A Mumbai-based Muslim diamond merchant found a uniquely shaped rough diamond baring a resemblance to the shape of Lord Ganesha – the Hindu Elephant-Deity which is a symbol of success.



Rafique Bilakhaiya, 38, buys rough, uncut diamonds from the local diamond markets in Mumbai and sells these to diamond vendors in the city and abroad.



"I have never come across such a unique and auspicious diamond in my career in this industry," he told Manorama Online. "The fact that Lord Ganesha has come to me unsought is the best omen. I feel I am truly blessed by the Vignaharta (the remover of obstacles) - especially with the 10-day Ganapathi festival starting next month.



"I am a Muslim, but have grown up in Maharashtra and hence know that Lord Ganesha is the remover of all obstacles and he grants boon to all His devotees. I don’t want to give Him away," he added.



Bilakhaiya pointed out that he has neither polished nor cut the precious diamond, but has directly set it onto a gold pendant of 10 grams.



Bilakhaiya says he bought the diamond, weighing 6.41 carat, from the local diamond market of Mumbai last month, but did not see its unique shape foe several days. "I am relieved I did not polish it… If I cut it or polish it, the diamond will lose its divine shape and so will the Lord Ganesha be gone forever," he said.



Bilakhaiya added that once word of the prized diamond spread, his office has become a veritable pilgrimage centre, with hundreds clamoring to see the uncut diamond.