First look: Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati idol

Lalbaugcha Raja

Here's the first look of one of Mumbai's most famous Sarvajanik Ganpatis, Lalbaugcha Raja.

Lalbaugcha Raja. Pic/Ashish Rane

Organised by Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganeshostav mandal in Mumbai, prepartions are in full swing for the 11-day Ganeshotsav.

Lalbaugcha Raja. Pic/Ashish Rane

The Ganeshotsav, which will start from Auust 29, will see lakhs of devotees come only for mukhdarshan of their 'bappa' to fulfill their navas or mannats.

Lalbaugcha Raja. Pic/Ashish Rane

While every corner of Mumbai will see Ganpati Mandals with big and small creatively carved out idols, Lalbaugcha Raja is one of the oldest. It was founded in 1934 and sees a large turnout since this idol of Lord Ganesha is considered 'Navsacha Ganpati', which means the fulfiller of all wishes.

The idol is sculpted by Santosh Kambli, the third generation of a family that has been making the Lalbaugcha Raja idol since 1935.

Some other famous Ganpati Mandals of Mumbai

Mumbaicha Raja: This one is considered as the oldest Ganpati Pandal in the city as it started the tradition in the late 1920s.
At: Ganesh Galli, Parel.

Khetwadi Ganraj: This Ganesh pandal has won several awards and is considered to be one of the most spectacular Ganesh idols in the city. In 2000, it erected a 40-feet tall Ganesh idol.
At: 12th Lane Khetwadi, Girgaum.

Andhericha Raja: Every year this Ganpati Pandal replicates themes and people specially visit the pandal to see them.
At: Veera Desai Road, Azad Nagar, Andheri (W)