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In Photos | Mumbai's Girgaon Cha Raja turns 99 with majestic 24-foot clay idol

Updated On: 10 September, 2026 05:01 PM IST | ronak mastakar

Girgaon Cha Raja, one of Mumbai’s well-known public Ganeshotsav mandals, is completing 99 years this year. Established in 1928 by the Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal, the celebration is now heading towards its centenary year in 2027. Known for its large clay idol and long-standing traditions, the mandal has also incorporated environmental and social initiatives over the years. Here’s a look at Girgaon Cha Raja’s 99-year journey and what visitors can expect this Ganeshotsav. (Pics/Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal)

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Pic/Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal
Pic/Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal
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Established in 1928, the Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal is marking its 99th year in 2026. The mandal will enter its centenary year in 2027.
Established in 1928, the Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav Mandal is marking its 99th year in 2026. The mandal will enter its centenary year in 2027.
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The idol of Girgaon Cha Raja is around 22 feet tall and weighs more than 3.5 tonnes. Despite its size, it is made primarily from Shadu Mitti, or natural clay, with bamboo, grass and other natural materials used as supports.
The idol of Girgaon Cha Raja is around 22 feet tall and weighs more than 3.5 tonnes. Despite its size, it is made primarily from Shadu Mitti, or natural clay, with bamboo, grass and other natural materials used as supports.
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The idol-making tradition is associated with the four-generation Patkar family of sculptors. The current sculptor, Rajan Vishnupant Patkar, continues the family's work on the Ganesh idol.
The idol-making tradition is associated with the four-generation Patkar family of sculptors. The current sculptor, Rajan Vishnupant Patkar, continues the family's work on the Ganesh idol.
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The use of natural clay is a key feature of Girgaon Cha Raja. The mandal has also incorporated reusable elements into its decorations as it seeks to reduce the environmental impact of its annual celebrations.
The use of natural clay is a key feature of Girgaon Cha Raja. The mandal has also incorporated reusable elements into its decorations as it seeks to reduce the environmental impact of its annual celebrations.
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The mandal has organised activities including tree plantation drives, environmental awareness programmes, blood donation camps and health check-ups. It has also extended support during floods and assisted tribal communities, students and children in need.
The mandal has organised activities including tree plantation drives, environmental awareness programmes, blood donation camps and health check-ups. It has also extended support during floods and assisted tribal communities, students and children in need.
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Girgaon Cha Raja's use of clay for its large Ganesh idol has attracted attention beyond Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has referred to the mandal while speaking about clay idols and environmentally conscious Ganeshotsav celebrations.
Girgaon Cha Raja's use of clay for its large Ganesh idol has attracted attention beyond Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has referred to the mandal while speaking about clay idols and environmentally conscious Ganeshotsav celebrations.
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The mandal has been associated with several record achievements, including a large Shadu Mitti Ganesh idol, a traditional Maharashtrian pheta and a giant modak. The achievements have been recognised by national and international record organisations.
The mandal has been associated with several record achievements, including a large Shadu Mitti Ganesh idol, a traditional Maharashtrian pheta and a giant modak. The achievements have been recognised by national and international record organisations.
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For the 2026 celebrations, devotees will also be able to access online seva, puja, chadhava and prasad through the Sri Mandir app, according to the mandal.
For the 2026 celebrations, devotees will also be able to access online seva, puja, chadhava and prasad through the Sri Mandir app, according to the mandal.
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The 99th year marks an important milestone for Girgaon Cha Raja as it prepares for its centenary in 2027. After nearly a century, the mandal continues to combine its traditional Ganeshotsav practices with environmental and social initiatives.
The 99th year marks an important milestone for Girgaon Cha Raja as it prepares for its centenary in 2027. After nearly a century, the mandal continues to combine its traditional Ganeshotsav practices with environmental and social initiatives.

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