Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Begin in Mumbai

Mumbai has officially entered the festive season as the first Ganesh idols started leaving the city's iconic workshops in Parel, Lalbaug and nearby areas for homes and public pandals. Devotees celebrated the arrival with vibrant Ganesh Aagman processions featuring dhol-tasha performances, flower offerings, prayers and chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya." Several idols crafted in Mumbai are also being transported to Gujarat, highlighting the growing demand for the city's skilled artisans.

Artisans said they have spent months preparing thousands of idols and are now in the busiest phase of production and deliveries ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14. The Maharashtra government has urged devotees to opt for eco-friendly shadu clay idols instead of Plaster of Paris to reduce water pollution during immersion. To manage the festive rush, Central Railway has announced 246 special Ganpati trains for passengers travelling during the festival.