The grandeur and vibrance of Ganeshotsav

By Raju Vernekar

Mumbai: The “Ganeshotsav,” an 11-day joyful festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and the remover of obstacles, is being celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm across the country.

 As per the tradition, the vibrance of the festival is remarkable in Mumbai and Pune. While the “Lalbaugcha Raja,” “Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani,” and other Mandals in South Mumbai, have been attracting thousands of devotees per day, huge Ganesha idols are installed almost in every corner of Mumbai by housing societies and private groups. Most of them have been immersed by now.

 Yet the daily heartfelt aartis, cultural programs, food offerings, and the union of communities and families have filled the air in Mumbai, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual values. Not to miss the delicious modaks and traditional sweets.

 The vibrant atmosphere of the celebrations continues to draw in numerous devotees, each eager to participate in the joyous rituals and community gatherings. As the festival progresses, the spirit of unity and devotion fills the air, marking a significant cultural moment for all involved. The public celebration of the festival started by the Great freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak has spread across the globe, covering almost all continents.

 The beautifully decked-up pandals and colorful processions have been dotting the city’s landscape. The dance and singing competitions, involving people, right from the children to the elderly, are part of the celebrations in most of the housing colonies.

 The “Chikuwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal” (Shiv Sena Shakha kramank 17), led by Shakha Pramukh Sagar Sarfare, at Borivali West in North Mumbai, has installed a giant-sized colorful Ganesha idol, which has been drawing a huge crowd of devotees. A “Bhandara” was also organized, providing a free meal to the devotees.

 The grandeur of the festival will continue till Anant Chaturdashi, Friday, September 25, 2026, when the idols will be carried in processions and immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.