Chintaman Ganesh is one of the best-known Ganesha temples in Ujjain, dating from the Paramara period (11th–12th century). Ganesha is worshipped here as Chintaman — the one who removes chinta, worry — and the image is held to be self-manifested.
Ganesha is the first god invoked before any beginning, and a temple to him is where a family goes before a wedding, a venture or a journey. Chintaman — from chinta, worry — is the form people come to when they have something on their mind.
This page describes the place and its traditions. Darshan timings and rules are the temple’s own; check them on the day.
Chintaman means the jewel that takes worry away. Ganesha is the remover of obstacles, and this form carries that idea into the mind’s own troubles — the work that has stalled, the decision that will not settle, the fear that follows a person about.
The temple dates from the 11th–12th century, when the Paramaras ruled Malwa. Under that dynasty Malwa was known for both learning and building.
The temple has been repaired many times since, but it keeps its identity as an ancient Ganesha shrine.
Devotees speak of three forms of Ganesha worshipped here: Chintaman, who removes worry; Ichhaman, who fulfils wishes; and Siddhivinayak, who grants accomplishment.
Whether one takes that literally or as a way of naming what people ask of him, it explains the temple’s reputation as a place to bring a problem.
Wednesday is Ganesha’s day, and Ganesh Chaturthi is the great festival, with crowds from early morning. Many people visit before starting something important, such as new work or a business.
The temple is on the outskirts, so allow time for the journey; it is calm and suits a quiet visit. We are an independent booking service, not the temple’s office.
We do not run a separate Ganesha pooja. Our poojaris perform Rudrabhishek and other rites in Ujjain on your behalf, and booking through us is free.
Chintaman means the jewel that removes worry. Ganesha is worshipped here in exactly that form.
It dates from the Paramara period, the 11th–12th century, and has been repaired many times since.
Devotees speak of Chintaman (who removes worry), Ichhaman (who fulfils wishes) and Siddhivinayak (who grants accomplishment).
Wednesday is Ganesha’s day; Ganesh Chaturthi is the great festival, but it is also the busiest.