Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant 10-day festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, is here. This year, it began on 27 August, and Pune shares a deep connection with this festival thanks to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who, in 1893, transformed it into a grand public celebration. Because of him, colourful mandals with stunning Ganesh idols bring the city together every year in a spirit of devotion and unity. If you're in Pune during Ganesh Chaturthi, you're in for something truly special, which is experiencing the heart and soul of Ganeshotsav through the city’s iconic Paper Mache Ganapati idols in Pune. So, scroll up and dive into the details of these iconic mandals.
Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi By Visiting Paper Mache Ganapati Idols In Pune
Here's A List Of Paper Mache Ganapati Idols In Pune
Kasba Ganpati
Established in early 1893, Kasba Ganpati is known as 'Manacha Pahila Ganpati' or the most revered Ganpati in town. Considered the Grama-Devata of Pune, the story of Kasba Ganpati that goes back to 1700. When Rajmata Jijabai Bhosle arrived in town with seven other influential families, the party found an idol of this Ganpati in Kasba Peth. Since this deity is considered the lord of new beginnings, the Rajmata took this as an auspicious sign and ordered the establishment of a new colony around the area. Even today, Kasba Ganpati is the first in line to lead the immersion procession.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 3.3 km
Social Handle: @shrikasbaganpati
Tambdi Jogeshwari
Started by Lokmanya Tilak, Tambdi Jogeshwari is known as 'Manacha Dusra Ganpati' or the second most revered Ganpati in town. Regarded as the Gram-Devi of Pune, Tambdi Jogeshwari is famous for its unique reddish-coloured Ganpati idol, which is believed to be one of the city's oldest. Built in a fifteenth-century temple of Goddess Durga, this mandal has been hosting Ganeshotsav on a large scale since 1893. The major attraction of this mandal is the splendid dome made entirely of silver, where the idol is perched every year.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 4 km
Social Handle: @shreetambadijogeshwari
Guruji Talim
Established in 1887 by the Shinde and Nalban family, Guruji Talim is known as 'Manacha Tisra Ganpati' or the third most revered Ganpati in town. Since this mandal was formed before Lokamanya Tilak established Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav, it makes them the first mandal to celebrate its Platinum Jubilee. What sets this mandal apart is its emphasis on preserving traditional art forms. Every year, skilled artisans create mesmerising backdrops and decorations, which reflect Maharashtrian culture, music, and art in all its glory.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 4 km
Social Handle: @guruji_talim_mandal_pune
Tulshibaug Ganpati
According to the shopkeepers in Tulshibaug, this Ganpati is the reason for their flourishing business for years. Established in 1901, Tulshibaug Ganpati is known as 'Manacha Chowtha Ganpati' or the fourth most revered Ganpati in town. Thirteen feet tall and adorned with splendid silver jewellery from head to toe, the Lord Ganesh idol is a sight to behold. Famous for its vibrant and creative decorations, the mandal's theme changes annually, from mythological tales to contemporary social issues. Its lively atmosphere and attention to detail in decorations make this spot a must-visit during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 4.2 km
Social Handle: @tulshibaugmahaganpati
Akhil Mandai Ganpati
Established in 1893, Akhil Mandai Ganpati has evolved into a platform that celebrates artistic expression. Each year, the mandal boasts captivating lighting arrangements and stunning themes that range from traditional mythological narratives to contemporary social issues. Beyond its aesthetic allure, the Akhil Mandai Mandal also contributes to Pune's cultural tapestry by encouraging local artisans and craftspeople. By highlighting their skills in crafting ornate decorations, the mandal supports traditional art forms and provides a stage for these local artists to showcase their talents. Akhil Mandai Mandal's fusion of creativity, spirituality, and community involvement makes it a standout in Pune's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 4.2 km
Social Handle: @akhilmandaimandal
Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati
Established in 1892 by Bhausaheb Laxman Rangari, a prominent social reformer and freedom fighter, this was the first ever Sarvajanik Ganesha in the entire country. Unlike other mandals, the Lord Ganesh idol here is on his feet slaying a demon that symbolises the destruction of bad habits in the society. Made from paper pulp and teak wood by Bhausaheb himself, the mandal still uses the same 131-year-old idol, while the decorations change each year. Adorned with floral arrangements, gold and silver polishes, and state-of-the-art lighting, this one is definitely one of the most stunning installations in town.
Distance From Pune Railway Station: 3.5 km
Social Handle: Facebook
LBB Tip
If you are planning to see the Ganpatis, hop on the metro and get down at either Kasba Peth or Mandai station. The mandals are all within 500 to 600 metres of each other, so it’s super walkable. Also, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the crowd and enjoy the experience peacefully.
