A colourful rally of caparisoned elephants, floats and folk-dance performances marked the 'Athachamayam' celebrations in Tripunithura on Friday, heralding the start of the 10-day 'Onam' festivities in Kerala. The beginning of the festivities was officially inaugurated by Kerala Assembly Speaker A N Shamseer, who, referring to the recent natural disaster in Wayanad, said that everything can be lost in a moment and therefore, we should be able to move forward together by showing love and respect to each other. "A single rainfall is enough to end everything. We need to realise that everything can be lost in one moment. In Wayanad, in the space of a night, two villages vanished, they were swept away completely," he said. Over 200 people died and hundreds of homes were swept away or completely destroyed in the landslides that hit three villages of Meppadi panchayat in Wayanad district on July 30. Shamseer also said that "lies and betrayal" were becoming stronger in the state, as people go to sleep at night thinking about whom they should cheat the next day. "Therefore, as we celebrate Onam, we should lay emphasis on not cheating or blaming each other and instead focus on being united and showing love and respect to one another," he said. He further said that, unlike other states of the country, Kerala was one where there is still communal harmony, love and unity among the people. "We should be able to maintain this as we move forward. Some may try to create divisions among us, but we should not permit it," he said. After his brief speech, the Atham flag was raised by Lok Sabha MP Francis George and thereafter, the rally commenced from Atham Nagar in Tripunithura, once the capital of the erstwhile Royal Kingdom of Kochi. Despite it being a weekday, thousands, across all age groups and from all walks of life, turned up to watch the colourful procession which was lent a rhythmic touch by the 'chendamelam' and 'panchavadyam' performances by percussionists. Women in traditional Kerala attire of 'set mundu', children in different kinds of fancy dresses, various folk art forms like Theyyam, Kolkali, Mayilattam, Ammankudam, Pulikkali, and classical art forms like Kathakali added colour to the 'Athachamayam' procession. Many of those who lined up along the procession route to witness the festivities included even foreigners. In the days of kings, the Maharaja of Kochi used to participate in the procession from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy temple at Thrikkakara. According to legends, the festival is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, whose spirit is believed to visit Kerala at the time of Onam to see his subjects. Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Replace sugar with honey, churma for sattu, and other sweet hacks This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 September,2024 12:42 PM IST | Kerala | PTIBoeing's problem-plagued Starliner is set to finally depart the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday, returning to Earth without astronauts after NASA deemed the risk too great. The century-old aerospace giant's reputation has taken a hammering over thruster malfunctions and helium leaks its spaceship encountered on its way up to the orbital outpost in June, and the US space agency's subsequent decision to fly its crew back on a rival SpaceX Crew Dragon next year. Starliner will autonomously undock from the space station around 6:04 pm Eastern Time (2204 GMT), landing at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico at approximately 0403 GMT. NASA opted to bring the ship home without astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams despite Boeing's assurances of a safe flight. The company carried out extensive ground testing that aimed to replicate the technical hitches the spaceship had experienced on its ascent, and devised plans to prevent more problems. In the end, however, Boeing could not convince NASA it could be trusted to bring back the pair, who were originally meant to stay on the ISS for roughly a week as they tested out Starliner, but will now remain there until February. "Boeing believed in the model that they had created that tried to predict the thruster degradation for the rest of the flight," Steve Stich, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program told reporters this week. But "the NASA team, due to the uncertainty in the modeling, could not get comfortable with that," he added, characterizing the mood during meetings as "tense." Certification decisions to come After undocking, Starliner will perform a powerful "breakout burn" that will shoot it well clear of the station to prevent any chance of a collision -- a maneuver that would have been unnecessary if it had crew aboard who could take manual control of the ship if needed. Overall, the expectation is that Starliner will successfully carry out its parachute- and airbag-assisted landing -- just as it has during two previous uncrewed tests in 2019 and 2022. But ground teams will be closely studying all aspects of its performance, particularly its troublesome thrusters during the crucial "deorbit burn" that brings the spacecraft back through Earth's atmosphere. Stich emphasized that NASA was focused on completing the immediate tasks at hand. "When we do that, we'll have a better understanding of when can we certify the vehicle and when can we resume flights," he said. NASA awarded Boeing and SpaceX multibillion-dollar contracts a decade ago to develop spacecraft to ferry astronauts to and from the ISS, following the retirement of the Space Shuttle. Elon Musk's SpaceX, however, beat Boeing to the punch, successfully flying dozens of astronauts since 2020. Also Read: Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stuck in space: How can it affect their health? Experts explain This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 September,2024 12:05 PM IST | Washington DC | AFP
From performing in front of live audiences to starring on the silver screen, and from sparking thought-provoking discussions through her books to shaping narratives for films, Tisca Chopra has embraced storytelling in all its diverse forms throughout her career.Born in Kasauli, Chopra was raised in an environment surrounded by books—a passion that often comes through in both her conversations and her work. Whether portraying the mother of a dyslexic child in Taare Zameen Par or writing a book on puberty and menstruation for young girls, her commitment to connecting with audiences through meaningful stories has earned her widespread appreciation. ‘I’ve always been interested in telling unusual stories’Despite donning multiple hats in her career, it isn’t the role that attracts this actor-writer-filmmaker, but the story she tells through these roles.“I've always been interested in telling unusual stories that stay in your heart, which people want to go back to again and again. That's my interest,” she says.“I want to engage with the audience who I think are far more intelligent than me in a way that we have a conversation via the film that we make. So, whether it's an actor or a director or a producer or a writer, that's my interest,” she adds. This passion for storytelling hasn’t developed recently. Reading and writing were integral parts of Chopra’s childhood and shaped her interests significantly. And now her daughter is being influenced by the same habit.The mother to the 11-year-old Tara says, “We just published by daughter’s first book and she's not yet 12. What influences you as a child is what then comes out of you. You are a field of potential. You're a field of anything and everything.”“My dad has a couple of books published. My mom has also published a colouring book. Many people in my family have written books. It was always something around the house. So, it was bound to happen,” she further reveals.The Chopra family considers books to be a treasure trove of storytelling. But many books, including classics, are being adapted into films and that’s how a lot of people are being introduced to these stories.On that, Chopra says, “Most of the time, the films don't live up to the book. But in some cases, they not just live up, but probably exceed the expectations of the book like Gone with the Wind and Gone Girl.".Why is it that those consuming the same story through these two mediums often believe that the storytelling in the book is better?Chopra explains, “When you're reading the book, your imagination is at play. And there can be nothing more powerful than your own imagination. No filmmaker can fill in the colours as well as your brain can.”