The Antiquities of Orissa v2.c18.118

v2.c18.118

**Mahavinayaka Hill.** Further to the south, still on the Ālamgir range, occurs a peak known under the name of Mahāvināyaka or Bāruṇibānṭā Hill—a wild place covered by primitive forests and but sparingly peopled by the aboriginal Sawārs or Śavaras. It is included in the estate of Killā Darpan and hence often called Darpaṇa. There is nothing here to interest the antiquarian; but pilgrims resort to it as the place sacred to Gaṇeśa. The sanctuary is situated half way up the hill, on the basement of an ancient temple, its walls and roof being modern. Close by it there is a block of rounded stone, about 12 feet in circumference at the top, and carved in front. The carving include in the centre, the head of an elephant, on the right that of Śiva, and on the left that of Gaurī. The first is fairly well-carved ; the other two are exceedingly rude ; but what they want in carving is made up by the vermillion of the priest. The elephant head passes for Gaṇeśa and the block is worshipped as the union of Śiva, Gaurī and Gaṇeśa. Gaṇeśa, however, being in the centre, the place is looked upon as especially sacred to him, and called Viṇāyaka Kṣetra. About 30 feet higher up this [163] spot there is a tiny water-fall and some *liṅgams* canopied by the foliage of the surrounging trees. The sanctuary and its surroundings have no pretension to any antiquity ; but, it is said, the venaration for them is increasing with the increase of their age.