Prachin Ganesh Mandir is located at Injuno (also known as Injonu) village, about 19 km from Roing, in the Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh. The temple lies in a peaceful rural area surrounded by green hills, forests, and natural beauty, giving devotees a calm and spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is known for its very ancient stone idol of Lord Ganesh, which historians believe dates back to the 7th to 9th century CE (early medieval period). Though the present temple structure is simple and of recent construction, the idol itself is more than a thousand years old, making this shrine archaeologically and spiritually significant.
The presiding deity is Lord Ganesh, worshipped here in a rare and ancient form. The granite idol shows Lord Ganesh with four arms, seated in a calm posture. Along with Ganesh, Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi are also seen carved beside him.
✨ Riddhi symbolizes prosperity and material abundance, while Siddhi represents spiritual success and fulfillment.
🐭 Ganesh’s vahana (mouse) is depicted at the base of the idol. The presence of Ganesh with Riddhi and Siddhi together makes this idol rare, especially in Northeast India.
The temple architecture is simple and modest, built mainly to protect and worship the ancient idol. There are no grand towers or elaborate carvings, but the sanctum holds deep sanctity. The fine stone craftsmanship of the idol reflects early Hindu sculptural traditions and stands as the most important architectural feature of the temple.
According to local accounts, the ancient Ganesh idol was accidentally discovered in agricultural land by villagers of Injuno. Recognizing its divine nature, the villagers preserved the idol with great reverence. Idu Mishmi priests, belonging to the indigenous tribal community of the region, began performing regular worship. Over time, a small temple shrine was constructed around the idol, and the place became a respected center of worship.
The local belief says that the idol is Swayambhu, meaning self-manifested. The villagers believe that Lord Ganesh revealed himself from the earth to protect and bless the people of this region. Since then, he is regarded as the guardian deity of Injuno village, removing obstacles and granting wisdom, prosperity, and success to devotees.
The most important festival celebrated here is Ganesh Chaturthi, during which special prayers, offerings, and bhajans are performed. Devotees offer flowers, coconuts, and modak, the favorite sweet of Lord Ganesh.
Sankashti Chaturthi is observed every month with special worship. Local tribal customs blend harmoniously with traditional Hindu rituals during festivals.
