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The annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival has commenced in Maharashtra, bringing with it vibrant celebrations and the installation of Ganesh idols in homes and public pandals across the state. Devotees, including families with children and elderly members, eagerly participate in the festivities, welcoming their beloved god into their homes with chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya" and the rhythmic beating of drums.
One of the most renowned and revered Ganesh idols in Mumbai is Lalbaugcha Raja, established in 1934. Each year, countless devotees from across India join long queues, hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic idol and seek its blessings. Recognizing the importance of accessibility for devotees who may not be able to physically visit the pandal, the Lalbaugcha Raja Mandal has introduced a convenient online option for seeking the blessings of the deity.
Devotees can now order prasad online through the official website, making it possible to receive a portion of the blessed offerings from the pandal even while being physically distant. This service allows individuals to participate in the festival and connect with the divine, regardless of their location. While third-party platforms and e-commerce sites may also offer prasad delivery, it is recommended to use the official website to ensure authenticity and support the mandal directly.
Beyond the religious aspects of the festival, the 10-day celebration is also a time for the city of Mumbai to come alive with colorful lights and decorations. Streets and bylanes are transformed into vibrant displays of festive cheer, creating a celebratory atmosphere across the city. Famous Ganapati mandals in areas like Lalbaug, Parel, Girgaon, Andheri, Chembur, Fort, and others are visited by lakhs of devotees, adding to the grandeur and spirit of the occasion.
The festival also brings to light the rich heritage and culture of Maharashtra. The GSB Seva Mandal, known for its Lord Ganesha adorned with gold ornaments, stands as a testament to the opulence and cultural significance of the celebrations. The Maharashtra Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, has encouraged eco-friendly practices for the festivities and urged people to extend a helping hand to those in need during this time.
The BMC, Mumbai's civic body, has issued a cautionary advisory regarding stingray and jellyfish bites during the idol immersion ceremony, a significant part of the festival. The potential for these bites stems from the presence of harmful fish in the Arabian Sea, where hundreds of large Ganesh idols are immersed. The Fisheries Department has conducted trials that have revealed an increase in the presence of these creatures, leading to the BMC's recommendation for increased caution during immersion ceremonies.
Source: Lalbaugcha Raja Darshan: Where to watch Lalbaugcha Raja live darshan online and order prasad