Lalbaugcha Raja ushers in Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 with grandeur in Mumbai

MUMBAI: Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations began in Mumbai with the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja unveiling his majestic presence for 2025, drawing lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. The ten-day festival, starting from August 27 and continuing till September 6, brings an air of devotion, joy, and cultural fervour to the city.

The origin of Lalbaugcha Raja

The story of Lalbaugcha Raja dates back to 1932 when mill workers in Lalbaug, then Mumbai’s textile hub, faced livelihood struggles after the closure of the Peru Chawl marketplace. They prayed to Lord Ganesha for help, and when their prayers were answered with the approval of a new marketplace, the workers installed an idol of Ganesha in gratitude in 1934. Over the years, the idol earned the title of ‘Navsacha Ganpati’—the wish-fulfilling deity—and became the centre of Mumbai’s most prominent Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Pratham Darshan marks the start of festivities

The Pratham Darshan, held a day before the festival, offered devotees their first glimpse of the 14-foot idol. Thousands queued for hours, while chants of ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’ echoed through the streets, signalling the start of ten days of prayers, cultural programmes, and festivities.

Pandal design and artistic legacy

This year, the pandal features a grand entrance designed as a giant elephant head adorned with intricate ornaments. The idol, sculpted by the Kambli family—who have been creating the idol for over nine decades—retains its majestic yet devotional aura, reflecting the blend of tradition and artistry that makes Lalbaugcha Raja unique.

Aarti and darshan timings for 2025

Devotees can avail of Charan Sparsha Darshan and Mukh Darshan from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm daily. Aarti timings are as follows:

• Morning Aarti: 7:00 am – 7:30 am

For those unable to visit in person, live darshan is available online through the official Lalbaugcha Raja website.

Visarjan to conclude grand celebrations

The festival concludes with Ganesh Visarjan on September 6, when the idol will be taken to Girgaon Chowpatty in a grand procession accompanied by music, dance, and chants of “Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya,” inviting Lord Ganesha to return next year.

Conclusion

Lalbaugcha Raja remains a symbol of faith, hope, and unity, attracting devotees across social, cultural, and geographical boundaries. With its deep-rooted history and spiritual significance, the 2025 celebrations promise to uphold the tradition of grandeur and devotion that Mumbai is known for.