Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 29: This Ganeshotsav, Mumbai is witnessing grandeur on a spectacular scale as several of the city’s oldest and most revered Ganesh pandals have unveiled magnificent idols and awe-inspiring themes. With the state government and high court lifting curbs on plaster of paris (PoP), artisans and mandals have scaled new creative heights, drawing lakhs of devotees from across Maharashtra and beyond.

Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani

The 106-year-old Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani, one of Girangaon’s most venerated idols, is set against a grand palatial backdrop this year. The theme pays tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, whose life and valor have found renewed interest through films and books. Sculptor Siddhesh Dighole, a protégé of veteran idol maker Vijay Khatu, has crafted this year’s idol. The aagman yatra on August 17 witnessed a massive turnout of nearly one lakh devotees.

Ganesh Gully, Lalbaug

The 98-year-old Mumbaicha Raja of Ganesh Gully has enthralled visitors with a breathtaking replica of the Rameshwaram Jyotirling temple. The mandal has recreated the sacred ambience with intricately carved pillars, embellished walls, kunds (water tanks), and a majestic Nandi. Sculpted by Hyderabad-based artisan Akash Tirmal, the idol evokes nostalgia reminiscent of master craftsmen like Welling and Vijay Khatu. Devotees continue to throng the pandal for darshan in large numbers.

Khetwadi 10th Lane

Celebrating its 45th year, the Khetwadi 10th Lane mandal—Om Tandav—has presented a 40 ft tall idol with a unique Jal Tatva (water) theme. Sculptor Krunal Patil has been widely praised for creating one of his finest works this season. An innovative 360-degree rotating trolley offers devotees a panoramic view of the idol. Beyond festivities, the mandal is known for its year-round social service, including free medical camps, Shiv Jayanti celebrations, Diwali lantern distribution, and foodgrain aid for the underprivileged.

Kalachowkie Cha Mahaganpati

Kalachowkie’s Mahaganpati, sculpted by Siddhesh Dighole, has captivated devotees with its striking ‘Shankar Roopi Avatar’. Standing 22 ft tall, the idol makes its way through an incredibly narrow 8 ft alley flanked by chawls. The mandal enriches the celebration with traditional cultural performances, including women’s lezim, Koli dance, and palkhi processions, engaging nearly 20 societies in the area.

Keshavji Naik Chawl, Girgaum

Amidst the towering idols across Mumbai, the historic Keshavji Naik Chawl in Girgaum, home to Mumbai’s first sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, stays rooted in simplicity with its 2 ft idol. Celebrating its 133rd year, the mandal continues to uphold the vision of Lokmanya Tilak, blending tradition with modernity. “We strive to preserve the original spirit of community celebration,” said secretary Kumar Walekar.

From towering idols to cultural traditions, Mumbai’s oldest pandals once again embody the essence of devotion, artistry, and community spirit that defines Ganeshotsav in the city.