Lalbaugcha Raja turns 82: A look at the latest statue

Lalbaugcha Raja plays a significant part in Ganesh Chaturthi, here is a look at iconic statue of the most famous Sarvajanik Ganpati.

The statue has an added touch of grandeur that beautifully symbolizes the joy and vigor of the festival. It is during these days that the most innovative ideas are executed and the most magnificent Ganpati idols are brought to life. Looks like the preparations have reached the pinnacle and many more stunning idols are awaiting us!

#GaneshChaturthi : First look of #Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati, Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/ujHJP0lVgN

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 2, 2016

Lalbaugcha Raja is the most famous Sarvajanik Ganapati, kept at Lalbaug, a prominent locality in Mumbai during Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The idol is kept for public display for Eleven days thereafter it is immersed on the auspicious day of Anant Chaturdashi.

There are two queues for taking blessings of the Lalbaugcha Raja - Navsachi Line and Mukh Darshanachi Line.

The Navsachi line is for people who want to get their wishes fulfilled. In this line you get to go on the stage and touch the feet of Lalbaugcha Raja and take his blessings so that all your wishes get fulfilled. However this line attracts huge public and it takes around 25 – 30 and sometimes up to 40 hours to get darshan in this line. There are 300-400 employees every year to organize the event.

The second line in meant for Mukh darshan i.e., to get a glimpse of Lalbaugcha Raja Ganesha Idol from some distance without going onto the stage. This line also attracts huge public and it takes around 5 – 8 hours and sometimes up to 12 – 14 hours to get darshan in this line as well, especially on Weekends.

In 2016, Lalbaugcha Raja has turned 82.