Showing posts with label Festivals of India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Festivals of India. Show all posts
Lalbaug cha Raja - From the Pages of History | Ganeshotsav 2025
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.
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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).
Adding a divine layer of symbolism and grandeur, this year’s Lalbaug cha Raja is a visual homage to Tirupati Balaji, both in spirit and design. Sculpted by the masterful Santosh Ratnakar Kambli of Murtikar Shree Kambli Arts, the idol dons a regal rani-pink velvet dhoti and an angavastram bearing the sacred SriVari namam — the iconic mark of Lord Venkateswara. His poised stance, with a chakra in one hand and a conch shell in the other, echoes themes of protection, power, and spiritual calm. Framed by golden pillars topped with elephant sculptures and his loyal vaahan, the mushak, the setup resembles a divine palace radiating opulence. The intricate decor, envisioned by art designer Yogesh Popat’s team, beautifully bridges South Indian temple aesthetics with Mumbai’s festive spirit, making this year's celebration both visually captivating and spiritually resonant.
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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The Dancebee
Music | The Ultimate Bollywood Holi Playlist
Holi Hai! It's that time of the year again. Beautiful colours all around, scrumptious sweets to gorge on, and some quality time with your loved ones. If you ignore the annoying revelry and focus on the cultural aspect of Holi, you will realise that this festival is truly beautiful. Also, it goes way beyond the usual elements - water, bhaang, colours - that the festival has gained popularity for. It marks the arrival of spring, signifies the victory of good over evil and is celebrated as a 'thanksgiving' by the farmers for good harvest. The festival is spread over two days - while the first day is celebrated as Holika Dahan, the second is known as Dhulvandhan. In some parts of the country, celebrations continue all the way up to Rang Panchami (fifth day of the second fortnight in the month of Phalguna).
Well, if you are among those who prefers celebrating the festival with loved ones, without the usual revelry, with just a simple puja, good food and some fun time with music or karaoke (Nope! Not the one with tower speakers), then we've got the perfect filmy addition for you. Over the years, Holi has played an important role in most popular Bollywood films. It is one of Bolly land's most favourite on-screen festival (Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri comes a close second). Some of our favourite characters have displayed various emotions, including love, fun, sorrow, drama and even revenge with Holi as the backdrop (and an entertaining track to go with it). With Holi coming up on March 9 and 10 this year, we've got the ultimate Bollywood dance / karaoke playlist for you. Read on to know if your favourite is on the list!
Balam Pichkari
Film: Yeh Jaawani Hai Deewani
Singer: Vishal Dadlani, Shalmali Kholgade
Music: Pritam
Is there anyone who doesn't love this chartbuster track? (or Deepika and Ranbir's fabulous chemistry)
Holi Khele Raghuveera
Film: Baghban
Singers: Amitabh Bachchan, Sukhwinder Singh, Alka Yagnik
Music: Aadesh Shrivastava
This one's our favourite for a group karaoke. And later, we shake a leg too!
Do Me A Favour Let's Play Holi
Film: Waqt - A race against time
Singers: Anu Malik, Sunidhi Chauhan
Music: Anu Malik
Don't tell me you haven't tried dancing to this track, while singing it in 'Anu Malik' style.
Badri ki Dulhania
Film: Badrinath ki Dulhania
Singers: Dev Negi, Ikka, Monali Thakur, Neha Kakkar
Music: Tanishk Bagchi
This one's a hit dance number, especially among millennials. This time, we are definitely dancing our heart out on this fun track!
Rang Barse
Film: Silsila
Singer: Amitabh Bachchan
Music: Shiv - Hari
The perfect Holi classic! This one never gets old. Who's up for some Sr Bachchan inspired moves?
Go Pagal
Film: Jolly LLB 2
Singers: Raftaar, Nindy Kaur
Music: Manj Musik
We are definitely trying out that fun signature step tomorrow! Who's up for this?
Aaj Na Chhodenge
Film: Kati Patang
Singers: Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar
Music: R.D Burman
This good ol' composition by Pancham da will top every single Holi playlist. Also, we can never get enough of Kaka aka Rajesh Khanna's signature moves.
Here's wishing all our lovely readers across the globe a very Happy and Blessed Holi - in advance! Have fun and make it a one to remember, without troubling the animals and humans around you. Also, please save water and other resources for a better tomorrow.
What's your favourite Holi number? Leave a comment below or
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Love,
The Dancebee
Bappa Morya Re Series | Part I - Lalbaugcha Raja
With less than 24 hours to go for one of the year's biggest festivals, the countdown to Ganesh Utsav has officially begun. In fact, it kickstarted almost a fortnight ago, with multiple 'aagman' events and first look photo sessions. But, the city was waiting with bated breath to catch a glimpse of the king, none other than the renowned - Lalbaugcha Raja (also locally known as the Marketcha Raja). The first look was revealed earlier this week and needless to say, the charming idol left everyone mesmerised.
In it's 84th year, the folks at Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal have created a stunning gold Raj Mahal as the backdrop. It has been designed by art director Nitin Desai, whose impeccable work this year looks royal and attractive. Devotees who were eager to get a sneak peek at the idol's throne (ganesh prabhaval) this year were in for a pleasant surprise, as the King was seen seated on a gorgeous turtle throne. The overall look of the idol (inclusive of throne), created by Santosh Kambli, has been designed on the lines of Lord Vishnu's second avatar - Kurma, who according to the puranas, appeared at the time of crisis in the cosmic equilibrium.
This year, the mandal was also in the news for getting an insurance cover of Rs 51 crore, which includes not just the idol and ornaments, but also their volunteers, mandap and third-party liabilities among others. For DTH and live coverage on mobile, the mandal has joined hands with Shemaroo, continuing their 6-7 year association.
