Awards for mandals, drone shows: Govt gears up grand celebration of Ganeshotsav

In July, the government had announced Ganeshotsav as the state festival.

“As per the government’s decision, we have announced awards for Ganesh mandals that adhere to religious traditions and also promote eco-friendly practices. A drone show will be organised at Girgaon Chowpatty. Public spaces across Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, Mumbai and other parts of the state will be illuminated to mark the occasion,” Shelar said.

From this year, a dedicated digital platform will be created for streaming of prominent temples and sarvajanik Ganeshotsav mandals across the state.

“We are also introducing schemes to provide financial grants for devotional materials for bhajan mandals during the festival. We are committed to ensuring that the arrival of Lord Ganesha is celebrated with grandeur not only in Maharashtra but also abroad,” the minister said.

The state government has issued two government resolutions outlining competitions and various programmes, planning and coordination of which will be carried out by PL Deshpande Kala Academy and the Directorate of Cultural Affairs.

As part of the declaration of Ganeshotsav as the state festival, a logo will also be unveiled.

Among the events planned for the celebrations are cultural programmes to showcase the state’s art, culture and traditions, which will be held not only in Maharashtra, but also in other states and even in select foreign countries with significant Marathi-speaking communities.

The government will also provide special recognition to films depicting Ganpati traditions, art and culture.

Ganpati-themed postage stamps and coins will be released as part of the celebrations.

The government will also arrange transport facilities for domestic and international tourists during the visarjan (immersion) ceremony.