“I think writing is very, very poor in films currently. It’s just more of the same things. When something spectacular and new comes out, everyone says “oh, we really like this”. But then we go back to trying to make formula films. But if we go back to literature, we'll find a lot of good stuff,” she adds.Chopra has written two non-fiction books and screenplays for various short films. Her first feature film as a director is also in the making. Being a part of both these mediums, she strongly believes that the writing process is completely different.Talking about the same, she says, “I think writing a screenplay for me is the joy of my life. I just can't stop thinking about it be it morning, evening, or night. After a point, once you've got your basics done like the plot, character maps, etc., and you know the structure i.e., Act 1, 2A, 2B, 3, then the screenplay starts telling you. You just say that I'm available today, I'm here to write, and I will write it.”She continues, “While writing a book, you have to keep one theme and go deeper and deeper into that idea and explore it from other angles.” While Chopra is a public figure who hasn’t shied away from expressing her thoughts, some aspects of her life are still unknown to her audience.“What is very dichotomous from what people see me as is my jhalli self. I'm not a regular jhalli, I'm an advanced jhalli. My pajamas have holes, my T-shirts have holes, and that's the way I write. So, every morning, if I'm not shooting, I write,” she reveals.“The other part is my mothering part. I love to tuck my daughter in at night because most of the day we are busy. Spending that half an hour, 40 minutes with her at night, asking her how her day went and what goes on in her life is very special,” she adds. ‘We should take that responsibility and break that nonsense down’Chopra tried to follow the process of delving deeper into a subject while writing books when she wrote ‘What’s Up With Me’, which was released in 2021. Aimed at young girls, it talks about puberty and all things that come with it, including period, which has been a taboo topic for far too long. Did the book ignite the conversations that she wanted it to?“There was a reason I wrote that book,” Chopra reveals, “I was once buying sanitary napkins at a chemist shop. There was a paan shop on the corner and somebody was buying gutka and cigarettes. When I asked the chemist for sanitary napkins, he wrapped the packet in a newspaper. Then he put that in a black bag. So, I thought there are people buying gutka and cigarettes, which are going to harm them for sure, and here's something that's a very natural occurrence in almost 50 percent of the population. This is wrong.”The writer continues, “Till children are an amorphous mass, it’s all okay. The minute a girl hits puberty, restrictions start coming in. And as I was writing the book, I discovered a lot of completely unscientific, unreasonable and odd behaviours that we get into just because a girl has her period. Pickles do not spoil. You can step into the kitchen because even when you get your period, you're still hungry and you want to eat and you can still cook. There isn’t any guilt or shame. It’s biology. I’ve tried to talk about this as often as I can, but I think it's not often enough.”Breaking the stigma around this natural process can be achieved through public discourse, but more importantly, through conversations that start at home.“I have started doing that in my home. For example, I make it a point to tell my dad, who is slightly old school, that I have my period if he asks me questions like why I am not going to the gym, etc. Initially, he used to feel a little like, why is she telling me this? But now he's okay. We should take that responsibility and break that nonsense down. He's also a product of his times. It's not that he's wrong, but if we know better, then we should be able to pass this idea backward and forward. And I'm trying my best,” explains the Taare Zameen Par actor. Also Read: National Nutrition Week: Uncover the hidden power of nutrition on women's health — An expert guide ‘Follow your craft’Chopra has navigated her journey in the film industry and beyond with confidence, often opening up about important issues and choosing stories that challenge her and deviate from the mainstream definition of cinema. What drives her to be true to her craft?“I think there's one piece of advice I’ve appreciated from a dear friend of mine (very senior and like a guide to me). He said, “Follow your craft and the money will follow.” So, I've tried to follow that to the best of my ability,” reveals Chopra.Staying true to your job is important to be successful, an advice she would like to give youngsters who are trying to make a place for themselves in this world.She adds, “What I'd like to share is what I've learned. Be really good at your job. Experiment with a whole lot of things and come into your work knowing that this is what you want to do. You might be in an allied field and might be trying to make your way into that. For example, if somebody wants to be an actor, be an assistant. Be around the field to get to where you need to get to. The minute someone is interested in their job, there's a special flavour that comes into their work. They love it so much that they'll look at it from all angles and they'll want to be around it. And they'll not be looking at the clock and saying, I need to check out now.”
06 September,2024 10:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainOne of Mumbai’s most vibrant festivals – Ganeshotsav 2024 – is round the corner. The streets of the city are decked up with Ganesha idols and pandals are being set up with full fervour. While a lot of people bring Ganesh idols home, community celebrations also form a huge part of the festivities. Pandal-hopping is one of the most anticipated activities of this festival in the city. Here are five must-visit Ganpati pandals in Mumbai and directions to reach there. Lalbaugcha Raja Lalbaugcha Raja is one of the most popular Ganesh mandals in the city. Ganeshotsav in Mumbai is often associated with this idol and devotees from across the country visit the city to catch a glimpse of the deity. 2024-25 marks the 91st year of Lalbaugcha Raja. It is also referred to as the ‘Navsacha Ganpati’ which translates to ‘the one who fulfills all wishes’. Where: Lalbaug Market, Lower Parel How to reach by train: The nearest railway station is Lower Parel on the Western Line and Currey Road on the Central Line. It is advisable to walk to the pandal during Ganeshotsav since roads are often closed for crowd management. One can also take a taxi to reach here. GSB Seva Mandal Known as the richest Ganpati of Mumbai, the GSB Seva Mandal Ganpati idol is adorned with real gold and silver ornaments. The pandal opts for a traditional approach to the festivities. This year, the Ganpati idol was insured for 400 crores, creating a new record. It also follows eco-friendly practices where the idol is made of clay. Where: GSB Sports Club Ground, Near SNDT Women’s College, King’s Circle, Matunga How to reach: The nearest railway station is King’s Circle on the Harbour Line and Matunga on the Central Line. One can also take a taxi to reach here. Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja Just a few lanes away from Lalbaugcha Raja, Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja is another famous Ganpati idol of Mumbai. Established in 1928, it is known for its creative themes and decorations. It is also one of the oldest pandals in the city and sees a record number of visitors. Where: Ganesh Galli, Lalbaug How to reach: The nearest railway station is Lower Parel on the Western Line and Currey Road on the Central Line. One can also take a taxi to reach here. Girgaoncha Raja This Ganesh idol is set up by the Nikadwari Lane Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, established in 1928. It is often appreciated for being completely eco-friendly with the idol made of shadu clay. The traditional Maharashtrian Pheta (Turban) elegantly adorns the idol and has become a distinguishing factor over the years. Where: Nikadwari Lane, Girgaon How to reach: The nearest railway station is Charni Road on the Western Line. One can also take a taxi to reach here. Andhericha Raja Located in Andheri, this is one of the most famous pandals in suburban Mumbai. It is also referred to as the ‘Navsala Pavnara Ganpati (wish-fulfilling Ganpati)’. The visarjan of this idol happens on the fifth day, instead of the traditional 11th day. Andhericha Raja is known for elaborate set-up and decorations. Where: Veera Desai Road, Azad Nagar, Andheri West How to reach: The nearest railway station is Andheri on the Western Line. The nearest metro station is Azad Nagar. One can also take a taxi/auto to reach here. Also Read: Mid-day Specials | Ganeshotsav in Pune: Are traditional values still at the core?
