Shikhar Pahariya Honors Lalbaugcha Raja with Heartfelt Farewell

Bollywood actor Janhvi Kapoor’s boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya, expressed his sentiments on September 7, 2025, as he bid farewell to the revered Lalbaugcha Raja following the annual Ganeshotsav festivities. The occasion, which celebrates the arrival of Lord Ganesh, concluded after ten days of vibrant celebrations, leaving many devotees, including Pahariya, feeling a sense of longing.

On Sunday, Pahariya shared a series of images on his Instagram account, capturing moments from the visarjan—the immersion of the Ganesh idol into the sea. The photos featured Pahariya alongside the magnificent idol of Lalbaugcha Raja, showcasing the traditional rituals associated with this significant event. In his heartfelt caption, he wrote, “Victory to Lalbaugcha Raja! Ganapati Bappa Moraya… Come soon next year. The city of dreams bows to the remover of obstacles.”

Significance of Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai’s Culture

The Lalbaugcha Raja idol is a central figure in the celebrations organized by the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal. Established in 1934 by the Koli community at Lalbaug Market, this mandal was formed following a vow to create a permanent market space after the previous open market was closed in 1932. The fishermen and vendors dedicated the idol on September 12, 1934, as a gesture of gratitude for the opportunity to establish their market.

As of 2025, the Lalbaugcha Raja has celebrated 92 years since its inception. It remains one of the most iconic representations of Mumbai’s cultural heritage, attracting over a million devotees daily throughout the eleven days of festivities. The event not only holds religious significance but also fosters a sense of community among the city’s diverse population.

The celebrations faced an unprecedented challenge in 2020 when the pandemic forced the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal to cancel its traditional festivities for the first time in 86 years. During that period, the mandal shifted its focus towards raising awareness about COVID-19, highlighting the importance of public health and safety.

Future Projects for Janhvi Kapoor

As Shikhar Pahariya reflects on the emotional farewell to Lalbaugcha Raja, Janhvi Kapoor continues to make headlines with her upcoming projects. She is set to star opposite Varun Dhawan in the film titled Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, which is generating significant anticipation among fans.

The end of the Ganeshotsav festivities marks a poignant moment for many, but the spirit of community and devotion remains alive in the hearts of those who participated. As the city looks forward to next year’s celebrations, devotees and followers alike hold onto the hope that Lalbaugcha Raja will return once more to bless the city of dreams.