A Grand Devotional Farewell: Pune Witnesses the Majestic Immersion of Bhau Rangari Ganpati

Maharashtra’s biggest festival, Ganeshotsav, came to an emotional conclusion on Sunday morning as devotees bid farewell to their beloved Ganpati Bappa with teary eyes. Over the past ten days, the state had been immersed in devotion, faith, and celebration. On the final day, Mumbai and Pune witnessed spectacular scenes as devotees came together to immerse more than 2 lakh Ganesh idols across various visarjan spots. The energy, devotion, and cultural richness of the celebrations reflected Maharashtra’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

20-Hour Procession: ‘Ganpati Bappa’ Embarks on a Special Chariot

The highlight of Pune’s celebration was the grand procession of India first public Ganpati-Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati. Thousands of devotees thronged the streets to witness this spectacular cultural and spiritual event. The celebrations began on Anant Chaturdashi morning at 7:30 am, with DCP Krishikesh Rawle performing the traditional pooja at the mandap. At 8 am, the idol was placed on the specially designed ‘Shree Ganesh Ratna Rath’ (Gem Chariot), joining the main procession from Tilak Statue, Mandai. The ceremonial immersion began in the evening and continued late into the night, making it one of Pune’s most enchanting visarjan celebrations.

A Cultural Extravaganza with Tradition at Its Core

The procession beautifully showcased Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.Traditional Mardani Khel performances depicted the valor of Maratha warriors, while the beats of Shreeram and Ramanbagh Dhol-Tasha Pathaks electrified the atmosphere. Speaking on the occasion, Puneet Balan, trustee of Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, said:

“This year’s immersion procession was truly special. The decoration of the ‘Shree Ganesh Ratna Rath’ was mesmerizing, and the traditional dhol-tasha pathaks and Mardani Khel performances added grandeur to the entire event. As per tradition, we also offered floral garlands to all five Manache Ganpatis, marking our deep respect and devotion.”

Victory Against Noise Pollution: A DJ-Free Ganeshotsav

This year, the Bombay High Court imposed a strict ban on DJs during immersion processions to curb noise pollution. The Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust also appealed to all Ganesh mandals to avoid DJs, promoting a DJ-free Ganeshotsav- and the initiative turned out to be a huge success. Expressing his happiness, Puneet Balan said:

“Pune’s immersion procession attracts devotees from across the world. We are delighted that people embraced our call for a DJ-free Ganeshotsav. I’m confident that within the next five to six years, Pune’s Ganesh festival will be completely free from DJs and sound pollution.”

Why Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Holds a Special Place

Established in 1892 during the freedom movement, the Shreemant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Mandal is not only a symbol of religious faith but also represents social awareness and cultural pride. This year’s visarjan once again highlighted Pune’s spiritual devotion and rich traditions, marking a grand and emotional conclusion to the 10-day Ganeshotsav celebrations.

(Reported by- Pankaj R Mishra)