The idol of Lord Ganesha at the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav temple in Mumbai on Thursday. (Image: PTI)
The Lalbaugcha Raja of Mumbai is one of the most revered idols of Ganesh. Adorned with exquisite gold jewellery, this huge idol is displayed in a large pandal for about 11 days and attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims from all over the world.
Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most spectacular festivals in India, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur. Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, this sacred event celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the bringer of good fortune. This year, the festival will be celebrated from September 7 to 17, according to Drik Panchang.
As Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 approaches, devotees are eagerly awaiting their visit to Mumbai’s famous Lalbaugcha Raja. The “King of Lalbaug”, located in Putalabai Chawl, is one of the most revered Ganesh idols in Mumbai. Adorned with exquisite gold jewellery, this massive idol is displayed in a large pandal for about 11 days, attracting thousands of devotees and pilgrims from across the world.
What is the significance of Lalbaugcha Raja?
Lalbaugcha Raja, one of the most revered Ganeshotsavs in India, has been a cherished tradition since its inception in 1934. Celebrated annually at the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, this grand celebration is steeped in history and is believed to be blessed by Lord Ganesha himself, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of his devotees.
The iconic Ganpati pandal attracts a diverse crowd, including prominent business leaders, celebrities and even overseas Indians, all eager to pay obeisance to the majestic idol of Lord Ganesha.
This pandal usually has two queues – one for Mukh Darshan and another for Navasachi. Navasachi is for those who want to worship God by coming close and touching his feet. The Navsachi queue takes a little longer, around 20-25 hours, to reach the idol.
Lalbaugcha Raja 2024: Darshan Timings
Darshan at Lalbaugcha Raja begins early in the morning and continues till late in the evening. The timing is as follows:
- Darshan: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
- Morning Pooja: 6:00 am to 7:00 am
- Evening Pooja: 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Evening Pooja: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Morning Aarti: 7:00 am to 7:15 am
- Evening Aarti: 1:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
How can I watch Lalbaugcha Raja's LIVE darshan online?
The organizers of Lalbaugcha Raja will offer live online darshan to devotees who are unable to attend in person. The sessions are available on the official website of the Mandal as well as on social media channels such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Live streaming is also available throughout the day and night. Additionally, live webcast of the event will be done on the YouTube channel.
Here is a list of websites where you can watch the live streaming of the famous Ganpati idol at Lalbaugcha Raja:
Official website: https://lalbaugcharaja.com/en/.
YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/user/LalbaugRaja.
Facebook Page: https://m.facebook.com/LalbaugchaRaja.
Instagram page: https://instagram.com/lalbaugcharaja.
Page X, formerly Twitter: https://twitter.com/lalbaugcharaja.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: How to order Prasad online
The organisers of Lalbaugcha Raja have reportedly partnered with Jio Mart and Paytm to deliver Prasad online. Devotees who are unable to reach the holy pandal in person can order Prasad at their doorstep with just a click of a button. It is crucial to note that JioMart will only accept orders in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane.
Each Prasad pack includes two pieces of Bundi laddu. The sweets cost just Rs 51, inclusive of all taxes. There is no minimum order and delivery is completely free. The holy Prasad will now be available through Paytm for devotees living outside Mumbai, across India and even outside India. It is important to note that 250 grams of dry fruits are included with every Paytm order.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: How to reach Lalbaugcha Raja
By train: To reach Lalbaugcha Raja by train, get off at Lower Parel station and walk to the pandal. If you are travelling on the Central Railway line, you can also get off at Curry Road station.
By road: If you are driving, navigate through Chhatrapati Shivaji Ground (Garam Khada) and TB Kadam Marg to reach Lalbaugcha Raja.
Crowds can be significant, so it is recommended to arrive early to minimize wait time and make the most of your visit to the Ganpati idol for blessings.
