Showing posts with label Maharashtra. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Maharashtra. Show all posts
Lalbaug cha Raja - From the Pages of History | Ganeshotsav 2026
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, the theme at this year's Lalbaug cha Raja is inspired by Lord Mahadev, both in spirit and design. Devotees are waiting to catch a glimpse of the Idol and overall look; as the masterful Santosh Ratnakar Kambli of Murtikar Shree Kambli Arts works on crafting it.
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
Things to do in Ratnagiri (Part I) | Travel
Ratnagiri - the land of Lord Parshurama. A beautiful district that houses scenic mountains and clean, virgin beaches. Situated on the Arabian coast, Ratnagiri is a part of the Konkan division; a place that has my heart (and soul). While most tourists and non-Maharashtrians think of Ratnagiri only when the Alphonso season arrives, there is more to this marvellous district than you could think of. Of late, several tourists have begun flocking to this district on long weekends, to soak in some sunshine and laze around on the virgin beaches (though, I secretly pray and hope they don't turn into another Calangute. Some tourists can certainly do with travel manners. Stop littering, please). As we celebrate World Tourism Day, I take this opportunity to talk about a district [and division of Mahahrashtra] that is close to my heart. A two part Feature series and detailed guide, that will help you plan your next trip to Ratnagiri, with must visit areas and more.
Beaches
Well known for it's long coastline and quiet, calm ambience, Ratnagiri beaches are a far cry from the commercial beaches that you often get to see. Take your pick from a variety of beaches including Bhatye, Ganpatipule, and the twin beaches - Aare, Ware.
Bhatye: Hardly 2kms away from the main city. The sight of white sand on one side and tall trees on the other is enough to let your stressful mind attain some peach.
Aare-Ware: For those who love scenic views, Aare-Ware is the place to be. Stunning view of the long coastline awaits, as you walk ahead. For photography lovers, drive along the Ganpatipule route and halt at the Aare-Ware junction on the top of the hill. Quench your thirst with a glass of home-made Kokam sarbat and click away. One end of the beach also houses some water sports facilities.
Mandvi: For commercial beach lovers, the Mandvi or Kala Samudra beach is a must visit, complete with food stalls, rides and one of a kind black sand beach.
Temples
Ratnagiri is home to some of the most popular and ancient temples. Spiritual tourists can dedicate an entire day to temple visits, and drive back feeling divine. Some of the most popular temples include the Mahakali temple at Adivare, Ganpati temple at Ganpatipule, the Pawas temple among others. Ratnagiri is also one of the rare districts in India that houses a temple dedicated to Lord Surya aka Sun.
Mahakali temple, Adivare: One of the oldest and most popular temples in Ratnagiri, the Mahakali temple [home to Goddess Kali] is situated approximately 35kms away from the main city, in a village called Adivare. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily, while the numbers hit over a lakh during the Navratri festival. The main temple area also houses two separate sanctum sanatoriums for Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Laxmi. Several celebrities are known visit the temple during their work trip to Ratnagiri.
Insider Tip: Take a halt at the tea centre situated next to the temple. They serve some lip smacking Vada Pav, Spicy Kanda Bhaji and cutting chai.
Swami Swaroopanand Temple, Pawas: A beautiful temple nestled in the quiet lanes of a village named Pawas, the Swami Swarupanand Temple is approximately 20kms away from Ratnagiri. Located inside a well maintained complex, the temple houses Swami's samadhi, as well as a beautiful idol of Lord Vitthal and Rakhumai. Several copies of the popular holy text - Gnayeshwari, as kept inside the temple. It is said, that you can pick up a copy and randomly open any page. The verses on that particular page shall have the perfect answer to a misery, doubt or problem faced by you. I have personally done this on several occasions, and trust me, it has worked. This is no superstition, but a matter of pure faith. Also, Dnayeshwari in general is a wonderful book. The trust serves delicious Khichdi as part of their Mahaprasad during lunch hours, everyday.
Insider Tip: Head to Vijay's opposite the temple complex, and stock up on your favourite Mango based food products.
