Lalbaug cha Raja 2025 | Darshan, Aarti Timings, Travel and Other Details
Ganesh Utsav is just a few days away, and devotees across the city are awaiting the first glimpse of Bappa with utmost patience and heartfelt excitement. Mumbaikars are all set to celebrate the much-awaited festival, and if you're out and about in the city, you will already spot various events marking the ‘Aagman Sohala’ (the ceremonial welcome of Lord Ganesha).
One of the most iconic and beloved pandals in Mumbai, Lalbaug cha Raja, is once again in the spotlight. Known for its spiritual significance and magnificent setups every year, the mandal is gearing up to welcome lakhs of devotees. The first look of Lalbaug cha Raja was unveiled on August 24, and Bappa’s divine presence left everyone in awe.
A Royal Tribute to Tirupati Balaji
This year’s 10-day celebration is nothing short of grand. Lalbaug cha Raja has been sculpted by the renowned Santosh Ratnakar Kambli of Murtikar Shree Kambli Arts, and the idol itself is a breathtaking tribute to Tirupati Balaji. Dressed in a regal rani-pink velvet dhoti and an angavastram adorned with the sacred SriVari namam, the divine mark of Lord Venkateswara; Bappa’s look this year blends traditional elegance with deep symbolism. In one hand, he holds a chakra, and in the other, a conch shell. Both powerful symbols of divinity, strength, and protection. His serene expression radiates calm and blessings. The idol is flanked by golden pillars, topped with intricately crafted elephants and his trusted vaahan, the mushak, creating the aura of a royal golden palace. The decor, designed by Yogesh Popat’s team, draws inspiration from South Indian temple architecture while maintaining the spirit of Mumbai’s vibrant celebration.
Darshan Details for Devotees
Like every year, devotees have two Darshan options. The first is the Mukh Darshan queue, which allows visitors to have Bappa’s Darshan from a short distance. This queue is relatively quick, usually taking around 30-45 minutes.
The second option is the Navsachi Rang, a special line for devotees who have made vows and wish to seek blessings through charan sparsh (touching the feet of the idol on the main podium). This queue involves a much longer wait, typically 10 to 11 hours, and can extend to 18 hours on especially crowded days, such as weekends.
Both queues will begin with a morning aarti at 4:00 AM on August 27, 2025. Darshan will remain open round-the-clock until Visarjan Day, which falls on September 6, 2025.
Travel Information for Devotees
If you are planning to visit, here’s how you can reach the pandal:
By train, those on the Central line can get down at either Chinchpokli or Byculla station. If you’re traveling via the Western line, the nearest stop is Lower Parel. From there, it’s about a 7 to 10-minute walk. The Mukh Darshan queue can be accessed from B.R. Ambedkar Road. A useful landmark to look out for is the Lalbaug Market.
By road, several BEST buses operate from all parts of the city. However, keep in mind that a portion of the road near Ganesh Gully is usually closed during the 10-day festival. You can get off at Bharatmata Cinema bus stop and walk toward Lalbaug Market. On your way, you can also visit other prominent mandals such as Mumbai cha Raja and Tejukaya Mansion.
While public transport is highly recommended due to traffic and limited space, if you're planning to drive, there are a few pay-and-park facilities available in the area, including locations near S.S. Rao Road (Parel), G.D. Ambedkar Road (Kalachowky), Cottongreen (near the railway station), and Dr. B.A. Road near Byculla (East). From most of these parking spots, expect to walk around 10 to 15 minutes to reach the main pandal area.
Will you be visiting Lalbaug cha Raja or exploring other mandals across the city? We’d love to know! Share your experiences, photos, and moments with us.
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