Pune's iconic Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple has been officially recognised for achieving the highest annual footfall among Ganesh temples across the globe. The temple, a spiritual epicentre in Maharashtra, received two prestigious certificates on November 29, 2025, honouring this remarkable feat.
A Magnet for Millions: The Staggering Visitor Numbers
According to temple treasurer Mahesh Suryawanshi, the devotion of millions powers this record. The temple witnesses a steady stream of 35,000 to 40,000 visitors daily, which swells to 50,000-60,000 on a weekly basis. The pinnacle is reached on Ganesh Chaturthi, attracting a staggering 2 lakh devotees in a single day.
The most awe-inspiring statistic is the congregation during the ten-day Ganeshotsav festival. Suryawanshi revealed that nearly 2 crore (20 million) people visit the temple in this short span. The temple's appeal is international, drawing close to 700 foreign nationals every year. "Devotion and the temple's extensive social work are the primary drivers behind this massive footfall," Suryawanshi emphasised.
Global Recognition and Historical Legacy
The temple's extraordinary popularity was formally acknowledged by two record-keeping bodies. It received certificates from the Winners Book of World Records and the Universe Book of World Records. These organisations are known for certifying exceptional achievements, with a significant focus on Indian talents and institutions.
The temple's significance is deeply rooted in history. Suryawanshi highlighted its association with Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak's first public Ganeshotsav in 1893. This historical connection has cemented its status as a cornerstone of the public festival's tradition in Maharashtra.
Blending Devotion with Modern Amenities and Social Service
Despite challenges like traffic congestion and limited parking in the bustling Budhwar Peth area, devotees throng the temple in unwavering numbers. To manage the crowds efficiently, the trust has implemented several facilities:
- VIP/Tatkal entry priced at ₹100 for quicker access.
- Comprehensive CCTV surveillance, scanners, and 24x7 monitoring for security.
- Convenient baggage counters and footwear stands.
- Digital services like online Tatkal booking, virtual darshan, digital coconut offerings, and name-recitation during poojas.
Two Public Relations Officers (PROs) are specifically tasked with assisting foreign tourists. "This represents the hospitality of our country, not just the temple," Suryawanshi noted, praising the efficient use of the temple's limited space.
The temple's commitment extends far beyond spiritual services. Its philanthropic arm runs a wide array of social welfare programs:
- Operating 12 free ambulances.
- Providing food for 32,000 patients at Sassoon Hospital.
- Maintaining an NICU and offering 90% subsidised medical procedures.
- Conducting cataract surgeries and distributing hearing aids.
- Running five maternity wards along with visitor restrooms and kitchens.
For transparency, all rituals and welfare activities are publicly broadcast. Donations of gold and silver are utilised to craft ornaments for the revered idol. Looking ahead, the trust is executing a 25-year plan in collaboration with police and civic bodies to systematically address persistent issues of traffic, sanitation, and road management around the temple precincts.
