First glimpse of Lalbaug cha Raja | Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 | Darshan timings, Travel and Other Details
Ganesh Utsav is just a few days away, and devotees are awaiting the first glimpse of Bappa with utmost patience and lots of enthusiasm. Mumbaikars are ready to celebrate the much awaited festival, and one can witness various events marking the 'Aagman Sohala' of Bappa. Lalbaug cha Raja - the popular mandal based in Lalbaug, is one of the several favourite pandals that is all set to witness high footfall this year too. Amidst much fanfare, the first look of Lalbaug cha Raja was revealed on Friday (September 15). And needless to say, Bappa's royal avatar made for a beautiful glimpse.
This year too, the 10-day long celebration will be a grand affair.And, it will also be a poignant moment for the mandal as well as several loyal devotees, who have over the years, enjoyed the stunning backdrop and decor created by renowned art director - Late Nitin Chandrakant Desai. Every year, Desai's stunning art work and touch of royalty would turn into a big attraction during the festive season. Post 2015, he also started designing the throne.
This year, the celebration shall witness one of Desai's final work as an artist. For this year, the theme is designed to pay a tribute and mark the 350th year of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Based on the 'Raigad Killa' backdrop, Lalbaug cha Raja shall be seen sitting on a majestic 25-ft throne, exactly like the one that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj occupied in the fort. The background of the pandal is said to be inspired by the main entrance of the fort, called the Nagarkhana.
Read: Lalbaug cha Raja - Through the pages of history
Like every year, devotees will have two Darshan options. These include: The Mukh Darshan queue - whereby you can take Bappa's Darshan and blessings from a little far away (this queue usually takes 15-30 mins). The other queue - 'Navsachi Rang' (known as the queue for devotees who want to fulfil their vows) - usually takes around 9-10 hours and can even stretch to 18 hours on a crowded day (especially weekends). Devotees taking Darshan via Navsachi rang get 'charan sparsh' and Darshan on the main podium. This year, the Mukh Darshan and Navasachi Rang begins with an aarti at 4am on 19 September 2023. Darshan will remain open round-the-clock till visarjan day, which falls on 28 September 2023.
Planning your travel to Lalbaug
Train: Board the train to Chinchpokli or Byculla station. For western line, you can board the train and get down at Lower Parel (walking distance 7-10 mins). The Mukh Darshan queue can be approached from B.R Ambedkar road. The landmark for Lalbaug cha Raja would be Lalbaug Market.
Road: Several BEST buses ply from all over the city. Since a chunk of the road (starting from Ganesh Gully) is usually closed during all 10 days of the festivals, you can get down at 'Bharatmata Cinema' bus stop and walk all the way till Lalbaug Market. Meanwhile, you can also visit other famous mandals such as 'Mumbai cha Raja', 'Tejukaya mansion' among others on the way. Try and opt for public transport, as parking is not easily available during the festival. If you are traveling by your own vehicle, some of the parking options available include: Kalpataru Pay and Park at S.S Rao Road (near Gandhi Hospital, Parel) with a capacity of 200 cars. M.C.G.M Pay and Park (Lodha) at G.D Ambedkar Road (at Kalachowky) with a capacity of 500 cars. Cottongreen Pay and Park (B.P.T near Cottongreen Railway station) in Kalachowky area, with a capacity of 5000 cars and the M.C.G.M Pay and Park (Peninsula Land) at the Dr. B.A Road near Bawala Compound, Byculla (east), with a capacity of 500 cars. You will then have to walk 10-15 mins towards the main pandal area.
Get ready to welcome Bappa! Do let us know if you would be visiting Lalbaug cha Raja and other mandals in Mumbai.
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Love,
The Dancebee
Shah Rukh Khan and the Return of the 'Angry Young Man' | Jawan
You know what's the power of a good film? The fact that it feels like a festival at the cinemas, and not just any other film that the audience is out to watch on the bring screen (only to bring out their phones and play candy crush in the middle of a crucial scene). Nope, you won't get to see such things around you, because that very person is most likely to break into a dance when 'Zinda Banda' plays. Well, that's Jawan for you. Good ol' entertainment with full-on mass vibes!
And if the record breaking collections (so far) are anything to go by, the film is steadily turning out to be one of 2023's biggest blockbusters. Well, as cinegoers, some of you may have seen the film already. And if not, you ideally don’t need any reason to go watch #Jawan (because YOU MUST). But, if you are someone who isn't too sure or has contemplated booking their tickets, here are 5 reasons why you must go out there and watch Atlee's Bollywood directorial debut:
The magic of SRK
Nobody does it like ‘King Khan’. Period! Shah Rukh Khan puts his heart & soul in a character, and his charm is unmatched. But with #Jawan - be prepared to expect the unexpected. There is a reason why he truly is the ‘last of the superstars’. Jawan feels like a festival at the cinemas, and SRK is THE GOD! You gotta see it to believe it.