05 September,2024 07:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGanesh Chaturthi 2024 is round the corner. One of the most revered festivals in India, it is celebrated on the Chaturthi tithi (fourth days) of the Shukla paksh (bright fortnight) of the Bhadrapad month, which usually falls in the month of August or September according to the Gregorian calendar. The festivities, that will begin on September 7 will last for ten days. During Ganeshotsav, people bring Ganesh idols home and perform different rituals like puja, aarti, etc. Essentials for Ganesh Chaturthi From puja samagri to decorations, here are some essentials one must have to welcome Bappa home and celebrate the festival. Ganesh idol – Some people worship the Ganesh idol already at home, while others bring special idols home during this time. Some even prepare the idols themselves using clay or other eco-friendly materials. Platform/Pedestal – The Ganesh idol is usually placed on a platform, that can be made of wood or metal, and covered with a cloth. Decorations – Various decorative items can be used to elevate the area around the Ganesh idol. These include flowers, garlands (toran), lights, rangolis and other items. Offerings – One must also have all the items that are to be offered to Lord Ganesh as a sign of devotion. These can include flowers, prasad, etc. Puja samagri – Different people use different puja samagri as per their rituals. Puja Samagri for Ganesh Chaturthi Here is the puja samagri list for the festivities. These items are commonly used in performing the rituals, but can vary from household to household. Red or yellow cloth to cover the platform Puja thali Flowers (common ones include red hibiscus and marigold) Modak, laddoo and other sweets Durva grass, which is a key offering Panchamrit (milk, ghee, curd, honey, sugar) Akshat (rice) Fruits Incense sticks (agarbatti) Diya (for aarti) Camphor (for aarti) Vermillion (Kumkum/sindoor) Turmeric powder (haldi) Kalash (usually made of copper or brass) Clean water for various rituals Paan leaf The most auspicious time to perform the Ganesh Chaturthi puja on September 7 is during the Madhyahna hour, which normally lasts from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM. This period is seen to be auspicious since Lord Ganesha is said to have been born during it. Also Read: Mid-day Specials | Ganeshotsav in Pune: Are traditional values still at the core?
05 September,2024 07:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFresh off his genre-blending ‘Neon Nights’ EP, Norwegian Grammy-winning electronic producer Alan Walker has released his latest single, ‘Thick Of It All’. Featuring globally recognised pop icon Joe Jonas and acclaimed singer-songwriter Julia Michaels, the marquee trio have blended their distinct styles to craft an anthemic collaboration, for fans of their music around the world. ‘Thick Of It All’ is a powerful fusion of pop, electronic, drum and bass; capturing the emotional journey of fighting for love and overcoming challenges. Pegged to be an anthem of resilience and passion, the track showcases Jonas's unmistakable voice, Walker's electronic flair, and Michaels's evocative vocals. Alan Walker states, “Working with Joe and Julia on ‘Thick Of It All’ has been a dream come true. The song’s lyrics celebrate overcoming challenges and supporting one another, and I believe we’ve captured that spirit in the production as well. It’s an honor and a humbling experience to collaborate with such legendary artists and songwriters. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed creating it!” Alan Walker will be bringing his Walkerworld Global Tour to India later this month with a 10-city showcase by Sunburn, and is expected to be his biggest ever India trek drawing in over 1 lakh attendees. Currently, he is bringing his signature sound to fans worldwide with his international tours, while his social media presence is buzzing with viral content, including the popular ‘Alan Biker’ series. Without showing any signs of slowing down, he continues to make waves in the electronic music scene with his recent 'Neon Nights' partnership, which includes collaborations with major platforms like Rocket League, further showcasing his genre-blending prowess. Additionally, his track ‘Faded’ has achieved a significant milestone with 2 billion streams, cementing its’ place as a timeless and iconic hit in his ever-growing catalog.
