Mumbaikers celebrate the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi with funfair and enthusiasm every year. However, this year, due to the global pandemic, the prominent Ganesh associations have been either called off or postponed. However, many popular associations are offering live darshans from the Ganpati mandals. This way, the devotees will be able to participate in the festivities from the comforts of their homes. Here is a list of the most popular ones in Mumbai.
Also read: Ganpati Goes Online In Delhi NCR; 5 Ganpati Pandals You Can Virtually Visit
1. Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal, Ganesh Galli
The Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav hosts one of the most prominent Ganesh mandals in the city, but this year, the members have decided to bring in a four-foot idol in the wake of coronavirus. The idol is usually 20-feet tall with elaborate decorations. Also, unlike in other years, there will be no Utsav murti this year. Online darshan will be organised for the safety of the devotees.
2. GSB Seva Mandal
You can join the 66th year of celebrations of GSB Seva Mandal with 24 hours LIVE telecast on JioTV from August 22 to August 26. The sevas and the pujas can be booked online or on the application. The organisers are also delivering the pooja prasad to the residences of the devotees through courier. These 5 Interesting Facts About Ganesh Chaturthi That Will Surprise You
3. Siddhivinayak Mandir
Among the many temples of Lord Ganesha, the Siddhivinayak temple finds a special mention. Devotees from across the country visit the temple to pay obeisance to the Lord every year. But this year due to the pandemic, the celebrations shall take place without the physical presence of the devotees. You can, however, take the virtual darshan of Siddhivinayak and watch the aarti live.
4. Chinchpokli Chintamani
Popularly known as Chinchpoklicha Cha Raja, the organisers have decided to forgo the customary 22 feet plaster of Paris idol, and instead will worship a small silver figurine of Lord Ganesha. The ‘aagman’ and ‘paat pujan’ ceremonies, drew large crowds in this Mandal. However, this year, the Mandal has decided to go live with their darshans and organise health drives and COVID-19 test camps throughout the year. Here are 5 Fascinating Ancient Ganesh Temples In India You Need To Visit.
5. Khetwadicha Raja
In 2000, the Khetwadi Cha Raja rose to fame during Ganesh Chaturthi festival for its 40-foot tall Ganesh idol. Since then, lakhs of devotees wait in long queues outside the Mandal to seek Bappa’s blessings. However, this year, the organisers have decided to go live with their aarti as well as the visarjan. You will also be able to take a joyful ride through the popular Ganpati idols of Khetwadi online.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have to celebrate adjusting to the ‘new normal’ and keep the festivities low-key.