Pune: Morgaon, Theur and Siddhatek Temples to Remain Shut for Visitors from May 10 for Restoration Work

Pune, 8th May 2026: Three prominent Ashtavinayak temples — Shri Mayureshwar Temple at Morgaon, Shri Chintamani Temple at Theur and Shri Siddhivinayak Temple at Siddhatek — will remain closed to devotees from May 10 to June 9 due to conservation, preservation and restoration works being undertaken under the guidance of the Archaeology Department.

The decision has been taken as part of the Ashtavinayak Development Plan, officials said.

According to the Archaeology Survey of India (ASI), the Maharashtra government has sanctioned a special fund for preservation and repair works at the Ashtavinayak temples. The Chinchwad Devasthan Trust has expressed gratitude to the state government for supporting the restoration project.

Officials said conservation and repair work is currently underway in and around the main temple structures at Morgaon, Theur and Siddhatek. The project includes restoration of the sanctum sanctorum and sabha mandap while retaining the temples’ traditional and historical architectural character through specialised stonework.

Authorities said allowing large numbers of devotees during the ongoing work could hinder the restoration process and delay completion of the project. Hence, the temples will remain temporarily shut for public darshan during the period.

The Archaeology Department had submitted a request in this regard to the Joint Charity Commissioner, Pune division. After hearing submissions from the department, temple administration, priests and local villagers, the Joint Charity Commissioner on May 7 issued orders permitting temporary closure of the temples.

Following the directive, the Board of Trustees of the Chinchwad Devasthan Trust also passed a resolution approving closure of the temples to devotees during the restoration period. Gram Sabhas are also scheduled to be held at the respective villages on May 8 to inform local residents about the decision.

Officials clarified that daily rituals, puja and religious ceremonies inside the temples will continue uninterrupted. However, devotees will not be allowed entry into the temple premises or access to physical darshan during the closure period.

Only priests, authorised officials, staff members, trustees and personnel associated with the restoration work will be permitted entry into the temple premises.

Authorities have appealed to devotees and citizens to cooperate with the temple trust, district administration, police and local authorities so that the conservation work can be completed in a planned and timely manner, ensuring long-term safety and improved facilities at the temples.