Pune's Ganesh Mandals Seek Changes in Traditional Procession Order

Ganesh mandals in Pune are negotiating with police to alter traditional procession schedules during the Ganesh festival. Traditionally subordinate mandals want to start earlier due to long waits. Meetings with police and prominent mandals are underway to find an amicable solution for upcoming celebrations.

Pune's Ganesh mandals have approached local authorities, requesting permission to commence their idol immersion processions ahead of the five traditionally revered Manache Ganpati Mandals for the forthcoming festival season.

On Tuesday, dual meetings at the Pune police commissioner's office saw representatives from these mandals and the Manache Ganpati Mandals, emphasizing the latter's customary precedence during rituals. An anonymous ganesh mandal office-bearer noted frustrations over potentially waiting until midnight, advocating for a procession start at 7 am from different routes.

Meanwhile, Shrikant Shete of Kasba Ganpati Mandal stated no final decision was reached, encouraging a unified approach among city mandals. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar assured harmonious decision-making, highlighting peace and stability as priorities for the Ganeshotsav celebrations.