Ganpatipule: A destination that is slowly becoming a favourite among Maharashtra and Gujarat based tourists, Ganpatipule is a small village located on the Konkan coastline. The village is well known for it's popular, wish fulfilling Ganesha temple, which is located on a beach which goes by the same name. This temple faces the Arabian sea, and a coastline, which is breathtakingly beautiful. The Swayambhu (self originated) idol placed inside the sanctum sanatorium is 400 years old. Instead of the usual temple pradiksahana, devotees perform a pradikshana via a special marg around the hill behind this temple. This distance of this marg is approximately one kilometre and the surroundings are absolutely beautiful. After a peaceful darshan at the temple, you can relax by the beach side. Sample some of the local Kanda Bhaji, Thalipeeth, or savour the never-ending fresh Coconut Water. With the popularity, the Ganpatipule beach has fast become a commercial area (at least, from what I have been noticing since the last decade). A sincere request to everyone though - please don't litter or leave the temple & beach premises dirty. Seeing the beach in a mess is such an eyesore!
Insider Tip: If you are around during Lunch time, don't leave without savouring the Bhog prasad (post afternoon Aarti, till 2 pm). The khichdi and fresh mango pickle served here is to die for!
That's it for this part of the feature! In the next part, we shall explore some exciting sight seeing destinations and also fill you in with complete details on stay, travel and the areas to sample local cuisines.
Images Credit [except Swami Swaroopanand temple]: From the author's personal collection
Love,
The Dancebee
Beaches
Well known for it's long coastline and quiet, calm ambience, Ratnagiri beaches are a far cry from the commercial beaches that you often get to see. Take your pick from a variety of beaches including Bhatye, Ganpatipule, and the twin beaches - Aare, Ware.
Bhatye: Hardly 2kms away from the main city. The sight of white sand on one side and tall trees on the other is enough to let your stressful mind attain some peach.
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| Image captured outside Bhatye Beach using a regular point and shoot camera, while traveling in a car at 40kmph |
Mandvi: For commercial beach lovers, the Mandvi or Kala Samudra beach is a must visit, complete with food stalls, rides and one of a kind black sand beach.
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| Shot taken from Mandvi beach, moments before the fishermen wind up for the day |
Temples
Ratnagiri is home to some of the most popular and ancient temples. Spiritual tourists can dedicate an entire day to temple visits, and drive back feeling divine. Some of the most popular temples include the Mahakali temple at Adivare, Ganpati temple at Ganpatipule, the Pawas temple among others. Ratnagiri is also one of the rare districts in India that houses a temple dedicated to Lord Surya aka Sun.
Mahakali temple, Adivare: One of the oldest and most popular temples in Ratnagiri, the Mahakali temple [home to Goddess Kali] is situated approximately 35kms away from the main city, in a village called Adivare. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily, while the numbers hit over a lakh during the Navratri festival. The main temple area also houses two separate sanctum sanatoriums for Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Laxmi. Several celebrities are known visit the temple during their work trip to Ratnagiri.
Insider Tip: Take a halt at the tea centre situated next to the temple. They serve some lip smacking Vada Pav, Spicy Kanda Bhaji and cutting chai.
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| Captured during the temple renovation process, approximately 2 years ago |
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| While major parts of the temple were renovated, these ancient murals on the ceiling remain intact and have been given a colour makeover. These murals depict Hindu mythological stories |
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| The newly renovated temple area, including a dedicated space for Navratri Havan |
Kanikaditya Mandir, Kasheli: Situated in the Rajapur taluka of Ratnagiri district, in a small village named Kasheli; Kanikaditya temple is one of the very few temples in India that is dedicated to Lord Surya / Sun. Kasheli is approximately a 30km drive from Ratnagiri city. Like several temples in India, this too has an interesting story behind it and the locals are always eager to share mythological stories, facts and trivia with tourists.
