Lalbaugcha Raja Photo: First look of Lalbaugcha Raja unveiled in Mumbai, Lord Ganesha seen reposing on regal throne

After a long break of two years owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshostsav Mandal is all set to celebrate Ganeshotsav in all its glory. Also known as Lalbaugcha Raja, the Ganesh idol installed here is among the most popular and visited idols in Mumbai during Ganeshotsav. Each year, the Ganesha idol here witnesses lakhs of devotees thronging to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lalbaugcha Raja.

On Monday, the Mandal unveiled the first look of this year’s idol. The Mandal has installed a 12-feet idol with Lord Ganesh depicted as seated on a throne. This year the 10-day festival begins on August 31. The installation is based on the theme of Ayodhya Ram Temple and it has been decorated by noted art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai.

Besides, the Mandal organisers have made elaborate arrangements for the grand Ganeshotsav this year. The president of the Mandal, Bala Kamble, said that they will ensure that all devotees get a chance to see the idol.

The Mandal has installed large pavilions for devotees with sitting arrangements for women, children and senior citizens. Visitors will be served tea and biscuits regularly. And for security, the organisers have installed close to 250 CCTV cameras and metal detectors. Kamble said that they have also deployed private security agency personnel.

According to the organisers, after two years of subdued celebration, this year the Mandal is expecting a large number of devotees to visit. In Mumbai, the Covid-19 restrictions are absent allowing Mumbaikars to enjoy the festival in all its fervour. Moreover, the chief minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, had earlier announced that Ganpati festivities in the state would be celebrated just as they were celebrated in pre-Covid times.