As the city eagerly prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi, excitement and devotion fill the air. The festivities at Andhericha Raja on Veera Desai Road, Andheri West, take on a regal charm. The Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti, which has lovingly curated the Andhericha Raja pandal for 59 years, continues to bring an aura of magical divinity to Ganeshotsav. Devotees from all walks of life flock to this sacred site, drawn by the powerful ‘mukh darshan’ of Lord Ganesha, who is believed to bless his followers by fulfilling their deepest wishes and desires. This year, the awe-inspiring decor not only enhances the grandeur of the occasion but also deepens the spiritual connection, leaving every visitor in awe of the divine presence that defines this beloved celebration.
Inspired by the majestic Patwa Ki Haveli of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, known for its intricate design and royal charm, the pandal decor infuses Mumbai’s cultural landscape with a regal touch. The pandal’s detailed replicas of the haveli’s jharokhas, carvings, and traditional elements create an immersive experience that showcases India’s rich heritage. Inside the 40 x 110 feet area, the main Ghabhara will house the towering 9-foot idol of Andhericha Raja, modeled after the haveli’s main meeting hall and adorned with an exquisite chandelier.
Outside the Ghabhara, a Rang Mandap will be set up for devotees waiting for darshan, along with bhajans, kirtans, and other cultural events. This area will have air conditioning and be decorated with seven chandeliers. A special Tula Daan stage is also being prepared, and there will be a dedicated area for distributing prasad, lit by three beautiful chandeliers. The stunning pandal, designed by Dharmesh Shah and a team of 70 skilled workers, took 45 days to build and is eco-friendly, with plans to reuse it in future celebrations.
The committee has put in place extensive arrangements to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for the over 3 lakh visitors expected for Darshan and blessings. The premises includes a spacious outdoor area with stalls and displays monitored by 40 cctv cameras and 25 fire cylinders with male and female security personnel, mandal volunteers, local police support. According to the Chairperson, appropriate clothing will be available for those unaware of the dress code, as entry is restricted for visitors in shorts or sleeveless attire. If needed, visitors can borrow suitable clothing from the pandal to ensure that no one misses the opportunity to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings.
Additionally, ramps have been installed to accommodate wheelchairs, with special assistance provided for senior citizens and mothers with newborns to make their Darshan experience more comfortable.
The managing committee has overseen that all devotees get an opportunity for Charan Sparsh Darshan of Bappa. As devotees gather to pay their respects to Bappa in this awe-inspiring setting, they will undoubtedly carry with them not just blessings, but the memory of a truly grand and unforgettable celebration.
The Visarjan will take place on the 21st of September (Sankashti), 2024 from 6 pm onwards.
Live Darshan of the Andhericha Raja will be available on social media !
About the Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti : Established in 1966, the Samiti has been proudly celebrating Ganeshotsav for the past 58 years. Along with the grand Ganeshotsav festivities, the Samiti is dedicated to organizing various cultural and social awareness programs throughout the year, including Dahi Handi Utsav, Navratri Utsav, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. The Samiti also hosts medical camps, cricket tournaments, and other sports activities for the residents of Azad Nagar. The Samiti has been donating food and clothing to Adivasi in Palghar.