Swami Swaroopanand Temple, Pawas: A beautiful temple nestled in the quiet lanes of a village named Pawas, the Swami Swarupanand Temple is approximately 20kms away from Ratnagiri. Located inside a well maintained complex, the temple houses Swami's samadhi, as well as a beautiful idol of Lord Vitthal and Rakhumai. Several copies of the popular holy text - Gnayeshwari, as kept inside the temple. It is said, that you can pick up a copy and randomly open any page. The verses on that particular page shall have the perfect answer to a misery, doubt or problem faced by you. I have personally done this on several occasions, and trust me, it has worked. This is no superstition, but a matter of pure faith. Also, Dnayeshwari in general is a wonderful book. The trust serves delicious Khichdi as part of their Mahaprasad during lunch hours, everyday.
Insider Tip: Head to Vijay's opposite the temple complex, and stock up on your favourite Mango based food products.
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| Image Credit: Ratnagiri Info |
Insider Tip: If you are around during Lunch time, don't leave without savouring the Bhog prasad (post afternoon Aarti, till 2 pm). The khichdi and fresh mango pickle served here is to die for!
That's it for this part of the feature! In the next part, we shall explore some exciting sight seeing destinations and also fill you in with complete details on stay, travel and the areas to sample local cuisines.
Images Credit [except Swami Swaroopanand temple]: From the author's personal collection
Love,
The Dancebee
#WaterForAll | Save Water, Act Now!
Recently, I was browsing through a few articles, when I came across a report that read - Only 1% water left in Marathwada (a region in Maharashtra). In addition, the MET department also announced a red alert in Marathwada. More than 9 million farmers in Maharashtra alone have been impacted, with 3,225 turning to suicide as their only way to escape this daily ordeal and stress. Around 17,000 villages continue to suffer. For someone who has always tried to save water in every possible way, these reports and statistics leave me speechless.
We all know how the drought and water crisis has engulfed major parts of the country, especially Maharashtra since a few years. Things in 2016 only turned worse, thanks to very little rainfall in the year gone by. So much, that women in some households were forced to collect all the used water (from basic routines like washing and bathing) and boil it in order to quench their family's thirst. I recently got back from a trip across some parts of Maharashtra and the situation was indeed very grim. Lakes, crops and trees were dried up, minimal water left in wells, and the locals would like at a bottle of water with eyes full of hope. They don't need money, gadgets or luxury. All they ask for is what qualifies as a human being's basic need - Water. You need to see the thirst and need for water in the eyes of those who don't have water. Perhaps, only then will you relate to those who are facing this serious crisis in our state and other parts of the country.
These are just a few of the many steps that we can take to save water. Also, one very important thing. This shouldn't apply to us only when we see / read about a serious issue of scarcity. Nor should it become a one-off thing only when festivals like Holi are celebrated. It should naturally become a part of our daily routine. And no, don't try to do it merely for an Instagram photo-op.
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| We all know the impact of trees on rain, local ecosystem and the water cycle. Yet, we continue to see trees being axed and chopped left, right and centre. Mangroves and Park are making way for buildings. No one will survive to see this 'development', if we don't have water to drink. So please, plant trees! |
Last night, I strongly felt the need to write this post, thus opening a discussion on the issue of water crisis and ways to save it, hoping that this might wake up a few ignorant minds. Saving water is not rocket science, really. All it needs is a little bit of common sense and some basic changes to your everyday routine. I never celebrated Holi with colours and water. Not even as a child. Similarly, I switched to bucket bath and ditched the shower. I feel blessed to have parents who inculcated the right values and lessons, especially when it comes to taking care of nature and mother earth. I brought about various changes in my routine that might just be a small drop in the ocean. I am not saying I am perfect and I continue to make alterations. But hey, every drop counts and like they say, change begins at home. Some may say, ditching Holi celebrations is not our cup of tea. Fair enough! But, what is stopping you from adopting other measures?
