Kasaba Ganapati Temple

Kasba Ganesh Temple is the oldest temple in Pune dating back to the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In the year 1630 AD, the queen Jijabai Bhosale arrived in Pune with her son Shivaji. Young Shivaji, who was aged only 12, was disturbed by the pathetic plight of the mavals. Shivaji vowed to liberate the mavals from the Mughals. At the same time, an idol of Lord Ganesh was found near the house of Vinayak Thakar, who used to reside close to the residence of the queen, Jijabai Bhosle. Jijabai perceived this as an auspicious moment and promptly built a temple, which is today known as the famous Shri Kasba Ganpati Mandir. Kasba Ganapati is the presiding deity i.e. Gramdaivat of Pune.

The Ganesha idol is natural formation i.e. Swayambhu. Kasba Ganapati Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal was established in 1983. It is the most revered Ganesha of the city. The idol was installed in the temple by Jijamata herself, 400 years ago.

The mandal uses Ashtagandha instead of Gulal, as Gulal is hazardous to health. A woman's day is celebrated by the Mandal every year. On this day, all the activities like Pooja, Arti, Abhisheka and other activities are performed by female volunteers. The Mandal also takes part in difference social activities.

The Mandal has helped the victims during the earthquake in Gujarat in by sending a team of volunteers. Blood donations camp were held last year, as there was shortage of blood in the city due to Swine flue cases. Helwake village was adopted by the temple, which was hit by the flood.The Mandal also adopts students, who have financially weak background.