The immersion of Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Bappa, widely known as India’s first public Ganpati, was a spectacle of tradition and devotion. The festivities stretched for nearly 20 hours, finally wrapping up early Sunday morning. The revered idol rode on the beautifully decorated ‘Shri Ganesh Ratna Rath’, with thousands of people lining the streets for an emotional goodbye in Pune.
The day started at 7.30 am with DCP Krushikesh Rawale offering prayers at the pandal. By 8 am, the idol was moved from Ratna Mahal and placed on the chariot, which later joined the main procession at the Tilak statue in Mandai. The official immersion journey began late in the evening and continued all night, filled with the constant chant of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.”
The procession was a vibrant display of Maharashtra’s culture. Crowd-pleasing Mardani Khel performances showcased the combat skills and valour of Maratha warriors, while the powerful beats of the Shriram and Ramanbaug Dhol-Tasha Pathaks kept the energy high throughout the long journey.
Speaking about the event, Punit Balan, trustee and celebration chief of the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, said, “Every year, we try to make the immersion procession more beautiful and meaningful. The Shri Ganesh Ratna Rath was decorated with special care this time, while Dhol-Tasha troupes and Mardani Khel groups reflected the essence of Maharashtra’s heritage. As per our tradition, all Five Manache Ganpatis were garlanded on behalf of the trust.”
Balan also emphasized the mandal’s evolving vision, “The Ganesh immersion in Pune is watched not only by the city but also by devotees across the world. This year, we received overwhelming support for our appeal for a DJ-free Ganeshotsav. In the next five to six years, I am confident that the entire festival in Pune will follow this path.”
Founded in 1892 during India’s freedom movement, the Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Mandal has a deep history as the first public Ganesh mandal in undivided India.
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