13 September,2026 02:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mumbai Cha Raja first look unveiled in Lalbaug (Pic/Screengrab from YouTube)
The first look of the iconic Mumbai Cha Raja idol of the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal in Ganesh Galli was unveiled at 1:30 pm on Sunday, September 13.
The unveiling of city's one of the most iconic idol 'Mumbai Cha Raja' marks the beginning of the mandal's 99th year. This also marks a significant milestone in its long-standing Ganeshotsav tradition.
The first look ceremony was organised for media personnel and devotees at 2:00 pm on Sunday.
The unveiling of Mumbai Cha Raja, Ganesh Galli, comes ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, as Mumbai prepares for the annual 10-day Ganeshotsav celebrations, which draw lakhs of devotees to prominent Ganesh mandals across the city.
Earlier on Friday evening, Mumbai's iconic Lalbaugcha Raja 2026 idol was unveiled at Lalbaug Market, giving devotees the first glimpse of the much-awaited Ganpati ahead of the city's Ganeshotsav 2026 celebrations.
A large number of devotees and media representatives gathered at the venue to catch the first glimpse of Lalbaugcha Raja, popularly known as the âNavsacha Ganpati', ahead of the 93rd Ganeshotsav celebrations, which begin on September 14.
The darbar of Lalbaugcha Raja has been adorned with intricate silver work this year, adding to the grandeur of the setting around the iconic idol.
The main entrance to the pandal has been designed as a replica of the famous Meenakshi Temple in South India. An image of Lord Shiva has also been installed above the entrance, adding a prominent religious element to the pandal's design.
The idol of Lalbaugcha Raja is seated on the throne in a benevolent and loving form. The first glimpse of the deity is an emotional moment for many devotees, who gather at Lalbaug every year seeking blessings and darshan.
The Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal organised a special photo session for media representatives ahead of the festival, allowing them to capture the idol before the commencement of the celebrations.
The announcement regarding the first look was issued by Balasaheb Kamble, president of the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, and honorary secretary Sudhir Sitaram Salvi.
