Mumbai’s Oldest Ganpati Mandal: Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha in Girgaon

Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival that brings Mumbai alive with vibrant celebrations and a spirit of devotion. Among the myriad Ganpati mandals that adorn the city during this auspicious time, the Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha in Keshavji Naik Chawl, Girgaon stands out as a beacon of tradition and history. Established over a century ago, this Ganpati mandal holds the distinction of being Mumbai’s oldest, reflecting a deep legacy of cultural and religious significance. In this article, we talk about the origins, evolution, and significance of this iconic institution, exploring how it has continued to shape the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Mumbai.

The Origins of Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha

Founded in 1893, the Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha is a venerable institution that was established by the efforts of Lokmanya Tilak and his associates. The idea behind its creation was to foster communal harmony and celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi as a public festival, making it accessible to all, irrespective of social standing. This initiative was part of a broader movement to revive and promote cultural and religious unity during the British colonial period.

Historical Milestones

1893: Founding Year

The inception of Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha marked a significant moment in Mumbai’s cultural landscape. The mandal was established in Girgaon, a bustling locality that has since become synonymous with Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

1920s: Expansion and Recognition

During the early 20th century, the mandal gained prominence and expanded its reach. The celebrations began to attract attention from across the city, becoming a significant event in Mumbai’s cultural calendar. "Many celebrities and noteworthy people like activist and philosopher Pandurang Shastri Athavale, cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, politicians Amit Shah and Uddhav Thackeray have visited here," said one of the residents who did not want to reveal their name.

1970s: Renovation and Modernization

In the latter half of the 20th century, the mandal underwent major renovations to accommodate the growing number of devotees and adapt to modern requirements. This period saw the introduction of new traditions while preserving the essence of the original celebrations.

2020s: Celebrating 132 Years

In 2023, the Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha celebrated its 131st year. The centenary celebrations were marked by grand festivities that honoured its rich legacy while embracing contemporary innovations in the festival organisation.

Celebrations and Traditions

The mandal is renowned for its grand Ganpati idol, which is a focal point of the celebrations. Traditionally, the idol is sculpted with intricate details and adorned with elaborate decorations. The idol's size and design have evolved over the years, reflecting changes in artistic trends and community preferences.

As you enter the lane leading to this chawl, the raucous noise typical of modern Ganeshotsav celebrations suddenly quiets. It feels as if you’ve stepped back a century. There are no loudspeakers, flashy decorations, or DJ music—just a simple, modest setup. At the far end of the courtyard stands a humble platform with a two-and-a-half-foot Ganesh idol. "We want to keep the traditional way of celebrating Ganesh Utsav alive and hence we don't bring big idols, do fancy decorations and play loud music," said the resident of the Keshavji Naik Chawl.

Fresh flowers and fruits adorn either side of the idol, set against a small yet ornate backdrop. The Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Sanstha shuns loudspeakers and extravagant decor, opting instead for an eco-friendly idol of the same size from the same sculptor's family, a tradition they've maintained for four generations.

The Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha has always emphasised inclusivity and public participation. The festival is marked by a range of events including cultural performances, religious rituals, and community feasts. This approach aligns with Lokmanya Tilak’s vision of making Ganesh Chaturthi a collective celebration.

Over the years, the mandal has played a pivotal role in fostering communal harmony and cultural pride. The festival serves as a platform for various cultural activities and social initiatives, reinforcing the sense of community among Mumbai’s residents.

And the Tradition Continues

The Shree Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Sanstha in Girgaon is not just a Ganpati mandal; it is a living piece of Mumbai’s cultural and religious history. With its 131-year legacy, it continues to be a symbol of tradition, unity, and devotion. As it celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi, it carries forward the vision of its founders, blending time-honoured customs with modern innovations. For Mumbaikars, it remains a cherished institution, embodying the spirit of the festival and the vibrant life of the city.