Pune | Correspondent
Following the historic announcement by Maharashtra's Minister of Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar, declaring the public Ganesh festival as the official "Maharashtra Festival", enthusiastic celebrations broke out across Pune. Local Ganeshotsav volunteers gathered at the revered Kasba Ganpati temple — Pune’s gramdaivat (presiding deity) — where they performed aarti and shared sweets to mark the occasion.
The announcement came in response to a demand raised by Hemant Rasane, the MLA from Pune’s Kasba constituency. Minister Shelar acknowledged Rasane's request and declared that the public Ganesh festival, which carries deep social and cultural significance, will henceforth be recognized and celebrated as a state festival of Maharashtra.
The origins of the public Ganeshotsav date back to the efforts of freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who began the festival in Pune to promote unity and public awareness. Over time, it evolved into a nationwide celebration that combines national spirit, social service, awareness, and community bonding. Minister Shelar emphasized that these values continue to define the festival even today.
Speaking further, Shelar pointed out that in recent years, several hurdles were placed in the way of organizing the public Ganesh festival — especially following a particular court ruling, which had led police and administrative bodies to hesitate in granting permissions. However, he assured that the Mahayuti government has successfully removed all such obstacles, clearing the path for a smooth and unhindered celebration of this deeply rooted cultural tradition.
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