Pune’s Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Celebrated with Splendor

The annual immersion ceremony of the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati took place on October 7, 2023, in Pune, drawing thousands of devotees to celebrate the occasion with fervor. Marked by a vibrant atmosphere, the procession featured a stunningly decorated chariot, the ‘Shri Ganesh Ratna Rath,’ which carried the idol of Lord Ganesh through the streets, accompanied by music, chants, and enthusiastic crowds.

As the procession commenced at around 10:30 PM, the chariot dazzled onlookers with its floral adornments and cold fire lighting. Devotees showered the procession with turmeric powder and flowers, creating a lively scene filled with the sounds of traditional Dhol-Tasha pathaks, which energized participants with rhythmic beats. Many gathered along the route to catch a glimpse of their beloved deity, chanting “Morya, Morya” in unison.

At 7:30 AM, DCP Krushikesh Rawale performed an ‘Aarti’ before the immersion, honoring the significance of the occasion during the festival of Anant Chaturdarshi. The journey of the idol was carefully planned, with the special chariot making its way to the Tilak statue near Mandai at 8:00 AM, joining the larger immersion procession that would follow.

The immersion procession has been a long-standing tradition for the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati Trust, with the event being celebrated for over 134 years. This year, the trust’s Celebration Chief, Punit Balan, served as the charioteer of the new ‘Shri Ganesh Ratna Rath.’ The procession reached Belbaug Chowk at approximately 11:30 PM, where the excitement continued to build.

In a statement, Balan expressed his gratitude toward the police and civic authorities for their support, highlighting the smooth execution of the event. “We completed the immersion procession this year with revelry and enthusiasm. We entered the procession after the police department granted us access,” Balan noted. He emphasized the importance of timely arrangements, mentioning that had they started as scheduled, more devotees could have participated without delays.

The procession culminated at Panchaleshwar Visarjan Ghat, where the idol was immersed in an artificial tank around 3:50 AM. The atmosphere was charged with emotion and devotion as attendees witnessed the final moments of the idol being submerged, marking the end of this year’s celebrations.

The Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati festival continues to be a focal point of cultural and spiritual significance in Pune. The use of an elaborately designed chariot has become a highlight, drawing in crowds eager to capture the moment on their mobile devices. This year’s event showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of the community, creating lasting memories for all who participated.