Keep Ganeshotsav Pure: Mumbai Mandals Urged

As Mumbai gears up for the vibrant 10-day Ganeshotsav starting Wednesday, the Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti has called on Ganesh mandals to keep the festival free from political influences, especially with civic elections looming. The apex coordination body emphasized preserving the cultural and devotional essence of the state-declared festival by showcasing Marathi heritage.

“Ganeshotsav is a sacred celebration, not a political platform,” said Naresh Dahibhavkar, president of the samiti, in a Monday statement. Invoking Lokmanya Tilak’s vision of the festival as a unifying force, the samiti urged mandals to promote Marathi language and culture, passing its richness to younger generations. “It’s our duty to highlight our heritage through this festival,” the statement read.

With Ganeshotsav’s growing scale, the samiti stressed the mandals’ responsibility to ensure safety, discipline, and cultural sanctity. To prevent chaos, mandals were directed to avoid overcrowding, manage processions efficiently, and coordinate with police, disaster management, and medical teams for emergencies. Safety measures include robust electrical setups for pandals, especially amid Mumbai’s heavy rains, which often disrupt festivities. Mandals were also advised to protect Ganesh idols from weather damage.

Also Read: Mumbai to Host National Women’s Commission Summit to Boost Gender Justice

Additional guidelines include installing CCTV cameras, providing separate darshan arrangements for women and seniors, and ensuring drinking water, first-aid, and resting facilities for devotees. “This is a people’s festival, and we must celebrate it with devotion and unity,” Dahibhavkar added.

For over 40 years, the samiti has facilitated smooth coordination between mandals, the Maharashtra government, municipal authorities, and police, streamlining permissions and procession logistics. As Mumbai prepares for the grand celebrations, the call to keep Ganeshotsav apolitical and culturally vibrant aims to honor its historical roots while ensuring a safe and inclusive experience for millions of devotees.

Also Read: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Patna Lead Diesel Gen-Set Pollution Crisis in India