05 September,2024 03:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian women are rising the corporate ladder as they are leading about 18 per cent of 111 unicorns (valued at $1 billion) in the startup and financial technology space, said Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister. Speaking at a conference organised by the FICCI-FLO Chennai Chapter in Chennai, Sitharaman said the number of women directors in active corporate companies has increased more than three times in the last decade. From 2.58 lakh in 2014, women directors associated with active companies rose to 8.83 lakh -- over 3.4 times higher -- in the country by August 2024. In Tamil Nadu, the number has risen by 4.3 times -- from 15,550 in 2014 to 68,000 in August 2024, said the Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, while lauding efforts undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to boost women’s participation across sectors. Sitharaman noted the efforts are visible in the amount of funds being allocated to the schemes related to women empowerment in the recent Union Budget. In FY2014, the Centre provisioned Rs 97,134 crore as the Budget Estimate on the schemes for the welfare and empowerment of women. The amount has tripled to Rs 3.10 lakh crore in the FY2025 budget, the FM said. Further, Sitharaman cited a study by research firm Deloitte to show that the number of women directors on the Board of Nifty 50 companies has also increased to 22 per cent. In 2019, it was 18 per cent. Besides corporate roles, the FM also stated that women are now also “allowed in combat services across the three forces”. She informed that the entry of women in various cadres in the Navy commenced in June 2023. "Recruitment of officers in the IAF is now gender-neutral. Women officers are inducted into all the branches and streams of the IAF," she said. Also Read: Women’s safety and justice: A deep dive into how the law protects women against sexual offences This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
05 September,2024 01:39 PM IST | Chennai | IANS
Ganesh Chaturthi presents an opportunity to transform your home into a sacred and festive space. It is when the colours are celebrated, ornamentation is glorified and the nostalgia is relived, all over, again. Every home has a different take on it—one takes forward the family traditions, one goes bold with the boho fusion, one finds joy in the minimalism while one styles everything up with an eclectic eye. Whether you have a spacious house or a cosy apartment, there are many ways to create a festive and welcoming atmosphere in your home. From traditional elements to modern touches, design experts will offer versatile decor ideas that will bring the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi into your living spaces. Versatile themes for Ganesh Chaturthi decorThe choice of decor theme can significantly enhance the overall ambiance and reflect your style. “Ganesh Chaturthi is a celebration deeply rooted in tradition, and decorating for the occasion should reflect that sense of cultural richness,” says Apourva, co-founder of Life n Colours. From contemporary accents to traditional art forms, the expert shares different décor themes you can adapt for your celebrations this year. Nature-inspiredA nature-inspired theme is becoming a favourite for Ganesh Chaturthi as it brings a calming, earthy vibe to homes, creating a perfect balance between festivity and tranquility. This theme is all about bringing the outdoors inside. Think soft, muted colour palettes, earthy textures, and natural materials like bamboo, jute, and cotton. You can incorporate floral prints, leafy patterns, or scenic landscapes on fabrics, wallpapers, or cushions to add a sense of serenity. This approach is perfect for creating a peaceful, eco-friendly space that feels both inviting and festive, allowing you to celebrate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi in harmony with nature. Contemporary chicFor those who prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic, a contemporary chic theme can offer a clean and stylish backdrop for Ganesh Chaturthi. This theme revolves around minimalism, featuring simple lines, neutral tones, and carefully chosen accents. You might choose abstract wall art, geometric patterns, or monochrome fabrics to keep things subtle yet sophisticated. The idea is to maintain a refined elegance that complements your existing decor without overshadowing it. This approach works well in both small and large spaces, making it a versatile option for anyone looking to celebrate the festival in a more understated, modern way. Madhubani melangeIf you’re looking to infuse a unique cultural touch into your Ganesh Chaturthi decor, a Madhubani melange theme could be a fantastic choice. Known for its vibrant colours and intricate patterns, Madhubani art brings a lively and authentic flair to any space. You could use Madhubani-inspired wall hangings, cushion covers, or even framed prints to create a visually captivating environment. The bold designs and rich colours can serve as a stunning focal point in a pooja room or living area, adding artistic and festive energy that truly stands out.SEE PHOTOS: Why these Mumbaikars have chosen to make eco-friendly, homemade idols Tropical elegance in goldFor a luxurious and refreshing take on festive decor, a theme of tropical elegance with gold accents offers a beautiful blend of vibrancy and sophistication. Imagine lush green tropical motifs—like palm leaves, exotic flowers, or bird prints—combined with touches of gold to add a bit of glamour. This combination can be incorporated through wallpapers, upholstery, or decorative accessories to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both festive and refined. It’s a great option for those who want to make a statement with their Ganesh Chaturthi decor, balancing boldness with elegance. Pichwai splendorInspired by the traditional Pichwai art form, this theme brings a sense of spiritual depth and visual beauty to Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Pichwai art is famous for its intricate depictions of lotus flowers, peacocks, and divine figures. Bringing this art into your decor—whether through wall hangings, murals, or even tablecloths—adds a sacred, artistic touch that elevates the ambiance of any space. The detailed designs and vibrant colours create a serene yet captivating environment, perfect for a Pooja room or central area where you want to evoke a sense of devotion and cultural richness. 5 ways to make your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations more sustainableAs a festival that is elaborate with days-long festivities, Ganesh Chaturthi calls for a sustainable approach more than any other. Interior designer and creative director of I'm the Centre for Applied Arts, Punam Kalra says, “By opting for eco-friendly choices, you can add character to your space while also giving new life to sustainable materials.” She lists five ways to make your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations more sustainable. Clay idolsYou can begin with the purchase of clay idols that are free from artificial colours—the ones that may end up polluting the air and water alike. Organic dyesBring a palette of organic dyes like the whites of rice, the reds of brick and more natural colours that trace back to nature. Natural adornmentsTry the adornments with fresh flower garlands and terracotta diyas that come straight from the local artisans to bring the feeling of community into the festivities. Traditional elementsTo evoke a sense of nostalgia, consider incorporating traditional elements like banana leaf backdrops, palm leaf decorations, and paper fan hangings. These familiar elements will transport you to the heart of Indian festive traditions. Sustainable materialsTo create a sustainable and inviting atmosphere, incorporate natural materials throughout your home. Choose rattan cane lampshades over metal pendants, hand-chiselled terracotta murals over mirrors, handwoven jute rugs over printed carpets, reclaimed wood beams over ceiling installations, and repurposed heirloom silk over plush textiles. Livening up your compact living spacesAs Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, decorating