Shree Chintamani Vinayaka Temple in Theur, located at the tranquil confluence of the Mula, Mutha, and Bhima rivers, holds the fifth place among the revered Ashtavinayak shrines. This ancient temple is famed for its role in alleviating worries and instilling mental peace—“Chintamani” literally means the wish-fulfilling jewel. According to legend, King Abhijit’s son Ganasura greedily stole the Chintamani gem from sage Kapila, whose prayers to Ganesha brought forth the deity’s incarnation. After Ganesha restored the gem and vanquished the demon, Kapila adorned the Lord with the jewel—thus the name Chintamani Vinayaka

The temple, originally founded by Dharanidhar Maharaj Dev and later expanded by the Peshwas, is renowned for enduring nearly four centuries with its entirely wooden assembly hall (sabha mandap) constructed by Madhavrao Peshwa. The northern gateway offers panoramic river views, while the east-facing sanctum houses a vermillion-smeared, self-manifested Ganesha idol with left-curved trunk and diamonds set in the eyes and navel. The golden-plated shikhara adds an aura of spiritual grandeur, and painted walls depict scenes of Peshwa history and daily life. In the courtyard stands a Shiva shrine and a historic bell, one of two gifted by Chimaji Appa after his victory at Vasai

The temple’s lore extends into historical prominence; the Peshwas revered Chintamani as a family deity, and Madhavrao Peshwa spent his final days here. His samadhi and Saticha Vrindavan garden honor his memory and that of Ramabai, who took sati at the riverside. Today, a museum beside the complex displays rare Ganesha paintings, betel-nut, rice, and metal idols.

Daily rituals include prakshal puja (dusk), shodashopchar puja (morning and noon), panchopchar puja (evening), and joyful shezarti. Celebratory processions, community darshan, and the echoing devotional “Chaughada” drums fill the temple with lively spiritual energy, especially during festival seasons