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Ganesh Chaturthi, one of India’s most beloved festivals, is a grand celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings. This festival, which marks the birth of Ganesha, is celebrated with immense enthusiasm, especially in Maharashtra. In Mumbai, the city comes alive with colourful processions, devotional music, and elaborately decorated pandals (temporary structures).
The festival lasts ten days, starting with installing Ganesha idols in homes and public mandaps (pandals) and culminating with the grand immersion (Visarjan) of the idols in water bodies. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated from September 7 to September 16, and if you’re in Mumbai during this period, visiting these eight iconic pandals is a must.
No list of Ganpati pandals in Mumbai is complete without mentioning Lalbaugcha Raja, the King of Lalbaug. Established in 1934, this iconic pandal draws millions of devotees every year, making it one of the most visited pandals in the city. The idol of Lalbaugcha Raja is known for its tall appearance and is considered a ‘Navsacha Ganpati,’ meaning the Ganesha who fulfils wishes. Devotees often stand in queues for hours, or even days, to glimpse this revered deity. The pandal is also famous for its theme-based decorations, which change yearly and often depict mythological themes or social messages.
Andhericha Raja is another popular pandal that commands a significant following in Mumbai. Established in 1966 by the workers of Golden Tobacco Company, this pandal is known for its unique themes and elaborate setups. Unlike other pandals, where the immersion of the idol happens on the 11th day, Andhericha Raja is immersed on the fifth day, maintaining a tradition that has been followed since its inception. The idol is often modelled after famous temples or events, and the decorations are nothing short of spectacular, making it a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.
Located just a stone’s throw away from Lalbaugcha Raja, the Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja is another prominent pandal in Mumbai. Established in 1928, this pandal is renowned for its creative decorations, often inspired by famous temples or historical monuments from across India. The idol at Ganesh Galli is usually depicted in a traditional pose, exuding a serene and divine aura. This pandal is perfect for those who want to experience the grandeur of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai without the overwhelming crowds of Lalbaugcha Raja.
Khetwadi Ganraj, located in the Khetwadi area of Girgaum, is known for its detailed idols and innovative themes. Established in 1959, this pandal has gained fame over the years for its creativity and the beauty of its idols, which are often adorned with real gold and silver jewellery. The Khetwadi Ganraj pandal is also famous for its massive idols, and for some years, idols have been seen as tall as 40 feet. The neighbourhood becomes a hub of activity during Ganesh Chaturthi, with various lanes hosting their unique versions of Ganpati pandals.
Known as the richest Ganpati pandal in Mumbai, the G.S.B. Seva Mandal at King’s Circle is famous for its lavish decorations and the use of real gold and silver ornaments on the idol. This pandal, organised by the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community, is unique in its traditional approach, with the idol made entirely of clay and adorned with beautiful jewellery. Established in 1951, the G.S.B. Seva Mandal is also known for its adherence to rituals and traditions, offering a spiritual experience amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani is one of the oldest Ganpati pandals in Mumbai, dating back to 1920. Located in Chinchpokli, this pandal is known for its grand celebrations and the beautiful idol of Lord Ganesha, which is traditionally crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The pandal’s decorations are usually simple yet elegant, focusing on the divinity of the idol. Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani is revered for its spiritual ambience, making it a favourite among locals and devotees who seek a more traditional and less commercialised Ganpati celebration.
Dongri Cha Raja, located in the heart of South Mumbai, is another pandal that draws large crowds during Ganesh Chaturthi. This pandal is known for its lively atmosphere, with the idol of Lord Ganesha often depicted in a powerful pose. Established in 1939, Dongri Cha Raja is famous for its processions and the energetic celebrations that accompany the immersion ceremony. The pandal’s decorations are often based on contemporary themes, making it a dynamic and modern take on the traditional Ganpati celebration.
Girgaon Cha Raja is one of the most beloved Ganpati pandals in South Mumbai, known for its artistic and beautifully crafted idols. Established in 1928, this pandal is situated in the Girgaon area, famous for its cultural scene. The pandal’s decorations are often inspired by traditional Maharashtrian culture, with the idol of Ganesha depicted in various poses that exude grace and divinity. The immersion procession of Girgaon Cha Raja is a grand affair, with thousands of devotees participating in the celebration.