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| Image source: Greenpeace |
This post is more than just a lifestyle article on our blog. It is an honest appeal to all of you. We request you to bring about these changes, even if it is one step at a time. If we talk about equality, then let's try and make water available to one and all. Water is precious, and every drop counts. Let's not wait for a disastrous day when water becomes a luxury (which for some, it already is, thanks to water tankers and packaged drinking water). A simple 'change' in your lifestyle can help 'change' someone's life. This one important step can help save Maharashtra from losing its beloved citizens to suicides and future misery. Think about it!
If you have a suggestion / tip to save water efficiently, we want you to share it with the world. Leave a comment below or Tweet to us at @priyaadivarekar with the hashtag #WaterForAll
We will compile and share all the useful tips (with due credits to the contributor) in our next post.
Let's make this world a better place to live in.
Love,
The Dancebee
Top 10 Marathi Films - Part 2
As promised, here's the second part of my post: Top 10 Marathi films you must watch.
Once again, the post only has a few films (as of July 6 2012).
With endless Marathi films making a mark, guess a third part should be on it's way.
Golmaal (Marathi)
Starring Bharat Jadhav, Jitendra Joshi, Sunil Tawde
Once again, the post only has a few films (as of July 6 2012).
With endless Marathi films making a mark, guess a third part should be on it's way.
Golmaal (Marathi)
Starring Bharat Jadhav, Jitendra Joshi, Sunil Tawde
Directed by - P.R.Raorane
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| Photo credit: newmarathi.com |
This 2006 film didn't create a stir at the Box-office, but I can watch this film a hundred times and never feel bored. The dialogues were simply hilarious. Bharat Jadhav as the con-businessman did a brilliant job. This movie was almost like a Marathi version of the Akshay Kumar - Shahid Kapoor starrer Deewane huye pagaal, but the humor in this film is unbeatable. Sunil Tawde has outdone himself. The situations in this film will make you laugh like crazy. Dialogues by Sachin Darekar are the soul of this film. I mean where would you get to hear stuff like "Aamhi Kohlapur la centrally Air-condition karnaar aahot." Music by Avdhoot gupte was good. If you are down and out or stressed, then make sure you grab a copy of this film and watch it!
Shikshanachya Aaicha Gho
Starring Bharat Jadhav, Saksham Kulkarni
Starring Bharat Jadhav, Saksham Kulkarni
Directed by - Mahesh Manjrekar
This 2010 film is a must watch for all those parents who believe that only good grades can assure a successful life for their child. Shrinivas Rane (Saksham Kulkarni) is very good at cricket, but never manages to score well in his exams. His father Madhukar Rane (gives me a whack or two everyday for not completing his homework or for not scoring well in exams. The father-son relationship deteriorates and one day, Madhukar does something so serious to Shree that their life changes within a second. This film is about Madhukar's struggle, who wants every parent to know that beating their kids and shouting at them everyday is of no use. He wants them to know that letting their child excel in what he/she likes is extremely important. Alas! Madhukar learns this very late. Performance wise, Both Bharat Jadhav and Saksham Kulkarni have done a brilliant job. The emotional and funny scenes are very well tackled. The supporting cast is also good. Mahesh Manjrekar made a serious attempt to reach out to all those parents who have been torturing their children for no reason. And the attempt was successful.
Harishchandrachi Factory
Starring Nandu Madhav, Vibhavari Deshpande, Vaibhav Mangale
Starring Nandu Madhav, Vibhavari Deshpande, Vaibhav Mangale
Directed by - Paresh Mokashi
How can I not add this film to my list? After all, This movie talks about the Beginnings of Cinema and That too, In a brilliant way! "Father of Cinema" in India, Dadasaheb Phalke accidentally stumbled across a tent theatre that was screening a silent motion picture. Thats when the idea of film making stuck him. Along with his hardworking family, He ventured into an area that was unknown to contemporary India. This movie traces the journey of Dadasaheb Phalke & The making of the 1st Indian feature film "Raja Harishchandra". Nandu Madhav has essayed the role of Dadasaheb Phalke brilliantly. The kids are super cute & Vibhavri as Phalke's wife is charming. The direction (By Paresh Mokashi) is bang on. Its a flawless film. Not to forget, Nitin chandrakant Desai's beautiful art direction adds more charm to the film. A must watch for all Cinema lovers & those who are studying the History of Cinema.