For our those of you who aren't aware Lalbaug cha Raja has been well known as the 'Navsacha raja'. Especially among those who make a vow and come back the following year to fulfil their 'Navas'. These devotees join the 'Navsachi Rang' (queue for devotees with a vow). Every year, lakhs of devotees stand for more than 20 hours (the number goes up to almost 30 hours during the last 2-3 days) and are the only ones (apart from VVIP dignitaries) who get the golden opportunity to rest their head on the Raja's paduka and take his blessings. I have personally had the fortune of being a part of this 'Navas' queue several years back and honestly, was super impressed with the arrangements. For those who can't stand for long hours, there is a 'Mukh Darshan' queue in and around the old Digvijay Mills compound. According to the mandal, they are expected to see a footfall of over 1 - 2 million devotees during the 11 day festival this year. And just like most of you, we can't wait to witness the grandeur of Lalbaugcha Raja. Stay tuned for more updates!
Mandal: Lalbaugcha Raja
Year: 84th
Area: Lalbaug (Mumbai)
How to get there: Nearest Station - Chinchpokli / Currey Road (Central), Lower Parel (Western)
By Road - Stay on Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and take the exit before Lalbaug flyover (do not take the flyover). Drive straight towards Lalbaug market.
Are you planning to visit Lalbaugcha Raja this year? Or have you taken a darshan before? Share your experience below or Join the conversation on
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The Dancebee
When the Raja beckons | Lalbaugcha Raja Photo Feature
"हे देवा दिली हाक उद्धार कराया
आभाळाची छाया तुझी, समिंदराची माया"
The eleven day long divine atmosphere experienced during the period of Ganesh Utsav in Mumbai cannot be matched. People dancing with joy, thronging pandals and soaking in the festive fun is a common sight in the entire city. The eye catching streets glimmer with bright lights and the whiff of fragrant flowers bring a warm smile on every individual's face. Being a Ganesh bhakt and self confessed fan of visiting different pandals to catch a glimpse of my favourite god in different forms, I always carry my camera along. The pandal hopping session began with Lalbaugcha Raja aka Market cha Ganpati in Lalbaug (currently in it's 81st year), one of the oldest and most revered pandals in the city. Right from the masses to the celebrity folks, no one can get enough of this adorable idol with beautiful eyes and super cute cheeks.
Various citizens run, push and jump in the crowd, only to catch a glimpse of him. They carry flowers and coconuts, asking the king to fulfill their wishes. But the lord, unperturbed by the hullabaloo around him, is calm and composed. His smile, which makes him look adorable as ever, stays on. Never mind the hundreds of volunteers who scream "Pudhe chala" at the top of their voice, the benevolent Raja keeps an eye on all his bhaktas and listens to them patiently.
Glimpses of our special meeting with the Raja.
आभाळाची छाया तुझी, समिंदराची माया"
The eleven day long divine atmosphere experienced during the period of Ganesh Utsav in Mumbai cannot be matched. People dancing with joy, thronging pandals and soaking in the festive fun is a common sight in the entire city. The eye catching streets glimmer with bright lights and the whiff of fragrant flowers bring a warm smile on every individual's face. Being a Ganesh bhakt and self confessed fan of visiting different pandals to catch a glimpse of my favourite god in different forms, I always carry my camera along. The pandal hopping session began with Lalbaugcha Raja aka Market cha Ganpati in Lalbaug (currently in it's 81st year), one of the oldest and most revered pandals in the city. Right from the masses to the celebrity folks, no one can get enough of this adorable idol with beautiful eyes and super cute cheeks.
Various citizens run, push and jump in the crowd, only to catch a glimpse of him. They carry flowers and coconuts, asking the king to fulfill their wishes. But the lord, unperturbed by the hullabaloo around him, is calm and composed. His smile, which makes him look adorable as ever, stays on. Never mind the hundreds of volunteers who scream "Pudhe chala" at the top of their voice, the benevolent Raja keeps an eye on all his bhaktas and listens to them patiently.
Glimpses of our special meeting with the Raja.
All those who are in Mumbai right now (or belong to the city), do try and visit the pandal to experience everything that I have stated in this post.
Ganpati bappa morya!
Photography: Priya Adivarekar
Venue: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Mumbai
Celebrations Galore | Festivals of India - Photo Blog
This collection is close to my heart. As much as I love my country, I love the festivals celebrated here. We celebrate festivals almost every other day. From Makar Sankranti to Holi, from Gokulashtami to Christmas, these festivals give us a reason to celebrate (and to shop), every now and then.
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| Shivaji Park Durga Pujo 2012 |
That's when my camera plays an important role. These pictures are captured using a Canon rebel T2i.
At every event or occasion, I try to capture every moment, be it the festive spirit, the crowds, expressions or the Idol. Although I missed capturing the wonderful Gokulashtami celebrations this year, Ganesh Utsav and Navratri more than made up for it. I ended up capturing 5000-6000 odd pictures from Ganesh Utsav to Diwali. These are the three most important festivals that are celebrated on a large scale, with a lot of pomp, in my house.
Pictures in this post are taken across Mumbai, including some popular Pandals! And once again, let me remind you. For me, photography is just a hobby. There is a lot of learn at every step, and your feedback is always welcome.
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| Saibaba Punyatithi Palkhi Solha 2012 (Mumbai) |
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| Lalbaugcha Raja 2012 |
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| Sarvajanik Durga Pujo 2012 (Wadala, Mumbai) |
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| An artist works on giving the Ganapati idols some final touches. |
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| Happy Diwali |
Hope you liked the pictures! Do you have any favourites?
Let me know via comments, tweet or an email!