small living spaces presents a unique challenge but also an exciting opportunity to infuse creativity and festivity into your home. “The key lies in striking a balance between aesthetics and spatial harmony, transforming even the smallest corners into sanctuaries of devotion and elegance,” poses Apourva. He shares three easy ways for you to strategically liven up your compact living spaces. Intimate spacesIn smaller spaces, the focus should be on creating an intimate, refined environment that captures the essence of Indian heritage. Instead of going for larger, more traditional setups, one can opt for thoughtfully curated elements—handcrafted décor pieces, intricate textiles, and artisanal wall art—that echo the festivities without overwhelming the area. For instance, a backdrop of a hand-painted mural or a modern interpretation of traditional motifs can create a luxurious focal point, setting the tone for the celebration while adding a contemporary touch. Warm lightingIt is also essential to consider how light and colour play into the décor. Using a palette that blends modern hues with classic tones can evoke a sense of serenity and space. Soft pastels or metallic shades, combined with warm lighting, can make the setting feel more expansive and sophisticated, allowing the décor to breathe and resonate without feeling cramped. Elevate your pooja roomEnhance your Pooja room with temple-inspired wallpapers that feature a wide range of traditional Pichwai murals, floral patterns, geometric motifs, and divine images of gods, creating a space that radiates joy and spiritual happiness. Adorning your large living spacesA large living space offers a unique opportunity to create a grand and memorable Ganesh Chaturthi celebration that is both traditional and innovative. “When blessed with a large living space, the possibilities to create a grand and immersive experience are endless. The key is to blend creativity with devotion, for a celebration that resonates with everyone present, leaving them with lasting memories of joy, togetherness, and spiritual upliftment,” tells us Suhani Lal Sanghra, founder and principal architect at Sparc Design. She shares tips on creative ways to use large spaces for your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Elaborate mandapA large living space allows for the creation of an elaborate mandap (pavilion) to house the Ganesh idol. Consider creating a multi-tiered platform, where the idol is placed at the highest point, symbolising the elevation of the divine. Incorporate intricate traditional elements like pillars, arches, and drapes in rich, festive colours such as saffron, gold, and maroon. The use of decorative lights, flowers, and traditional art forms like Rangoli or Kolam around the Mandapam can further enhance the grandeur. Cultural and artistic exhibitsWith large spaces, one gets an excellent opportunity to showcase cultural and artistic exhibits related to Ganesh Chaturthi. Consider setting up a gallery of traditional and contemporary Ganesh art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to installations and digital art. You could also have live art demonstrations, where artists create Rangolis, paint idols, or craft traditional ornaments in real time, allowing guests to engage with the creative process. Hands-on activitiesYou could create interactive worship areas where guests can participate in rituals. Set up a ‘DIY pooja’ corner, where families can perform their own Aarti or offer flowers and prasad to the deity. Provide materials for making eco-friendly Ganesh idols, allowing children and adults alike to engage in a hands-on creative activity that also promotes environmental consciousness. Cultural performancesDedicate a space where you can invite local artists to perform classical dances or traditional folk performances like dhol tasha or lesim. These performances can be staged in different areas, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of cultural expressions throughout the celebration. Grand feastFood is an integral part of Ganesh Chaturthi, and a large space allows for the creation of a grand feast. Set up a multi-station food court offering a variety of traditional delicacies such as modaks, ladoos, and other festive treats. Consider having live cooking stations where guests can watch the preparation of these dishes, adding an element of culinary theatre to the celebration.Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Replace sugar with honey, churma for sattu, and other sweet hacks Decking up your outdoor spacesHaving a terrace or a garden during Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, offers a perfect opportunity to transform outdoor spaces into lively, spiritual sanctuaries. Sanghra further shares ideas for livening up your outdoor spaces. Whether you have a spacious garden or a cosy terrace, these ideas will help you transform your outdoor area into a lively, spiritual haven for the festival. Sustainable mandapOne could start by choosing an eco-friendly Ganesh idol made from clay or natural materials. Place the idol on an elevated platform within the garden or terrace, creating a Mandap with organic elements like bamboo, wooden panels, or draped fabric in rich, festive colours. Surround the idol with potted plants and flowers that complement the natural setting. This not only emphasises sustainability but also integrates the divine with nature, creating a serene and harmonious atmosphere. Floral abundanceFlowers are an essential part of Ganesh Chaturthi decor, and an outdoor space provides ample room to get creative. Use marigolds, lotuses, and roses to create vibrant floral garlands that can be draped around the Mandap, across railings, or hung from tree branches. You can also lay out intricate floral patterns or rangolis on the ground, using petals in different colours to form traditional designs or images of Lord Ganesha. These floral arrangements not only add colour but also infuse the space with a natural fragrance, enhancing the overall ambiance. Light it upLighting plays a crucial role in festive decor. For an outdoor Ganesh Chaturthi celebration, consider using a combination of traditional diyas (oil lamps) and modern string lights to illuminate the space. Place diyas along pathways, on steps, or around the Mandap to create a warm, inviting glow as evening falls. String lights can be woven through trees, around pergolas, or along the terrace railing, creating a twinkling canopy of lights that adds a magical touch to the celebration. Lanterns made from paper or metal can also be hung at different heights to add depth and a festive atmosphere. Add a soothing elementIf your garden or terrace has a fountain or water feature, decorate it with floating candles or flower petals to create a tranquil focal point. You could also place a small idol of Ganesha on a lotus leaf or floating platform in the water, symbolising purity and divinity. For those without existing water features, consider adding temporary water bowls with floating diyas or petals, which can be placed around the space to add an element of serenity.Cosy seatingCreate cosy, seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy the festivities. Use traditional Indian seating options like low cushions, floor mats, or wooden stools, and decorate these spaces with colourful textiles, such as embroidered cushions or silk throws. Set up small decor corners with Ganesha-themed artifacts, such as miniature idols, paintings, or statues, along with incense sticks and bells, to add a spiritual touch to different parts of the outdoor space.Interactive spacesDesignate specific areas within the terrace or garden for interactive rituals. Create a Pooja corner with all the necessary items, such as incense, flowers, and offerings, where family and guests can participate in the Aarti or perform their prayers. Dedicate a small stage or open area where musicians or dancers can perform traditional arts, such as devotional songs, bhajans, or classical dances. Alternatively, set up speakers around the space to play a curated playlist of Ganesh Chaturthi songs, creating an immersive audio backdrop that complements the visual decor and enhances the celebratory mood.
