Idgunji (12 images)
Legend has it that once sage Valakhilya was immersed in penance at Kunjavana. But was constantly disturbed. Hence he prayed to Lord Krishna for assistance. At that moment, he came across sage Narada and pleaded to show him the way to be free from these impediments. Narada promptly asked him to ask Lord Vigneshwara for help.
Sage Valakhilya was curious as to how Lord Vigneshwara could help him. Narada then narrated a small story.
"Long ago, while Brahma was involved in the creation and shaping of the Universe, he too came across many hurdles. He asked the help of Parabrahma, who in turn asked him to worship Vigneshwara. Brahma followed this instruction, and did not find any obstacles in continuing his task. Later, Shiva, Srihari and Parvati, too started worshipping Vigneshwara before putting an end to the troubles created by Tripura, Bali and Mahishasura." "Therefore, the only way to put an end to your troubles is to worship Lord Vigneshwara", said Narada.
Likewise, Valakhilya now requested Narada to show him a proper place where here could worship lord Vigneshwara. After visiting various spots, they came to the banks of Sharavathi and were enchanted by a particular spot. Narada said the place Kunjaranya was the most appropriate place to pray Lord Vigneshwara.
Narada now narrated how the Holy Trinity-Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara had come to Kunjaranya, to observe penance for the destruction of the evil asuras. They asked Parvati to send her son Ganapathi (Vigneshwara) to the forest, to accept the prayers of various devotees. A temple was created and a throne was prepared for Vigneshwara.
The Saints and heavenly beings chanted hymns in praise of the Lord, who was standing with his arms open, holding Modaka- an offering prepared from jaggery which is the favorite food of Lord Ganapathi- in his left hand. Pleased by their devotion he granted them their wishes.
Lord Vigneshwara was so enchanted with this place that he called Narada and decided to stay permanently in that place and grant the wishes of his devotees.
Gods who had witnessed the throning of Lord Vigneshwara decided to leave behind a part of their omniscient power in the various lakes known as Thirthas. The Lord then instructed Narada that the devotees could attain their hearts desire by praying to him while dipping in the various Thirthas.
Hence, a special lake was created for the devotees to have their bath, which is known as Ganeshteerth.
Kunjaranya, where Lord Ganapathi remained, later came to be known as Idugunji.
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