Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Mumbai brings about a unique pause in the bustling commercial capital of India during the Ganesh Chaturthi. While the birthday of Lord Ganesha, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi, is celebrated nationwide, Mumbai’s Ganeshotsav (Ganesh festival) is renowned for its unparalleled glamour. While the oldest neighbourhood organisation still adheres to traditional practices with a modest idol, others compete for the grandest idols, extravagant decorations, and trendy pavilions. While most community organizers observe the entire 10-day festival, many households opt for shorter durations, including one and a half days, three days, five days, and seven days of celebration.
Top-5 Lord Ganpati Mandals to visit in Mumbai
1. Lalbaugcha Raja
Renowned as the “Navascha Ganpati” or the wish-fulfilling Ganpati, this idol holds a special place as the most prominent attraction among all the Ganesha idols revered in Mumbai. Situated in Parel, in the heart of Mumbai, an area once dominated by iconic textile mills, this shrine was established in 1934 by a group of grateful shopkeepers. This remarkable celebration is organised by the Lalbaugcharaja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, and it features an imposing Ganpati idol housed within a designer pavilion. In addition to the devotees, a significant crowd assembles to catch glimpses of VIPs, particularly Bollywood actors, who come to offer their prayers.
2. Ganesh Galli
If you prefer to skip the long queues but still want to soak in the festive atmosphere of the Mumbai Ganpati festival, consider visiting the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal, often referred to as the Ganesh Galli Mandal. Situated near the renowned Lalbaug Raja, this mandal has its own unique charm and history, predating its more famous neighbour. Established in 1928, it holds a special place in the heart of the festival. This area is also home to many workshops where the idols are crafted, making it an interesting place to explore.
3. Khetwadi Ganraj
In 2023, the Khetwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal is commemorating its 63rd year. This mandal has garnered numerous awards for its splendid marquee decorations and the idol it showcases. Notably, the idol, affectionately known as “Khetwadi Ganraj,” is adorned with exquisite diamond. In a significant milestone in 2000, the mandal proudly unveiled the tallest Ganesh idol in India, standing at an impressive 40 feet in height.
4. Andhericha Raja
Organized by the Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti, Andhericha Raja is yet another major crowd attraction. One of its remarkable attributes is the gold crown adorning the idol, which reportedly weighs more than three kilograms. Interestingly, while most mandals conduct the immersion ceremony on Anant Chaturdashi, Andhericha Raja’s idol is immersed five days later, on the day of Sankasthi Chaturthi.
5.Keshavji Naik Chawl
Considered the oldest Ganpati mandal in Mumbai, the Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Sanstha, located in Girgaum, has a rich history dating back to 1893. Notably, in 1901, the renowned Indian freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak visited this chawl during Ganeshotsav. He selected this platform to promote patriotism and resistance against colonial rule. The mandal has chosen to preserve its traditional essence, featuring a 2.5 feet high idol and a simple marquee, thus maintaining its historical significance.
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