The much-awaited 10-day-long Ganesh Chaturthi festival has officially kicked off, and Maharashtra is celebrating in full fervor. On this auspicious day, devotees across the state welcomed Lord Ganesha, affectionately known as Bappa, with traditional processions, chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Mangal Murti Morya,” and joyous aartis of “Sukh Karta Dukh Harta.” The festival marks the beginning of Ganeshotsav, a cherished time for Maharashtrians.
Enthusiastic Celebrations Across Mumbai and Pune
In Mumbai, iconic Ganpati mandals such as Lalbaugcha Raja, Ganesh Gully, Tejukaya Mandal, Chinchpoklicha Raja, GSB Seva Mandal in Matunga, Sahyadri Mandal in Chembur, and Andhericha Raja were welcomed with grand processions featuring Dhol Tasha and Lezim performances. Devotees thronged the streets to celebrate the arrival of Bappa, with the air filled with devotional chants.
Meanwhile, in Pune, home to some of the most historic Ganesh mandals, celebrations were equally vibrant. Tulsi Baug Ganpati, Guruji Talim Ganpati, Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati, Shree Kasba Ganpati, and Kesri Wada Ganpati were all welcomed in a grand fashion. The traditional fanfare, accompanied by an overwhelming display of enthusiasm, echoed the rich cultural heritage of Pune’s Ganeshotsav.
Nagpur Joins in the Festivities
Nagpur also witnessed its iconic mandals come to life, with grand gatherings for the Tekdi Ganpati, Adasa Ganesh Mandir, Ashtadashbhuja Ganesh Mandir at Ramtek, and Reshambaug Ganpati. Devotees in the city gathered in large numbers to celebrate the auspicious occasion, with prayers and rituals marking the beginning of the festival.
Political Leaders and Public Figures Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi
The festive spirit wasn’t limited to the general public, as political leaders and business figures joined in the celebrations. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde welcomed Lord Ganesha at his official residence, Varsha Bungalow, continuing a tradition that holds significance for him and his family.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray performed Ganesh Puja with his family at his residence on Saturday morning. The Thackeray family has always been known for its deep-rooted cultural ties and devotion to Lord Ganesha, and this year was no different.
Markets Bustle with Devotees, Police on High Alert
All major markets across Maharashtra were bustling with activity as devotees shopped for festival essentials. In preparation for the large crowds expected to visit public mandals, the Maharashtra police have increased security measures. Around 15,000 police personnel will be deployed across Mumbai alone during the 10-day festival to ensure safety.
With over 2,500 Ganesh mandals set up across Mumbai, officials anticipate lakhs of devotees will visit these locations to seek Bappa’s blessings. The police presence is expected to help maintain peace and security during the grand celebrations.
As the festival progresses, Maharashtra’s streets will continue to be filled with joy, devotion, and unity as people come together to celebrate the beloved Ganpati Bappa, praying for prosperity, peace, and happiness for all.
