Amid Downpour and Devotion: Mumbai’s Faithful Brave Rains to Say Goodbye to Beloved Lalbaugcha Raja.
By AMIT ALHAT, Editor, TIN24
MUMBAI: September 7, 2025
In a mesmerizing blend of faith, festivity, and fortitude, thousands of devotees converged on the iconic Girgaon Chowpatty seafront in south Mumbai this Sunday morning, undeterred by relentless rains and stringent security measures. The emotional climax of the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival unfolded as the city bid a heartfelt adieu to the majestic Lalbaugcha Raja—the undisputed star of Mumbai’s Ganesh celebrations—and a host of other elephant-headed deity idols, immersing them into the Arabian Sea in a ritual symbolizing the god’s return to his divine abode.
The grand immersion processions, a hallmark of Mumbai’s vibrant cultural tapestry, kicked off on Saturday evening in honor of Anant Chaturdashi, the auspicious day marking the festival’s conclusion. Leading the spectacle was the world-renowned Lalbaugcha Raja, a towering 14-foot idol adorned with gold, jewels, and intricate decorations that has captivated devotees for over eight decades since its inception in 1934. Accompanied by thumping dhol beats, traditional aartis, and chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya,” the processions snaked through the bustling streets of Girgaon, weaving past historic landmarks and teeming crowds before culminating at the shore under the first light of dawn.
Despite the unseasonal downpour that lashed the city overnight, the spirit of the devotees remained unyielding. Umbrellas bobbed like colorful lotus blooms amid the sea of saffron and marigold, while families, young and old, splashed through puddles to catch a final glimpse of their beloved Bappa. “The rains only make the farewell more poignant—it’s as if Lord Ganesha himself is blessing us with his tears,” shared Priya Sharma, a longtime devotee from nearby Dadar, clutching a small modak offering as she watched the idol’s gentle descent into the waves.
Security was ramped up to an unprecedented level, with over 5,000 police personnel, including rapid response teams and marine units, deployed along the procession routes and seafront. Drones hovered overhead for aerial surveillance, and barricades ensured smooth crowd management, preventing any untoward incidents in the massive gathering estimated at over 100,000 participants. Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar commended the public’s cooperation, stating, “The seamless coordination between mandals, volunteers, and law enforcement has once again showcased Mumbai’s resilience and devotion.”
The Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, organizers of the famed idol, highlighted the eco-friendly aspects of this year’s immersion, incorporating biodegradable clay and natural dyes to minimize environmental impact. As the idol was lowered into the sea amid fireworks and fervent prayers, the air echoed with promises of “Pudchya Varshi Lavkar Ya” (Come again soon next year), underscoring the unbreakable bond between the city and its remover of obstacles.
This year’s festival, celebrated with even greater zeal post the global challenges of recent years, not only revitalized Mumbai’s streets with joy but also boosted local economies through artisan crafts, street food, and tourism. As the waters claimed the idols, the city reflected on the lessons of wisdom, prosperity, and unity that Lord Ganesha imparts annually.
TIN24 will continue to bring you updates on post-festival clean-up drives and community initiatives inspired by this grand send-off. Stay tuned for more from the heart of Mumbai’s celebrations.
Author: The India News 24
TIN24 (The India News 24) The India News 24 (TIN24) is a Mumbai-based news Digital Media focusing on breaking news, local and regional issues in India, with content primarily in Marathi. It was established with an X (Twitter) presence since July 2022. Owner & News Editor: Amit Alhat Education: BA in Mass Communication Journalism (Graduate) Experience: 12 years in journalism Platforms: - Website: https://theindianews24.in - X (Twitter): https://x.com/the_indianews24 - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theindianews247 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theindianews_24
