Did you know that Lalbaugcha Raja idol is patented?
Lalbaugcha Raja is one of India’s most famous Ganpati pandals, with close to 15 lakh devotees visiting every day. Here’s what makes the idol stand out
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The Lalbaugcha Raja mandal unveiled the latest idol ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which begins on Wednesday (August 27). It is one of the most famous Ganesh pandals in Mumbai. This year’s idol adorns a purple dhoti. PTI
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This year’s mandap is inspired by a palatial setting, featuring a 14-foot idol in the backdrop of shimmering lights and a golden throne. The Lalbaugcha Raja, translated to King of Lalbaug, is believed to grant wishes. PTI
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Each year, thousands of people visit the pandal to catch a glimpse of the deity. According to some reports, the daily footfall can reach up to 15 lakh devotees. Devotees choose between the Navsachi Line (the wish-fulfilment line), where they touch the idol’s feet, and the Mukh Darshan Line, a faster queue offering only a visual darshan without touching. The waiting time for a glimpse of Bappa can be anywhere from 30 to 40 hours. Union Minister Amit Shah visited the pandal in 2024. File image/PTI
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It was the late sculptor Madhusudan Donduji Kambli who first made the idol 1930s. Since then, the responsibility has passed down within the family, with his descendants faithfully recreating the idol every year in their Lalbaug workshop. Today, Santosh Ratnakar Kambli is the one who carries on the work. The idol seen here is from 2023. File image/PTI
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Did you know that the serene smile of the idol has remained the same for the last 90 years? The idol’s features were also copyrighted in 2011; its replication can lead to a jail term and hefty fines. File image/PTI
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Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal secures an insurance policy during the festival every year. The pandal had a ₹32.76 crore policy in 2024, covering its set, property, jewellery, workers, and third-party liabilities. File image/PTI
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On Anant Chaturdashi, Lalbaugcha Raja’s grand visarjan attracts anywhere between 20 to 25 lakh. The immersion procession lasts more than 12 hours, starting on the morning of Anant Chatursashi and concluding at Girgaum Chowpatty the next day. File image/PTI
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