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Lalbaugcha Raja (2011–2025): Bappa’s most iconic looks through the years

Updated On: 02 September, 2026 02:27 PM IST | Anushree Gaikwad

Mumbai's Lalbaugcha Raja isn't just a festival idol; it's a global phenomenon. For over nine decades, millions of devotees have poured into the narrow lanes of Parel, waiting in line for hours just for a split-second darshan. From breathtaking theme-based decor to subtle changes in crown styling and throne art, here is how Bappa's royal avatar has transformed over the years. Take a visual walk down memory lane as we trace the iconic journey of Mumbai's favourite King from 2011 to 2025. Which one is your favourite?(PICS/ ATUL KAMBLE, ASHISH RAJE, ANUSHREE GAIKWAD, SHADAB KHAN, and Mid-Day Archives)

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01
For generations of Mumbaikars, visiting Lalbaugcha Raja is more than a festive ritual. It is an annual tradition marked by faith, devotion, and the belief that Bappa will fulfil their wishes. Year: 2025
For generations of Mumbaikars, visiting Lalbaugcha Raja is more than a festive ritual. It is an annual tradition marked by faith, devotion, and the belief that Bappa will fulfil their wishes. Year: 2025
02
As the city prepares for Ganeshotsav, these photographs offer a nostalgic journey through 15 years of Lalbaugcha Raja—from 2011 to 2025—capturing the revered idol's looks each year and the enduring spirit of Mumbai’s favourite festival. Year: 2024
As the city prepares for Ganeshotsav, these photographs offer a nostalgic journey through 15 years of Lalbaugcha Raja—from 2011 to 2025—capturing the revered idol's looks each year and the enduring spirit of Mumbai’s favourite festival. Year: 2024
03
From traditional royal-inspired appearances to elaborate backdrops and distinctive jewellery, each edition has offered devotees a memorable glimpse of the city’s most celebrated Ganpati idol. Year: 2023
From traditional royal-inspired appearances to elaborate backdrops and distinctive jewellery, each edition has offered devotees a memorable glimpse of the city’s most celebrated Ganpati idol. Year: 2023
04
With restrictions on large gatherings and public celebrations during the Covid years(2020-21), the usual scenes of massive crowds around Lalbaugcha Raja were absent. The pandemic also led to changes in the mandal’s celebrations, reflecting the extraordinary circumstances faced by the city. As Mumbai gradually returned to normalcy, Lalbaugcha Raja once again became a major attraction during Ganeshotsav.  Year: 2022
With restrictions on large gatherings and public celebrations during the Covid years(2020-21), the usual scenes of massive crowds around Lalbaugcha Raja were absent. The pandemic also led to changes in the mandal’s celebrations, reflecting the extraordinary circumstances faced by the city. As Mumbai gradually returned to normalcy, Lalbaugcha Raja once again became a major attraction during Ganeshotsav.  Year: 2022
05
The idol, decorations, and massive crowds became synonymous with Ganeshotsav in the city. Year: 2019
The idol, decorations, and massive crowds became synonymous with Ganeshotsav in the city. Year: 2019
06
By the late 2010s, Lalbaugcha Raja had firmly established itself as one of Mumbai’s biggest Ganeshotsav attractions. Year: 2018
By the late 2010s, Lalbaugcha Raja had firmly established itself as one of Mumbai’s biggest Ganeshotsav attractions. Year: 2018
07
The mandal’s decorations became an important part of the festive experience, providing a striking backdrop to the idol. Year: 2017
The mandal’s decorations became an important part of the festive experience, providing a striking backdrop to the idol. Year: 2017
08
Photographs from these years capture the growing popularity of Lalbaugcha Raja, with long queues becoming a familiar sight around the mandal. Year: 2016
Photographs from these years capture the growing popularity of Lalbaugcha Raja, with long queues becoming a familiar sight around the mandal. Year: 2016
09
In the early 2010s, this visual journey showcased Lalbaugcha Raja in a traditional and majestic avatar. Year: 2015
In the early 2010s, this visual journey showcased Lalbaugcha Raja in a traditional and majestic avatar. Year: 2015
10
The Lalbaugcha Raja Ganeshotsav 2026 festivities will kick off from Monday, September 14, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. Year: 2014
The Lalbaugcha Raja Ganeshotsav 2026 festivities will kick off from Monday, September 14, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. Year: 2014
11
This marks the 93rd year of the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal. Year: 2013
This marks the 93rd year of the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal. Year: 2013
12
The idol installation (sthapana) typically takes place in the early hours of the first day, and darshan continues almost round the clock through the festival period. Year: 2012
The idol installation (sthapana) typically takes place in the early hours of the first day, and darshan continues almost round the clock through the festival period. Year: 2012
13
The visarjan will take place on Friday, September 25, on the day of Anant Chaturdashi. Year: 2011
The visarjan will take place on Friday, September 25, on the day of Anant Chaturdashi. Year: 2011

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