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Established in 1892, long before Lokmanya Tilak popularised Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, Bhausaheb Rangari’s vision gave Pune its first public mandal
The consecration (pran-pratishtha) of the idol was performed by renowned spiritual orator and youth icon Jaya Kishori. Pic/News18
In the heart of the old city of Pune, where narrow lanes open into vibrant courtyards, the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati once again set the tone for Maharashtra’s most beloved festival. On Ganesh Chaturthi morning, as the city awoke to dhol-tasha rhythms and saffron flags swaying in the breeze, India’s first public Ganpati Mandal welcomed Lord Ganesha with a blend of faith, heritage, and community spirit.
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The day’s proceedings carried a sense of history. Established in 1892, the Rangari Ganpati Mandal was born during the freedom struggle when Bhausaheb Rangari, a social reformer and freedom fighter, brought the Ganesh idol to a public pandal. His aim was more than religious—it was to use the festival as a meeting point for people to gather, share ideas, and unite against colonial rule. Long before Lokmanya Tilak popularised Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, Rangari’s vision gave Pune its first public mandal, making this idol a living reminder of India’s fight for independence.
This year, that spirit of unity was visible once again. The consecration (pran-pratishtha) of the idol was performed by renowned spiritual orator and youth icon Jaya Kishori. Thousands of devotees filled the streets around Shukrawar Peth, chanting “Ganpati Bappa Morya” as she performed the rituals amidst Vedic chants. Many described the moment as both deeply spiritual and emotionally stirring.
Earlier in the morning, the traditional Mangala Aarti marked the festival’s beginning, and the grand procession had wound its way through Pune’s historic lanes. The sights and sounds were unmistakably Puneri: seven dhol-tasha troupes beating in thunderous rhythm, martial art displays of lathi-kathi, conches blowing, and volunteers pulling the mandal’s chariot—not by oxen, but with their own hands. Festival trustee Puneet Balan explained, “For us, pulling the chariot is an act of devotion. It is symbolic of our unity and pride.”
The procession stood out not just for its energy but for its discipline. In keeping with tradition, the Mandal chose a DJ-free celebration, allowing the natural cadence of dhol-tasha and chants to dominate. “The true beauty of Ganeshotsav lies in preserving culture in its original form,” Jaya Kishori remarked, praising the mandal for keeping heritage intact while inspiring the younger generation to understand its roots.
Festival coordinator and trustee of Bhausahbe Rangari Ganapati Mandal, Puneet Balan, highlighted one of the mandal’s distinctive traditions. “Unlike elsewhere, the chariot of Lord Ganesha here is not pulled by oxen but by the mandal’s own volunteers, a practice that has become a symbol of devotion and pride for the members, which we have been following for many years.”
For many Punekars, attending the Rangari Mandal’s first-day celebrations is less about ritual and more about being part of something timeless. Families with children on their shoulders, elders recalling past years, and young volunteers managing crowds with precision—all became part of a collective devotion that blurred the line between performer and spectator. As the day wore on, the air around Shukrawar Peth remained festive. Cultural performances followed the consecration, with devotees flocking to catch a glimpse of the idol. The energy of the morning continued to ripple across Pune, marking the start of ten days that will see the city alive with devotion. For Pune, and indeed Maharashtra, the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati is more than just the beginning of Ganeshotsav. It is a reminder of how faith once fuelled freedom, how tradition continues to shape community life, and how the beats of dhol-tasha can carry not just sound but history itself.
As Ganeshotsav unfolds, Punekars know that it all begins here—where devotion and heritage meet, and where Lord Ganesha first stepped into the public heart of the city.
About the Author
Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa…Read More
Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa… Read More
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