The Ganesh Chaturthi festival has begun and the buzz is slowly increasing in Mumbai, particularly with the revelation of the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja murti.
This year, there is something much more spectacular that has captured everyone’s attention. Lord Ganesha, affectionately known as Bappa, is packed in a gorgeous maroon color outfit. Adorned with brilliant ornaments. But the most outstanding item this time is a grand 20-kg gold crown. Which has been placed on the head of the idol. This crown, which is believed to cost as much as Rs 15 crore, was donated by Anant Ambani and the Reliance Foundation. This great contribution has made the idol seem even more glorious and contributed to the festival’s splendor this year.
Lalbaugcha Raja is a form of inspiration for many, including Anant Ambani who has been visiting this place for over fifteen years. He has always been an active member of the committee, which is in charge of organizing the celebrations and often participates in various endeavors. During Ganeshotsav he was seen at many functions, it is a 10 day festival in which Lord Ganesha is worshipped with great affection. Like any other Mumbaikar, Anant Ambani too gets involved in the immersion procession held at Girgaon Chowpatty beach where the idol is submerged in the sea.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the committee faced financial difficulties in continuing its social work. Anant Ambani stepped in to provide critical assistance, including donating 24 dialysis machines to support the committee’s patient aid fund. His commitment to the cause was further recognized when he was appointed an executive advisor to the Lalbaugcha Raja committee.
Lalbaugcha Raja, known as the ‘King of Lalbaug,’ is one of the most famous Ganesh mandals in Mumbai, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Many people come from different parts of the city or even from other places to seek blessings. Be it a man in the street, or a celebrity, thousands of devotees patiently stand in queues around the temple complex just to have a darshan of the magnificent idol.
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations
The Ganeshotsav is a jubilant festival that lasts for ten days where Ganesh idol is worshipped in elaborate customs and rituals followed by visarjan. On the tenth day of the festival, idols of Ganesha are immersed in water which is carried out with much fanfare such as music, dancing and chanting. This year, Lalbaugcha Raja is going to sparkle more than ever,because of the gold crown. Which is donated by Anant Ambani.
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