August 25, 2025

The heartbeat of Mumbai's Ganesh Chaturthi has started to thump with the dazzling first look of the legendary Lalbaugcha Raja idol unveiled on Sunday evening. This majestic idol, lovingly crafted by the Kambli family since 1934, is the shining star of festivities happening from August 27 to September 6, 2025. Throngs of devotees gathered, their eyes sparkling with devotion and excitement, as the festive magic officially began. Nestled in Putlabai Chawl and managed by the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, this idol isn't just any statue—it's a powerful symbol of Mumbai’s soul and love for Lord Ganesha. Year after year, millions line up for hours, eager to seek blessings from this grand deity who embodies wisdom, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. Ganesh Chaturthi itself is no ordinary festival. Also called Vinayak Chaturthi, it’s a 10-day extravaganza celebrated across Maharashtra with vibrant processions, beautifully decorated pandals, and soul-stirring devotional songs. The festival marks the beginning of fresh hopes and is steeped in tradition dating back centuries. But here’s some fresh, green news amidst the colorful festivities! A smart Mumbai artisan has been quietly revolutionizing Ganpati idols for over a decade by making them from eco-friendly processed paper. These unique idols use a blend of calcium powder, refined paper pulp, and layered paper interiors. The magic? They weigh only about 2.5 to 3 kg for a 2-foot idol, compared to the heavy 20 kg clay versions. "The biggest USP of our paper Ganpati is that it's a breeze to carry and absolutely eco-friendly," the artisan told ANI. For families traveling to their hometowns, these light idols are game changers. They also dissolve quickly and cleanly in water, leaving little to no mess, and the materials can be recycled—helping protect our precious rivers and lakes. So, this Ganesh Chaturthi, as Mumbai’s beloved Lalbaugcha Raja dazzles the crowds, many devotees are also embracing the eco-friendly wave, making the festival not just grand but green. A perfect blend of tradition and sustainability awaits all! (With inputs from ANI)

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Tags: Lalbaugcha raja, Ganesh chaturthi 2025, Eco-friendly ganpati idols, Mumbai celebrations, Paper ganpati, Sustainable festival,