Ganesh Utsav at Maharashtra Sadan : A celebration of Tradition, Culture, and Togetherness

Ganesh Utsav at Maharashtra Sadan : A celebration of Tradition, Culture, and Togetherness

Ganesh Utsav has always been one of the most popular festivals in Maharashtra. Yet it is more than a religious occasion since  it brings families, friends, and entire communities together. The roots of this tradition go back to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who transformed Ganesh worship into a movement to awaken the national spirit, unite people against British rule, and strengthen cultural pride. What began as a socio-religious movement in Maharashtra is celebrated all over India the world today.
My own journey with Ganesh Utsav began in my childhood, at Bhusawal. I still remember the thrill of visiting Ganesh Mandals and being mesmerized by the dazzling music lighting which was a new concept then. Later, as a student at Pune University, I got to experience the grandeur of the Pune Ganesh Festival, known for its traditions, cultural richness, and artistic excellence.
When I moved to Mumbai, Ganesh Utsav became even more special. Visiting pandals across the city, especially the iconic Lalbaagcha Raja, which symbolizes faith and devotion became an inseparable part of life.
One of my cherished activity is visiting the Ganesh Pandals in Mulund with my son Vishnu, his friend Aryan, and Aryan’s mother Komal which not  only reflects devotion, but also binds our children to culture and tradition and the true festive cheer of Ganesh Utsav.
This year is different as I am posted in Delhi as the Resident Commissioner of Maharashtra, away from Mumbai and its vibrant pandals. Yet, the festivities at Old Maharashtra Sadan on Copernicus Marg have brought me a sense of home and belonging.
The Sthapana of Ganapati Bappa on 27th August by Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Dr. Shrikant Shinde, was a special moment. Soon after that he inaugurated a unique exhibition adding to the festive spirit.
Since then, the celebrations have been full of life with mesmerizing folk dances by artists from Dombivli, soulful music by Debu Mukherjee, and devotional Santwani by Pandit Dr. Sanjay Garud.
A special highlight has been the Live Modak Counter, where ladies from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Thane have been preparing Bappa’s favorite delicacy. The exhibition of Self Help Group  products has been equally inspiring  with stalls displaying children’s garments, bags, kurtis, banjara jewellery, handicrafts, masalas, traditional foods, khadi, and beautiful artworks. These women-led groups embody self-reliance and empowerment, while also giving visitors a chance to support local craftsmanship. This spirit of being vocal for local blends perfectly with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat as emphasized by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.
But amidst all the joy and devotion, we must also pause to reflect on our responsibility. Festivals are meant to celebrate life, but they must also respect the environment. As responsible citizens, we need to avoid excess use of plastic, reduce sound pollution, and promote eco-friendly practices to ensure a sustainable future.
Personally, while I do miss the grandeur of Mumbai’s Ganesh Utsav, the celebrations at Maharashtra Sadan in Delhi have been deeply fulfilling. They remind me that the heart of Ganesh Utsav lies in its power to unite people, wherever they may be. From Bhusawal to Pune, from Mumbai to Delhi, the spirit of Ganesh Utsav continues to keep alive our traditions, devotion, and community spirit.
Since its inception, the festival has carried a timeless message of unity, culture, and service. That message is equally relevant today as it was in Lokmanya Tilak’s time.
On this Ganesh Utsav, let us all pledge to remain united as a community, be vocal for local by supporting Self-Help Groups, village industries, khadi, local artisans, and celebrate responsibly by choosing eco-friendly practices. Most importantly, let us carry forward our culture with devotion, joy, and harmony.
Ganpati Bappa Morya!

R. Vimala,IAS,
Resident Commissioner,
Maharashtra Sadan,
Compassionate Civil Servant & PhD Scholar at IIT Bombay

P. S - All are invited to Old Maharashtra Sadan, Copernicus Marg, New Delhi, till 6th September 2025 for Ganesh Darshan & The Exhibition