It's two weeks to Ganesh Chaturthi 2026, and the God Of New Beginnings is already making his way home to many pandals in Mumbai.
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha seated on a majestic throne with Lord Garuda spreading His wings behind the idol makes His way to the Shree Chintamani Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Chinchpokli. All photographs: Sahil Salvi for Rediff
Key Points
- Mumbai's Ganpati Aagman processions drew thousands of devotees as iconic mandals unveiled elaborate idols before Ganesh Chaturthi 2026.
- Several idols reimagined Lord Ganesha through revered saints, Hindu deities and mythological episodes, showcasing Maharashtra's artistic traditions.
- Massive processions, ornate thrones and symbolic themes highlighted the city's blend of devotion, craftsmanship and community participation.
IMAGE: An aerial view of the grand arrival procession of Shree Chintamani Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Chinchpokli, as thousands of devotees accompany Lord Ganesha.
Saint Tukaram-Inspired Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha depicted in the likeness of Sant Tukaram, holding a tanpura, mridang and chipli (hand cymbals), celebrating Maharashtra's Bhakti tradition.
Lord Rama-Inspired Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha portrayed as Lord Rama, poised to hunt down the golden deer, symbolising the episode of Asura Marich from the Ramayana.
Veena-Playing Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha playing a veena with Goddess Saraswati seated below, symbolising music, wisdom and learning.
Lord Shiva-Inspired Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha depicted as Lord Shiva, seated atop Nandi, holding Shiva's traditional attributes.
Khandoba-Inspired Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha portrayed as Khandoba, mounted on a rearing white horse with a warrior's stance.
Sheshnag-Shaded Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha seated on a tiger beneath and another seated on Sheshnag with the protective hood, blending Vaishnav and Shaivite symbolism.
Kumbhar Wadyacha Ganraj
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha in the fierce incarnation of Goddess Kali.
Sea Serpent Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha emerging amid towering sea serpent dragons.
Colaba Raja At CSMT
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha seated on a floral throne accompanied by Goddess Saraswati.
Varaha-Themed Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha with a striking silver hand while Lord Vishnu's Varaha avatar rises prominently in the background.
Throne-Seated Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha seated on an ornate royal throne with an intricately carved backdrop.
Swami Samarth-Inspired Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha portrayed in the likeness of Swami Samarth, complete with the saint's distinctive attire and spiritual aura.
Sea-Life Throne Ganesha
IMAGE: Lord Ganesha seated on a grand throne richly decorated with sea-life motifs, including marine-inspired carvings and ornaments.
Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff
Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
