Ganeshotsav, which has a rich tradition of 100 years in Maharashtra, has now been given the status of 'Rajya Mahotsav' (State Festival). From this year, the Maharashtra government will directly participate in the festival and take steps to bring prestige to the festival at the national and international levels.
The detailed plan of this initiative was announced in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly by Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar.
In a statement given in the House, Minister Shelar said, "Maharashtra is a land rich in art, culture and traditions. It is rich in saints, social reformers, great leaders, warriors, spiritual thinkers and an all-encompassing heritage.
This holy land of the Deccan has remained intellectually vibrant and socially cohesive, which lays the foundation for the economic, social and cultural progress of the state. Ganeshotsav has played a key role in promoting this unity.
The centuries-old tradition of household Ganeshotsav and the public Ganeshotsav culture that has been going on for decades are proud symbols of Maharashtra's cultural and social culture."
"The world should understand the social and cultural significance of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is time to connect our traditions with modernity, strengthen this culturally significant platform, bring together all stakeholders, promote tourism, preserve our rich rituals and customs and firmly establish Maharashtra on the global map. For this, the Maharashtra government has decided to celebrate Ganeshotsav as a state festival, which is celebrated in the diverse geographical and cultural landscapes of Maharashtra."
"In order to maintain the traditional essence of this festival while embracing modern elements and to make every citizen of the state feel directly or indirectly connected to these festivals, it is necessary to declare Ganeshotsav as a state festival. The Maharashtra government will play a facilitating and enabling role in this."
Highlights of the Government’s Participation in Ganeshotsav 2025:
• Release of the logo of the state festival dedicated to Ganeshotsav.
• State-wide cultural programmes showcasing the rich art, culture and traditions of Maharashtra will be organised not only in Maharashtra but also outside the state and abroad in places with Marathi population.
• Lecture series will be organised on the importance of Ganeshotsav.
• A special spiritual drama festival during this period
• Creation of a digital portal for live online darshan of major temples and public Ganeshotsav Mandals.
• Competition and awards for the best public Ganesh Mandals at the taluka level.
• Development of a platform for uploading photos and video clips of home and public Ganeshotsav.
• Special recognition for films depicting traditions, art and culture related to Ganesha.
• Publication of Ganesh-themed postage stamps and souvenirs.
• State-wide reel competition on Ganesha-related content.
• Drone show to be organized during the festival.
• Wide media coverage through newspapers, TV, radio and social media for national awareness.
• Special initiatives to attract inter-state and international tourists.
• Illumination and beautification of major festival venues.
• Financial and material assistance to traditional Bhajan Mandals performing devotional songs and Aarti.
• Organization of state-level Bhajan competition
• Arrangement of immersion ceremony with transport and facilities for international and out-of-state tourists.
• Initiation of programs to involve international students studying in Maharashtra in the celebrations.