Atlee's vision
Needless to say, director Atlee is a genius! Personally, I have loved his work - especially films like Theri, Mersal (and I've always admired how he styled his lead characters, and envisioned a manner in which the film would be presented), and I wholeheartedly appreciate his craft. True to his promise, Jawan is a complete package of pure entertainment, with high octane stylised action and whistle worthy moments. Moreover, the film highlights important social issues and delivers a very strong message - with key moments that tug your heart. Full props to ‘captain’ Atlee for delivering this powerful MASS film!
Plot twists galore
If you are thinking of taking a popcorn break in between the film, drop the idea! You will be hooked (so be prepared and get your stock or popcorn in advance). Jawan is a larger than life film that keeps you on the edge of your seat, all the way till the end credits. With terrific plot twists, surprise elements & thrills (and not to miss - SRK’s cool looks that keep on giving); be prepared for an exciting ride!
Girl power
The Women of Jawan take things a notch higher. Boss Lady Nayanthara steals the show. Her portrayal of ‘Narmada’ is powerful and packs a punch. That swag is just something else. Also, her chemistry with SRK is just so refreshing and lovely! Chief’s army including Sanya Malhotra, Priya Mani, Girija Oak Joshi & co were simply fab. Their backstory is crucial, and will leave you feeling numb. Ridhi Dogra too delivers in a small, but pivotal role. Of course, this appreciation is incomplete without the mention of Deepika Padukone’s impactful cameo. And clearly, nobody does it like her. Roughly 20 mins of screen time and yet, she leaves a mark with her impeccable performance! Plus, some good ol' Padukone-Khan chemistry. At its core, Jawan also celebrates Women and their unstoppable will to fight against all odds.
Behind the scenes
The technical aspects of the film are something to watch out for as well.
Anirudh Ravichander's Bollywood debut is impressive. The man, who recently delivered the chartbuster 'Jailer' soundtrack, has delivered yet again with a powerful album. Songs like Zinda Banda, Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya make you wanna get up and Dance (for real), while Chaleya is so dreamy and beautiful! Plus, the choreography is a big hit, with hook steps becoming popular among dance enthusiasts and fans. I quite liked the hook steps and overall presentation of these songs. My favourite has got to be #NotRamaiyaVastavaiya on the big screen (won’t share spoilers, but stay back during end credits. Vikram Rathore NAILS it). Anirudh's BGM creates a strong impact - especially with all those smashing SRK entries. G.K Vishnu's cinematography is a visual treat! Ruben's editing is crisp and sharp. This one’s a complete team effort!!
Well, I guess those reasons are enough for you to go out there and enjoy this larger than life film on the big screen. This is Shah Rukh Khan's revival of Bollywood's good ol’ Angry Young Man, in his own unique, impressive style. Something that will be remembered for a long, long time!
PS: While I talk about the strengths, I must add - Vijay Sethupathi as Kaali has a strong screen presence and performs well (my only concern was that his character could've been sketched out in a better way. There was a lot of potential).
Love,
Priya Adivarekar aka Dancebee
Lalbaugcha Raja - From the Pages of History
Think of Lalbaugcha Raja and what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Grandeur? Celebrities? Crowd? Wish Fulfilling? Well, Mumbai's very own beloved 'Raja' had humble beginnings. Ever wondered what the initial idols looked like? Or how the mandal was formed? Read on to know all about one of Mumbai's renowned pandals - Lalbaugcha Raja.
The Mandal - which was then known as the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (Lalbaug) was set up in 1934 in a simple locality, which was then known as Peru Chawl. The chawl and nearby market was forced to shut in 1932 and the locals - mostly fishermen and vendors, vowed to get a Ganpati if their wish was fulfilled. As their vow was fulfilled, the locals formed a committee and in 1934, the first ever idol was welcomed! The ganpati became famous as the 'Market cha Raja' or 'Market cha Ganpati'. As more and more devotees began queueing up to make a wish or fulfil their vows, Navsacha Ganpati and Lalbaugcha Raja became popular names.
The Ganpati idol of Lalbaugcha Raja has been created and designed by the Kambli family of Mumbai since 1935. Earlier, the idol would change every year as per theme and backdrop. Every year, the Mandal would pick a unique theme, ranging from independence struggle to mythological stories & social issues. According to locals, the mandal played a key role during the freedom struggle. In 1949, they have even had a Mahatma Gandhi inspired idol.
