Maharashtra Declares ‘Ganeshotsav' As Official State Festival
The public celebration of welcoming Lord Ganesh traces back to 1893 when Bal Gangadhar Tilak popularised the festival as a symbol of unity and resistance during colonial rule.
In a significant move seen as a cultural assertion, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government on Thursday officially declared over-a-century-old ' Sarvajanik Ganehotsav ' (Ganpati festival) as the 'State Festival of Maharashtra'.
Making the announcement in the legislative assembly, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar emphasised the festival's deep-rooted connection with the state's social and national history.
The public celebration of welcoming Lord Ganesh traces back to 1893 when freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak popularised the festival as a symbol of unity and resistance during colonial rule.
'Ganeshotsav is not just a celebration. It is a symbol of Maharashtra's cultural pride and identity," Shelar said adding that Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav the state was started by Lokmanya Tilak in 1893. 'The very essence of this festival is rooted in social unity, nationalism, the spirit of freedom, self-respect, and pride in our language," he said as quoted by news agency PTI.
Shelar further said that the government remains firmly committed to preserving Ganeshotsav's cultural legacy despite previous hindrances such as court petitions aimed at obstructing the celebrations.
'The Maharashtra government is firmly committed to preserving, promoting and celebrating the cultural legacy of Ganeshotsav across the state and the nation. While some individuals attempted to hinder this age-old public tradition by raising various court petitions, trying to obstruct the celebrations, the Mahayuti government acted swiftly and decisively removed all such hurdles," he added.
The previous government had imposed curbs on POP (Plaster of Paris) idols, citing guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) but without offering practical alternatives. Shelar said his department approached the issue with a more balanced view.
'We initiated a comprehensive study to explore eco-friendly alternatives and assess whether POP is truly harmful to the environment. We commissioned an in-depth study by the Kakodkar Committee through the Rajiv Gandhi Science Commission. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav approved the findings, and the earlier restrictions were lifted. As per the court's ruling, the making, displaying and selling of POP idols are now permitted," he said.
The Maharashtra government has further committed to providing financial assistance, police protection, and necessary infrastructure for Ganeshotsav celebrations across the state, including major cities like Pune, Mumbai, and rural towns.
'Celebrating Ganeshotsav with full enthusiasm is not just a tradition but a core belief of the Mahayuti government. I appeal to all Ganpati Mandals to incorporate themes in their festivities that honour our armed forces, showcase social initiatives, 'Operation Sindoor', highlight the nation's developmental achievements and pay tributes to our great leaders in their decorative displays," Shelar said.
Shelar stated that the government is willing to bear the costs required to ensure the festival is conducted with full energy and discipline. He encouraged Ganesh Mandals to create thematic displays that highlight the contributions of the Indian Army, social initiatives, Operation Sindoor, national icons, and internal development work, urging them to celebrate with both enthusiasm and social responsibility.
This year, the 10-day Ganpati festival will begin on August 27.
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First Published:
July 10, 2025, 18:46 IST
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