immersion day
Over 100 mandals this year have taken up this anti-drug awareness initiative which will be seen during the visarjan procession,” he said.
Suryawanshi said the campaign was not confined to conventional substance abuse alone but also addressed excessive screen dependency. We have been telling pathaks for years not to use them, but with the HC’s ban this year, the restriction will be strictly enforced,” Thete said. But at the front will be a different kind of message. Manav Seva Rath will carry an anti-drug campaign, aimed particularly at young minds. “Ganeshotsav gives us a powerful public platform to speak about issues affecting young people. We want to remind them that health comes first, and that citizens also have a responsibility to demand action when something is harming our children. The shift does not mean the drums are exempt from regulation. “Bombay high court has completely banned the use of metal gas cylinders struck with hammers as musical instruments by dhol-tasha troupes during processions.
Community Celebrates Ganapati Festival Amidst Growing Crowds
In Wanowrie, Mahesh Raut’s family is preparing to take their Ganapati idol on a procession around their society premises before heading to an immersion tank in Kedarinagar. Raut explained, “We take the idol around the society campus a couple of times before heading out for immersion. After that, families have their own plans.”
The tradition attracts many, including Rasta Peth resident Parag Gaikwad, who has participated in the procession with his family since childhood. Gaikwad noted the increased crowd size over the years, stating, “It has become more crowded over the years. We dress for the occasion but choose comfortable shoes because there is so much walking, and you can easily get stepped on in the crowd. Carrying water is essential too.”
The Ganapati festival is a significant cultural event, fostering community spirit, though it poses challenges such as navigating through large crowds.