Pune Ganapati Mandals Seek Early Start for Visarjan Processions

In a significant development, approximately 20 Ganapati mandals from Pune convened on Tuesday to request an earlier start for their visarjan (immersion) processions, aiming to begin as early as 07:00 hours. This request comes at the conclusion of the annual Ganeshotsav festival, with mandal members advocating for their processions to initiate at least three hours prior to the traditional start time of 10:00 hours for the prominent Manache Ganapati mandals.

The members expressed their frustrations regarding delays caused by larger mandals, which often set back the schedule for smaller groups. They believe that an earlier start would allow them to adhere to their planned timelines without unnecessary waiting. In a show of solidarity, it is anticipated that an additional 80 mandals may join this initiative soon.

Discussions with the Pune police included senior officials such as Amitesh Kumar, the Pune Commissioner of Police, and Ranjan Kumar Sharma, the Joint Commissioner of Police. During these meetings, representatives from the smaller mandals urged the police to accommodate their request. In contrast, members of the larger mandals, including those from Kasba, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, and Keshari Wada, voiced their opposition. They emphasized that altering the traditional procession schedule would undermine long-standing customs.

Shrikant Shirole, a former chairman of the Pune Municipal Corporation standing committee, articulated the need for change. He stated, “Times have changed. The visarjan procession can be started without waiting for the Manache Ganapati mandals.” He proposed that if smaller mandals opted for alternative routes, such as Tilak Road or Lal Bahadur Shashtri Road, the police should permit them to commence at 07:00 hours.

Concerns regarding perceived discrimination against smaller mandals were echoed by Hrushikesh Balgude, who argued for equal treatment in decision-making. He noted that many mandals situated on Laxmi Road were eager to begin their processions earlier. “Why waste time?” Balgude asked, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Despite these discussions, apprehensions linger regarding the police’s ability to satisfy both smaller and larger mandals. Vishal Gund, a member of a smaller mandal, expressed skepticism about police cooperation, stating that he believed the authorities would ultimately capitulate to the pressure from larger groups.

In the midst of these tensions, a member of the Kasba Ganapati mandal, who chose to remain anonymous, defended the traditional processions. He remarked on the historical significance of the Ganeshotsav visarjan and questioned the motives behind altering a well-established ceremony.

The police did indicate a willingness to explore alternative internal routes for smaller mandals to facilitate earlier processions. Commissioner Kumar reiterated the importance of reaching a consensus among all mandals. “I have requested all city mandals to conduct a meeting among themselves in another two days and arrive at some solution,” he said. Kumar emphasized his commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage associated with the Ganapati visarjan processions in Pune.

As the festival approaches, the outcome of these discussions remains to be seen, with all parties hoping for a resolution that respects tradition while accommodating the desires of smaller mandals.