop, signing a deal, or starting a marriage proposal, people would come to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings at this temple.
Another popular local belief says that when the idol was first placed, a miraculous event occurred—a sudden downpour followed by a clear rainbow appeared in the sky, which was seen as Ganesha’s sign of approval and blessing for Jaipur.
Even today, it is said that Badi Chaupar Ganesha keeps watch over the Pink City, guiding and protecting all those who pray with a pure heart.
The grandest celebration at this temple is Ganesh Chaturthi, which marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha. Today, the temple has lights, flowers, and colorful rangolis. Special poojas and aarti are performed, and thousands of devotees visit to offer modaks (sweet dumplings) and coconuts.
Other festivals like Diwali and Sankashti Chaturthi are also celebrated with devotion. Tuesdays are particularly crowded, as they are considered auspicious for worshiping Ganesha.
