The Akhil Mandai Mandal and the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, major attractions for Ganesh devotees worldwide, traditionally participate in the Ganesh immersion procession on Laxmi Road. However, starting this year, both mandals have decided not to join the procession in the evening but instead immediately after the Five Manache Ganpati Mandals proceed in the procession.
A press conference was held to share information regarding this decision. Key attendees included Akhil Mandai Mandal President Anna Thorat, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust Trustee and Celebration Chief Punit Balan, President Sanjeev Jawale, along with Sanjay Mate and Vishwas Bhor from the Akhil Mandai Mandal.
In the press meet, Anna Thorat stated, “Ganeshotsav is a religious festival, and all 10 days are important. The immersion procession day, or Anant Chaturdashi, which falls on September 6 this year, is the most significant. However, on September 7, the next day, there is a total lunar eclipse, during which all idols of deities must be covered. Therefore, it is essential that idols are brought back to their respective temples before noon on the eclipse day.
“We were ready to join the procession at 7 PM over the past three years. However, the police department did not keep its promise. As a result, we were not allowed to join the procession despite being ready. Hence, we have decided to participate immediately after the Five Manache Ganpati join the procession. We appeal to all Ganesh mandals to complete the immersion procession before noon (12 PM).”
Punit Balan added, “The eclipse will begin at 12:37 PM on Sunday (September 7). It is necessary for all Ganesh mandals to return their idols to their respective temples at least half an hour before the eclipse begins. Therefore, the immersion procession must be completed early. We have decided to join the procession immediately after the Five Manache Ganpati proceed from Tilak Putala Chowk at Mandai. If all Ganesh mandals cooperate, it will reduce the burden on the police and the civic administration.”