Vihir
Starring Girish Kulkarni, Amruta Subhash, Mandar, Dr. Mohan Agashe
Starring Girish Kulkarni, Amruta Subhash, Mandar, Dr. Mohan Agashe
Directed by Umesh Kulkarni
This movie can be described as a "Cinematic Masterstroke."Movies like Vihir and Shwaas added a new dimension to the Marathi film industry. Its a story of two adolescent boys, Sameer and Nachiket (cousins who are best friends) standing on the cross roads of life. They need to choose between the life that leads to a petty worldly small existence or the life of free existence that would let them spread their wings and soar high in open skies.The boys play a game of hide and seek in a rather unusual way. Where one cousin hides in death. And the other is looking for him in the life around him. Samir's search leads him towards the experience of oneness where he can unite with Nachiket again. The movie is not just a source of entertainment, its an experience. The story and screenplay (Girish Kulkarni, Sati Bhave) is so well written. I think this movie is a must for all those folks out there who love watching films that make them feel blessed. It is a delight for every film lover!
Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy
Starring Sachin Khedekar, Mahesh Manjrekar
Starring Sachin Khedekar, Mahesh Manjrekar
Directed by - Santosh Manjrekar
This one is a winner in every sense! It has all that a typical movie buff would want, Action, Masala, Emotions, Comedy. It took Maharashtra by storm. For more than a year, The tagline "Garv aahe mala Maharashtriya aslaycha" was a huge hit. This movie walked away with all the awards in the Marathi films category in 2009. Mi Shivaji Raje Bhosale Boltoy is about a simple man, Dinkar Bhosale (Sachin Khedekar) who is frustrated with the way Maharashtrians are treated everywhere. Even at home, his daughter wants to do away with the "Bhosale" surname, his son is annoyed with him as he does want to give in to corruption just to get admission in a reputed college, his wife does not like the way he saves money. His frustration brings Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to life, who does not like the fact that he has given up so easily. That's when the real drama starts & Mr.Bhosale stands up against all the illegal activities in Mumbai & reaches out to all the Maharashtrians. The cast was just bang on. Khedekar's performance created a great impact. It made us wake up & think about the on-goings in our state (Hope someday everyone wakes up & works towards helping our city get out of real trouble). Suchitra Bandekar was a delight to watch. Mahesh Manjrekar as Shivaji Maharaj was good & so was Makarand Anaspure as his Mawla. Dunno how Mahesh Manjrekar managed to come with such a fantastic,original story. The title track "Hey raje" was a hit. The dialogues (Sanjay Pawar, Mahesh Majrekar) added a lot of impact as well. If dramatic films with a touch of History are your thing, then THIS ONE IS A MUST WATCH!
There you go! 10 marathi films that stood out for me. Here's a list of some more brilliant films that also deserve a special mention.
1. Matichya Chuli - Starring Vandana Gupte, Sudhir Joshi, Ankush Chaudhary
Directed by - Sudesh Manjrekar, Atul Kale
Must Watch because - A heart warming,emotional story of a family and their usual problems.
2. De Dhakka - Starring Makarand Anaspure, Siddharth Jadhav, Shivaji Satam
Directed by - Sudesh Manjrekar, Atul Kale
Must watch because - it has a brilliant message. You should never underestimate any individual's talent. The movie has some amazing dialogues & the story is fresh & original.
3. Dombivili Fast - Staring Sandeep Kulkarni, Shilpa Tulaskar
Directed by - Nishikant Kamat
Must watch because - This movie changed the face of marathi films. Part of the 'social' genre. Sandeep Kulkarni's performance was outstanding. Nishikant Kamat later directed the Hindi film Mumbai Meri Jaan.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a DVD/VCD or a Blu Ray of these wonderful movies and Watch them now!
Love,
The Dancebee
Love,
The Dancebee
