Lalbaug's 'Mumbaicha Raja' idol to be four feet tall this year; officials announce only online darshan

The dates of Mumbai's beloved Dahi Handi and Ganeshotsav festivals are nearing, and every year, lakhs of enthusiasts and devotees eagerly wait for these festivities to begin. However, due to an increasing number of coronavirus cases in the city, officials have requested the authorities of several mandals and associations to ensure that the celebrations this year is either cancelled or conducted in a simple manner 

Keeping this in mind, several groups and associations have already announced the cancellation of festivities. However, some renowned Ganpati mandals have agreed to support the government and celebrate the festival in a simple manner. In a recently helped meeting with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, these associations agreed that there will not be any processions this year, thereby making sure social distancing rules were respected.

On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Lalbaug, Mumbai - the association managing Mumbai's popular Mumbaicha Raja has taken an important decision, where officials have decided to use only a four feet eco-friendly idol this year. Devotees will be able to see the live darshan and seek the blessings during Ganesh Chaturthi this year. Further, Bappa will be immersed in an artificial Lake. Besides this, amidst the coronavirus lockdown, the mandal has also decided to not receive any donations this year. The Secretary of Mumbaicha Raja Mandal, Swapnil Parab, recently confirmed the news.

The decision taken by the officials Has been appreciated both by the government and the public. Observing the crisis, the board has also provided financial assistance to Chief ministers relief fund. 

Early in the month of June, Wadala's popular GSB Ganpati Mandal decided to cancel the celebrations this year and have postponed the celebrations to February 2021 during the Maghi Ganeshotsav festival.

Besides this, several associations who organize the Dahi Handi celebrations have decided to either celebrate in a simple manner or cancel the festival. In a recent announcement, BJP leader Ram Adam, took to Twitter to announce the cancellation of the celebrations which are organised in Ghatkopar every year.