Mumbaicha Maharaja returns in a smaller avatar, but the celebrations remain grand
The 42-foot idol of ‘Mumbaicha Maharaja’, known as ‘Khetwadi cha Lambodara’, is presented in the Swananda avatar — the heavenly form of Lord Ganesha. PIC/Ronak Mastakar
Every year during Ganeshotsav, Khetwadi in South Mumbai captures the city’s attention, as each lane is known for its majestic idols and spectacular pandals featuring innovative themes.
Established in 1962, the Khetwadi 11th Galli Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal is celebrating its 64th year of festivities. This year, the 42-foot idol of ‘Mumbaicha Maharaja’, also known as ‘Khetwadi cha Lambodara’, is in the Swananda avatar, informed Hemant Dixit, President of the mandal.
This year, on Sunday (August 10), the mandal unveiled the breathtaking idol of Lord Ganesha, making it a major attraction for huge crowds of devotees and visitors.
In 2024, the mandal hosted a 47-foot idol, while in 2023, it featured a 45-foot idol. When asked about reducing the idol’s height, he said there were no specific reasons for lowering it.
The idol is sculpted by Sunil Waradkar, a murtikar from Girgaon.
Explaining this year’s theme, Dixit said, “We have made Swananda Loka our theme.” Swananda Loka is described as the heavenly realm of Lord Ganesha. “It is believed to be a place of eternal happiness and bliss, where Lord Ganesha resides as Swananda Bala Ganpati,” Dixit added.
Speaking about the avatar, he said, “This year’s avatar matches our theme. The idol will be in the original ‘Swananda Ganpati’ form. Below the idol is a ‘Yali’.”
The Yali is a mythical creature with a lion’s body, elephant’s head, and horse’s or lion’s legs. Lord Ganesha may be shown seated on a Yali as a throne, or the Yali may be part of the decorative prabhavali (arch or halo) behind the idol.
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Ganeshotsav, a 10-day Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, will be observed from August 27 to September 6.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