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| All Archive Images - Credit: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal |
However, post 1990, things changed. The overall set up became much simpler, with just a basic backdrop. The idol was seated on a king style throne. But, the idol features and pose would change every year (till 2007). Some felt it matched the name given by locals, which is - Lalbaug cha Raja (King of Lalbaug). As crowds began to swell, the space required for themes & decorations, also became a major problem (as the pandal lane is narrow, with very little space in and around). Hence, sticking to a standard idol was seen as a good option. Since 2007 (till now), all idols have had the same features and pose. However, since 2015, the latest addition has been a unique throne (prabhaval). Some of the recent ones include Owl in 2016 (Goddess Laxmi's Vahan), and a Kurma Avatar (Turtle) in 2017. During the pandemic, the mandal organised a blood donation drive instead of the usual grand celebration in 2020. The following year, a smaller version of the idol was worshipped by the mandal trustees and members (large scale celebrations were cancelled across the country due to the pandemic, hence devotees were not allowed inside the pandal and other premises).
This year too, the 10-day long celebration will be a grand affair.And, it will also be a poignant moment for several loyal devotees, who have over the years, enjoyed the stunning backdrop and decor created by renowned art director - Late Nitin Chandrakant Desai. Every year, Desai's stunning art work and touch of royalty would turn into a big attraction during the festive season. Post 2015, he also started designing the throne. This year, the celebration shall witness one of Desai's final work as an artist. For this year, the theme is designed to pay a tribute and mark the 350th year of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Based on the 'Raigad Killa' backdrop, Lalbaug cha Raja shall be seen sitting on a majestic 25-ft throne, exactly like the one that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj occupied in the fort. The background of the pandal is said to be inspired by the main entrance of the fort, called the Nagarkhana.
Did you know? In 2011, the Kambli family became the first idol sculptors to patent the Lalbaug cha Raja idol design. As the demand for replicas went up and several other sculptors began copying the idol's style and features, Ratnakar Kambli (who currently heads Kambli arts) applied for a patent, making this the first ever case of patent application for an idol.
Over the years, while themes and idols have changed, one thing remains the same. The mandal, including locals, have always taken a step ahead when it comes to spreading awareness on social issues. Today, while the mandal does not have backdrops based on social activities, they organise events that help several major causes. Some of the prominent causes includes a dialysis centre, regular blood donation drives, plasma donation camp during the covid-19 crisis, computer training institutes with nominal fees, free IAS coaching among others.
No wonder they say - The King's empire is filled with love and support for everyone.
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Love,
The Dancebee
Birthday Special | Priyanka Chopra Quotes on Dreams, Success and Empowerment
With her eyes firmly set on Global domination, she continues to make India proud across the seven seas. Steadily taking over the world, one successful project at a time. From turning recording artist to singing alongside Pitbull, becoming the deliciously evil 'Victoria Leeds' in Baywatch, sweeping awards for her performance as Alex Parrish in Quantico and launching her memoir 'Unfinished'; this girl surely marked her arrival in Hollywood with a bang. Plus, she has been making waves as an entrepreneur with brands like 'Anomaly' among others, while balancing global projects and her Mommy duties with Baby Malti Marie. Fresh from the success of her first global OTT original series 'Citadel' and raring to go with many more projects - our 'desi girl' is unstoppable. We are talking about birthday girl Priyanka Chopra, who clearly believes in the mantra - Can't stop, won't stop!
As the stunning diva celebrates her birthday today - ringing in her 41st year with loved ones and her little angel by her side, and gets ready to set another list of goals for the year ahead, we look back at some of her inspiring statements, curated from our exclusive interviews with the actress. Here's how the Chopra diva continues to motivate us:
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| Image Credit: Jean Claude Dhien for Getty Images Portrait |
From all of us at Team Dancebee, a big Birthday (virtual) hug to Priyanka Chopra! Here's to dominating the world, chasing dreams and creating history.
Are you a PeeCee fan? What's your favourite film starring Ms Chopra? Join the conversation on
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Love,
The Dancebee
Birthday Special | The Inspiring Journey of Ranveer Singh in Quotes
The 'Delhi ka Munda' from Band Baaja Baarat has come a long way. With impressive performances, accolades and awards in his kitty, Ranveer Singh is easily Bollywood's best find this decade. The Bandra boy, who made his debut in 2010, has got some of the best film makers lining up to sign him. With the likes of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Zoya Akhtar and Rohit Shetty already rooting for him, there is no stopping this crazy bundle of talent, whose enthusiasm can put even the best of entertainers to shame. In his eight-year long journey in Bollywood, we have seen the actor take up myriad roles, ranging from swearing on 'Bread Pakodas' as Bittoo Sharma to turning spine chillingly evil as Alauddin Khilji and turning rapper boy with 'Gully Boy'. Never the one to shy away from experiments, Singh has successfully carved a niche of his own and cemented his status in the Indian Film Industry as a Superstar of the current generation.
We love how the actor has never shied away from being his real self! 'Baba' - as he is often called, has always been very genuine and relatable in his conversations. As Ranveer turns 38 today, we take a look at some of the most inspiring quotes about his journey in the industry, picked from our exclusive interactions with the actor.
Happy Birthday, Ranveer Singh!! Here's to many more fabulous films and remarkable performances in the year ahead.
