Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde visits 12 city Ganpati mandals

Shinde's first stop in Pune was the Kasba Ganpati mandal, followed by other prominent Ganesh mandals including Tulsibaug, Guruji Talim, Tilakwada, Dagdusheth Halwai and Akhil Mandai.

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde during aarti at Kasba Ganpati (Manacha Pahila Ganpati) on Wednesday. (Express photo by Arul Horizon)

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who visited a dozen Ganpati mandals in Pune on Wednesday, refrained from making any political statements. Instead, the rebel Shiv Sena leader pointed out that Pune residents are very excited and happy as the state government has removed all Covid-related restrictions on celebrating the festival.

“There were restrictions on celebrating Ganesh festival since 2020 due to the outbreak of Covid-19. This year, the restrictions have been removed so there is excitement everywhere. All Ganesh mandals have put up creative decorations and devotees are turning up in large numbers to visit them,” said Shinde during his visit.

Shinde’s first stop in Pune was the Kasba Ganpati mandal, followed by other prominent Ganesh mandals including Tulsibaug, Guruji Talim, Tilakwada, Dagdusheth Halwai and Akhil Mandai. He visited a total of 12 Ganesh mandals, including one organised by BJP leader and former mayor Murlidhar Mohol and his supporters. Shinde also met BJP legislator Mukta Tilak to enquire about her health. He offered prayers to the Ganesh idol at the

residence of actor Nana Patekar and also planted a tree on the actor’s farm.

This year, Ganeshtosav is being held without any restrictions for the first time in three years, and leaders of all political parties have been visiting Ganesh mandals across Pune. The visit is aimed to boost the morale of workers of political parties, who are actively involved in organising the festival at various mandals. Leaders who have already visited Ganpati mandals in Pune include Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena leader Neelam Gorhe, state Congress chief Nana Patole and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, among others.

NCP leader Ajit Pawar is also scheduled to visit the mandals soon.

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