Chants of ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’ Fill Pune as Ganeshotsav Reaches Its Climax, Uniting People of All Ages and Faiths

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande

Pune, 17th September 2024: Ganeshotsav, the festival where everyone comes together as equals, is being celebrated with immense enthusiasm in Pune. No barriers of age, gender, or religion stop anyone from freely participating in the festivities. Even toddlers, just learning to talk or walk, are joining in with their families, while senior citizens, forgetting their physical limitations for the day, celebrate with fervor as if there’s no tomorrow.

The heart of Pune, especially Central Peth areas like Tilak Chowk in Mandai, Belbaug Chowk near Tulshibaug, and Alka Chowk in Narayan Peth, is packed with people. As the Manache Ganpati begin their immersion processions, which are expected to last all day, thousands are gathering to witness the grand spectacle and bid farewell to their beloved Bappa until next year.

Khadakwasla Dam started releasing water this morning to ensure there’s enough in the Mutha River, the lifeline of Punekars, where most immersions will take place throughout the day. Chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya!” echo throughout the city.

With 6,000 police officers deployed across Pune and traffic restrictions in place since 7 AM, the proceedings are running as smoothly as possible. As predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather remains cloudy but dry, making for a rain-free Ganesh Visarjan experience for Puneites.

Laxmi Road, Tilak Road, Bajirao Road, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Road, Central Peth areas, Jangali Maharaj (JM) Road, Fergusson College (FC) Road, Karve Road, Satara Road, and other parts of the city are bustling with people and Dhol Tasha pathaks. The festive atmosphere is a true reflection of the spirit of Ganeshotsav, with Punekars grateful to be part of this vibrant celebration.