State grants ‘Maharashtra State Festival' status to Ganeshotsav, promises funds
Ashish Shelar, the cultural affairs minister of state, made the announcement during the monsoon session of the assembly while replying to the demand of Kasba Peth MLA Hemant Rasane.
The latter also demanded Rs100 crore from the state for the festival.
"State govt is committed to promoting the festival not only at the national- but also at the international-level. Funds would be provided without any constraints for this festival. The money will be given for police protection and infrastructure development of the festival," said Shelar.
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Ganesh mandals welcomed the move, stating that the state's support would help in better management of events.
Shelar said the essence of this festival was rooted in social unity, nationalism, spirit of freedom, self-respect and pride in our language. He said the noble tradition continued even today. The minister said Ganeshotsav was not just a celebration, it was a symbol of Maharashtra's cultural pride and identity.
"Restrictions were imposed on traditional POP (Plaster of Paris) idols during the previous govt citing CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) guidelines, without offering practical alternatives.
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In contrast, our department approached the issue with a more balanced view. We initiated a comprehensive study to explore eco-friendly alternatives and assess if POP was truly harmful to the environment. Following the findings, earlier restrictions were lifted," he said.
Shelar said Ganapati mandals should incorporate themes in their festivities that honour our armed forces' role in Operation Sindoor, showcase social initiatives, highlight the nation's achievements on the development front and pay tributes to great leaders.
MLA Rasane said, "The state's support will help in tourism, cultural festivals and local businesses. The state should also take steps to allow 24X7 celebrations of the festival."
Shrikant Shete, the president of Kasba Ganapati Mandal, said, "The festival should be traditional in manners. It should enlighten people and help in improving social lives. If the government participates in this festival directly, it will help make celebrations more socially responsible and public friendly."
Nitin Pandit of Tulshibaug Ganapati Mandal said, "People from different parts of our state and country come to watch the festival and immersion procession. Visitors come from other countries, too. They should have proper facilities to participate in the fervour. The govt support is a key aspect of it. Planning on the lines of the Wari procession or Kumbh Mela is possible if the govt plays a key role."
Mahesh Suryavanshi of Shreemant Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Mandal, said, "After getting the new status, budgetary allocations will be made for this festival at state govt-level.
It will help in providing facilities to visitors and tourists."
The 10-day-long Ganeshotsav, celebrated in the state on a large scale, has a tradition of over 130 years. Not only in households, celebrations take place at mandal (groups)-level. The procession to immerse Ganesh idols attracts huge crowds, especially in Pune, Mumbai and Nashik. The number of registered mandals in Pune increased to 3,798 in 2024 from 2,700 in 2023.
The festival is celebrated in a grand manner across Pune city. Streets of Shivajinagar, Swargate and Peth areas attract huge crowds. Markets, particularly in Mandai and Peth areas, witness a surge of customers shopping for puja items. Ready packets containing essential items for worship remain in high demand.
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