The history of this shrine is intertwined with the eternal flame, known as the **Nandadeep**, which has been kept burning continuously inside the temple since 1892 without ever going out. The original idol was found in the nearby lake by a devotee named Dhondu Paudkar.

The Welcoming Sanctum

Unlike the fortress-like structures of other Ashtavinayaka temples, Varadvinayak is welcoming and unpretentious. The temple is 8 feet long and 8 feet broad, crowned with a distinctive dome and a golden pinnacle. The four corners of the temple base are guarded by four elephant idols. The main idol of Varadvinayak faces east, with its trunk turned to the left, and is seated harmoniously against a stone backdrop.

The legend revolves around Sage Gritsamada, a brilliant scholar who was cursed by his mother to become a demon. Devastated, he retreated to the Pushpak forest (present-day Mahad) and performed severe penance. Pleased with his unwavering devotion, Lord Ganesha appeared and granted him a boon (*varada*), promising to protect the forest. Gritsamada requested Ganesha to stay there permanently to grant the prayers of all devotees, resulting in the manifestation of Varadvinayak.

The most unique aspect of worship here is the **direct access to the Garbhagriha** (inner sanctum). Devotees are allowed to enter, touch the feet of the Lord, and offer their prayers personally, creating a deeply intimate spiritual experience. It is customary to pay respects to the eternal **Nandadeep** flame as a symbol of the light of wisdom dispelling the darkness of ignorance.

Maghi Chaturthi is celebrated with immense grandeur, drawing massive crowds from across Maharashtra. During the festival of Bhadrapada Ganeshotsav, the temple complex is illuminated, and the continuous chanting of the Atharvashirsha echoes through the surrounding forest.

Modern folklore says that because Varadvinayak is the granter of boons, any vow (*mannat*) made with a pure heart while touching the threshold of the sanctum will definitely be fulfilled. Locals believe that the lake where the idol was discovered possesses therapeutic properties, and many pilgrims sprinkle its water on their heads before entering the temple.