05 September,2024 11:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalIndia is gearing up to celebrate one of its biggest festivals – Ganesh Chaturthi 2024. The ten days of Ganeshotsav are filled with cultural celebrations that span different parts of the country. However, the festival has a special connection to some cities and Pune is one of them. Often deemed to be the place where the concept of ‘Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav’ originated, Pune is home to many revered Ganpati mandals. But one Ganesh temple that the city is often identified with is Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple. History and significance of Dagdusheth Ganpati Punekars don’t need any introduction to this temple of Lord Ganesh. It stands as a pride of the city and attracts devotees all year round. But even outside the city, the reverence of Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati is immense. It has a rich history and has been a part of Pune’s Ganeshotsav celebrations for a long time. It is named after a famous trader Dagdusheth Halwai, who came to Pune from Karnataka and is said to have been a part of Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav since its inception, making the deity's legacy 132-years old. The deity of Lord Ganesha was incepted by Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife Lakshmibai when they lost their only son to the plague epidemic. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati during Ganeshotsav Ganeshotsav is celebrated with grandeur by the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Trust. It is one of the most notable mandals in the city. Ahead of the festivities, here are details and schedules that one must keep in mind before visiting the temple or pandal. Theme This year, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati will be welcomed in a themed-pandal – a replica of the Jatoli Shiva Temple from Himachal Pradesh. Schedule Given below is the schedule of Ganeshotsav, as given on their website. 1. Ganesh Chaturthi: Saturday, September 7, 2024 Ganesh Aagman Miravnuk: 8:30 AM Pran Pratishthapana: 11:11 AM 2. Daily Abhishek Pooja: Sunday, September 8 to Monday, September 16, 2024 from 7 AM to 5 PM 3. Ganesh Visarjan: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 4 PM Other details Where: Budhwar Peth, Pune General temple timings: Darshan for devotees from 5:30 AM to 11 PM Official website: www.dagdushethganpati.com Also Read: Ganeshotsav in Pune: Are traditional values still at the core?
05 September,2024 08:59 AM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondent
Trigger warning: Mentions of sexual harassment, abuse and rapeThere were 4,45,256 cases of crimes against women in 2022, which translates to approximately 51 cases every hour. Of this, the majority of crimes were categorised as cruelty by a spouse or his relatives (31.4%) followed by kidnapping and abduction (19.2%), assault with intent to outrage modesty (18.7%), and rape (7.1%). These statistics, as stated in the ‘Crime in India 2022’ report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), highlight the dire state of women’s safety in the country. In light of recent events in India, including the Kolkata rape and murder, Badlapur sexual assault, Hema Committee report and many other cases, the discourse around the protection of women from sexual offences has once again gained momentum. People are not only demanding a thorough investigation into these matters but also strict punishment for the perpetrators. Amid this, the legal framework on sexual offences against women has also come under fire. There’s a demand for stricter laws to ensure women’s safety and social justice. What do the current laws on this subject state and why do people feel there’s a need for change? Provisions for the protection of women against sexual offences Manasi Chaudhari, advocate and founder of Pink Legal, informs, “We have two types of sexual offences laws in India. One comes under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) which defines what constitutes sexual harassment and criminalises these acts, for example, molestation, sexual assault, groping, trying to disrobe a woman, making vulgar faces or gestures, insulting the modesty of a woman, etc.” Chapter V of the BNS deals with offences against women and children. Sections 63-79 under this chapter state definitions and punishment for rape and other sexual offences. “The second major law is the Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act (POSH Act),” she adds. While these provisions currently exist in India’s legal system, it wasn’t always the case. They come into place or evolved over time and in order to determine what’s needed to further improve the legal framework, it’s important to understand how the laws have changed over the years. Nausheen Yousuf, lawyer and founder-partner of TKNY Advocates and Legal Reservoir, gives a brief overview of the evolution and provisions of laws relating to sexual offences against women. Rape and sexual offences laws“The first major amendment in rape laws was made after the Mathura rape case in 1972. Mathura was a young tribal girl. She was working at a place and eloped with her employer. People filed an FIR in the police station. She was produced before the police. Then, two policemen in the police station raped her. An FIR was filed against those two officers. The matter went from the Sessions Court to the High Court, finally to the Supreme Court of the country, which eventually acquitted the accused stating that there was no injury on the body. Mathura did not put up a fight so it was by consent,” Yousuf informs. She further states, “What the court failed to understand is that there is something known as passive submission. In such gruesome situations, the body tends to freeze. One doesn’t know how to respond and is not able to move or scream. The court misconstrued this as consent. There was a huge outcry at that point and hence, an amendment was made in 1983 mentioning custodial rape as an offence. Eventually, other specific cases of rape were also added.”Over the years, the discourse around these laws continued. The next major blow that shook the entire country, judicial system and policymakers was the Nirbhaya Rape Case in 2012. After immense public outrage, Yousuf says, “sweeping reforms were introduced in 2013 by the Criminal Law Amendment Act, wherein rape was now taken in a wider definition that is not just penovaginal. It also included insertion or penetration of anything into women’s private parts. There were also other amendments wherein situations like stalking (both physical and cyber) and voyeurism were also recognised as sexual offences.”Currently, a punishment of not less than 10 years is listed for perpetrators of rape. Also Read: Do women feel safe at bars in Mumbai? Domestic Violence Act, 2005Yousuf reveals, “Domestic Violence Act in 2005, spoke about varied forms of violence in the domestic sphere, including sexual violence. For example, husband forcing himself upon his wife could be sexual violence, father-in-law not looking at you in a good way could be sexual violence, etc."While domestic violence is often overlooked when speaking about sexual offences, it forms a major part of the crimes against women. Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013One of the most important developments in women’s safety laws was the recognition of sexual harassment at the workplace. This was done after the Bhanwari Devi rape case.Yousuf informs, “Bhanwari Devi was a woman working with the government of Rajasthan and her prime duty was to report to the government of any child marriage in the state. She reported the marriage of a six-month-old child and it was stopped on that particular day. Four men from that community (high-caste) came to her village and raped her before everybody. She filed an FIR. Her employer refused to help her out saying it was her issue. The case went ahead and the Vishaka guidelines were issued by the Supreme Court of India which identified sexual harassment at the workplace.”“The board came up with the guidelines in 1997 saying that a sexual harassment committee has to be formed in every government organisation. However, a drawback was that it was limited to government organisations. While issuing these guidelines, the Supreme Court also stated that laws should be formulated for sexual harassment in the workplace. Finally, this law was introduced in 2013 as the Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, also known as the POSH Act,” she adds. Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012“A few months before the Nirbhaya case in 2012, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) was introduced. It acknowledged that children below the age of 18 are also at risk of sexual offences like rape, pornography, etc.,” states Yousuf. What is the challenge? While laws are in place, the legal system is often blamed for failing to protect women from sexual offences. Where does the problem lie then? Chaudhari believes it lies in the implementation of the laws. “Though we have great laws for women in India, the problem is the execution of laws. Victims face a challenge right from taking the first step, which is going to the police station to file a police complaint because they don’t know what will come out of it. Will there be any result or will they just have to keep going around between police, lawyer and court with no result in the end?” she comments. “Already, a victim comes with a lot of trauma and then they don't want to add on to that trauma by having people doubt their testimony. So, they may choose to just not go to the law or the legal system at all. Execution of laws is the most important for victims to first feel comfortable and safe to go and report. And secondly, to be able to report with some hope that they will get justice. If there is no hope, and if the only scenario that comes to your head is that you will just be stuck in a court case for years and years and nothing will come out of it, then it is a very sad state of affairs and victims will not feel like reporting,” she adds. Chaudhari further states, “For the justice system, the difficulty is the amount of backlog that court cases have. Every case takes a minimum of three to four years on average. And most cases go on for longer. Some cases go on for generations together. Even in the Nirbhaya case, it took eight years for the rapists to be given the death sentence. So, when that is the situation, the justice system is not able to deal with the cases efficiently.”“And secondly, there's a problem with the evidence. Criminal law says that you are innocent until proven guilty and you have to be 100 percent proven guilty. There should be no doubt. So, for that, you need strong evidence. And most of the cases of sexual assault or rape either happen behind closed doors where there are no witnesses or you don't have any kind of evidence. Some cases are reported very late and by the time they are reported, all evidence is gone. For example, if you go for a medical test immediately, you can get the evidence of samples or any deposits on the skin. But if you go after a few days or months, you will not have evidence. That is a problem they face,” she further explains. The challenge of courts being overburdened is echoed by Yousuf. “The courts are overburdened. While people say that there needs to be a time-bound system, I believe some important aspects might be missed in an attempt to close the case hurriedly. Having more courts and judicial officers is the need of the hour,” she says. Additionally, Yousuf also feels some laws need to change.“Section 377 of the IPC, which pertains to unnatural sex, was completely scrapped from the BNS. While the purpose is fair, there are also cases of women facing situations of unnatural sex from their husbands, which they are not comfortable with. So, there’s no provision for that. Also, marital rape has not yet been criminalised,” she expresses. Also Read: National Nutrition Week: All you need to know about nutrition for women’s health Is the law enough? While the legal system is one of the most important elements in navigating crime, other aspects also need to be considered, especially in cases of sexual offences against women. “With regards to navigating sexual harassment cases, I still feel that a lot of sensitivity programs need to be done with executing agencies. Psychological counselling being provided to the victims is also important,” believes Yousuf. “Besides that, we need a lot of changes in the way society looks at rape cases. There is still stigma and victim shaming. Also, false rape cases are filed sometimes. Of course, there are a lot of factors to be considered. As per POCSO, even consensual sex between individuals below 18 years of age is not allowed. Awareness programs need to be conducted among teenagers about what could land them in trouble. Regarding sexual harassment in the workplace, a lot needs to be done on the ground level. Many organisations do not have sexual harassment committees and that needs to be looked at,” she adds. “I believe that a lot of training and awareness that happens in cases of sexual harassment, which is often given precedence over domestic violence. The latter is often not treated seriously, which needs to change. Also, the mindset that sexual violence can only be inflicted by strangers is wrong. What about sexual violence cases in the domestic sphere?” she asks. While the legal system of India is key in providing justice to those who have faced sexual offence, mitigating the issue from the grassroots is important, which involves education, training and a mindset shift.
04 September,2024 10:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina Jain
Ganeshotsav is celebrated with much fervour across the country, but this city in Maharashtra has a special connection. It’s not only the birthplace of the community celebrations that we now associate with the festival, but also a treasure trove of historical anecdotes and traditions that have shaped this cultural phenomenon over the years. Pune, the city that initiated the ‘Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav’ — large-scale public celebrations of the Ganesh festival — originally did so to unite people in the fight against the British regime. As a hub for freedom fighters and social activists, Pune maintained social reform as a central theme of the festivities, with mandals actively engaging in social work and conveying social messages through public pandals. But does this traditional spirit of social consciousness still resonate in Pune's Ganeshotsav celebrations today? “Nilesh Deepak Vakil, Trustee and Karyadhyaksh of the Shree Kasba Ganpati Mandal, says, 'Over the years, we have made efforts to raise awareness about various social issues during Ganeshotsav. At Kasba Ganpati, we focus on two key areas: education and rural development. Each year, we sponsor the education of at least 70 children and have also adopted a village called Khandobachiwadi.'” Kasba Ganpati is one of the oldest and most revered Ganpati mandals in Pune, known for its grand celebrations and activities during the 10-day festivities. "We promote a social message every year. This year, it's about the dangers of mobile addiction. After all, this festival began with a focus on freedom and social issues, so we should unite for causes that serve the community," Vakil further explains. While some Ganpati mandals are keeping the spirit of social reform alive, the essence of the festival is changing in the city. Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: From chocolate modak to shrikhand tart, here are innovative recipes to try this festive season How is Ganeshotsav evolving in Pune? Prashanti, a Pune resident who has observed the festival closely, has seen many changes over the years – some that have increased community participation and others that have taken away from the original purpose. She states, “Earlier, there used to be small, intimate gatherings in homes or community spaces. But now there are large, public events with grand mandaps and widespread participation. Even the atmosphere has changed. It used to be quiet, reflective and focused on community prayer and spiritual connection. Now, the environment is much more vibrant and energetic, and focused on social gatherings, with elements of public awareness campaigns.” Anand Khandelwal, Founder and Secretary, Nadbrahma Dhol Tasha Dhwaj Pathak Trust, Pune, also notes the shift from a focus on spirituality to other elements. “I have been associated with the dhol-tasha tradition since 1999. My whole childhood was spent very close to the place where Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav’s foundation was laid. I stay in the heart of the city and so, I have observed the festival very closely. Earlier, there was a lot of spirituality. Now, I wouldn’t say it has declined but there has been a change in the way the festival is celebrated. Bhajan-kirtan, dhol tasha and other traditions used to adorn the festival. Now, there is innovation and somewhere, the tradition is taking a backseat. Sometimes, it feels like Ganeshotsav is a competition,” he expresses. What other changes have occurred in the way this festival is celebrated? Olkar points out, “The celebrations and processions were characterised by soft, traditional Marathi songs and use of drums and traditional instruments. Now, there’s loud, often DJ-driven music, including popular and non-devotional songs.” “Also, these days, Ganesh idols are being crafted to reflect popular movie trends, with designs inspired by characters from films like Pushpa, Kantara, Bajirao Mastani, or even dressed in police uniforms. Instead of preserving the traditional, simple appearance of Ganesha, there's a tendency to create something flashy and different, which can be frustrating for those who value the original form,” she further states. This change in traditions, however, hasn’t permeated all parts and people of the city. Balancing traditions with innovation While it is only natural for some parts of the festivities to evolve or change with time, Punekars have still managed to keep a large chunk of their traditions alive. “Some people and areas in the city, like the peth area, still follow traditional practices and rituals that have shaped the festival for years,” Khandelwal states. “The main mrivanuk (procession to bring Ganesh idol to the pandal and take for visarjan) has stayed the same over the years. People from across the country come here to witness the visarjan mrivanuk and the excitement is always high. After so many years, Ganeshotsav is still the biggest festival in Pune. Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav started from Pune, and then it reached other parts of Maharashtra,” he informs. “The five most important and honoured Ganpati mandals, also called Manache Ganpati, still head for visarjan first, post which others follow. This has been followed for years,” he adds. Pune has 5 ‘Manache Ganpati’ – the most revered Ganpati idols of the city. These are (in order): Kasba Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, Tulshibaug Ganpati and Kesariwada Ganpati. These five Ganpati idols are first immersed in water. Only after that can other idols be immersed. Another tradition that has stayed alive is preparing or buying ‘ukadiche modak’ during the festivities. This sweet dish, considered to be Bappa’s favourite, has a story of how it became so popular in Pune. Ukadiche modak (Pic: iStock) Sanat Sarpotdar, the fourth-generation entrepreneur of the founding family of the popular Poona Guest House, which is famous for its ukadiche modak, informs, “Handmade (Hatvalniche) ukadiche modak is the favourite food or prasad of Lord Ganesh. Ganeshotsav is widely celebrated in the coastal region of west Maharashtra i.e., Konkan. Ukadiche modak is a traditional sweet of this region, which contains freshly ground coconut, jaggery, khas khas, green, elaichi powder and jaifal powder and its outer covering is made up of local rice flour. Pune is very close to Konkan and a huge chunk of the population from Konkan has shifted here, bringing the popularity of this traditional sweet to the city. Ganesh festival cannot be completed without this sweet.” “On the first day of Ganesh festival, a minimum of 2 lakhs modaks are consumed in Pune,” he states, adding, “Due to Ganpati festival, people from all the states of India and other countries visit Pune and they love to taste traditional food local food too. For the promotion of Maharashtrian authentic food, especially ukadiche modak, we have organised many modak-making workshops through which we have trained more than 5000 women.” However, this traditional sweet dish is not limited to Ganeshotsav anymore. “We have started making ukadiche modak every day throughout the year. Now, people from all over India and abroad are staying in Pune. We started this service to introduce authentic ukadiche modak to all of them,” reveals Sarpotdar. While the authentic taste of these modaks stays alive, their recipes and preparation methods are changing. Poona Guest House, for example, also makes frozen modaks. “Frozen modaks can be kept for a minimum of 6 months. There is a huge demand for these modaks outside Pune and internationally also. Many vendors purchase frozen modaks from us and they send them to other areas,” states Sarpotdar. “Now, we are preparing other flavours also like hapus amba ukadiche modak, strawberry ukadiche modak, etc.,” he concludes. This balance between tradition and innovation is also being maintained by several Ganpati mandals. “The festival has evolved. We introduced reservation for women in our mandal in 2016. So, a lot of women are participating in the activities and festivities. Then there has been a huge boost in technology. People staying away from the mandal are also able to contribute to the work because of technology. It is especially being used for communication,” reveals Vakil. He further states, “We’re trying to innovate with tradition. Those two sound contradictory, but we are trying to maintain a balance. We don’t immerse Kasba Ganpati idols in a river anymore. It is done in a large box. The idol is made of clay, which is environmentally friendly. In 2016, there was a drought in Maharashtra. More flow of water was needed. So, it didn’t feel right to immerse the idol in rivers, which are a major source of water.” Stressing on one tradition that has continued, he says, “Devotees carry the Ganesh idol on their shoulders in a palkhi without wearing footwear. That is a tradition that has continued.” Dhol tasha pathaks, a growing community, have also found an important place in traditional celebrations of Ganeshotsav in Pune. Khandelwal says, “When the dhol tasha tradition initially started in 1983, there were only 5-6 pathaks till 2002, most of which were school pathaks. Today, there are 200-250 dhol tasha pathaks in Pune. Around 50,000-60,000, people are a part of these pathaks. Being a part of such a huge community gives mental satisfaction and prepares one to interact in a community. Dhol tasha is very powerful, it requires time, dedication and devotion. Additionally, it also enhances physical strength because dhols are very heavy. I have interacted with so many parents who have told me that their kid has started eating well and has become more active after becoming a member of the dhol tasha pathak.” Members of Nadbrahma Dhol Tasha Dhwaj Pathak Trust performing However, this tradition has often come under scrutiny by residents due to the loud sound of the instruments. On that, Khandelwal says, “People often see dhol tasha in a negative light, believing it to be just a source of noise. But on a ground level, what difference is it making? That is something no one focuses on.” Dhol tasha pathaks are not only an important part of cultural celebrations in Pune but are also now representing this art form internationally. Enthusiasm among Punekars With time, has the enthusiasm for Ganeshotsav stayed the same among Punekars? “Community participation is still immense. Earlier, all activities used to be limited to the 10 days of Ganeshotsav. But now, due to the large number of people who come for darshan during those days, we have had to shift some social activities, competitions and cultural programmes before the actual festival begins,” informs Vakil, adding, “Yes, things have changed, but there is still a lot of enthusiasm. We have even seen a lot of foreigners coming here to enjoy the Ganesh festival. So, it is also going global.” “The participation and enthusiasm for Ganeshotsav has remained the same among Punekars. Earlier, 8-10 people used to stay in the same house. Now, they are moving out and living in the suburbs. But for the one month of Ganeshotsav preparations and celebrations, people, irrespective of their job, life, etc., come back to the city and participate in mandal activities,” concludes Khandelwal.
03 September,2024 06:21 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainADVERTISEMENT
