In a grand display for the 2024 Ganesh festival, a prominent mandal in Mumbai has constructed a 52-foot replica of the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial from Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. The Bandra West Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, known for its tradition of replicating famous religious sites, has once again impressed devotees and visitors alike. The festival, which began on Saturday, is drawing attention to this unique replica that pays tribute to Swami Vivekananda, one of India’s greatest spiritual leaders.
Special Attractions for Visitors
The Bandra West Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal has established itself as a hub for intricate recreations of notable religious sites. Last year, the mandal constructed a replica of Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar temple, while previous years have seen them recreate other sacred landmarks, including Kedarnath temple, Lord Vitthal temple in Maharashtra, Pashupatinath temple, Sai Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi, and Shri Mangesh temple from Goa. The 2024 Vivekananda Rock Memorial is the latest addition to this impressive lineup.
Special lamps imported from Hyderabad have been integrated into this year’s display, adding a unique visual element to the pandal. This feature is expected to attract younger crowds, according to reports. Ashish Shelar, the chief advisor of the mandal and Mumbai’s BJP president, highlighted the importance of this year’s creation, noting that the mandal has been celebrating Ganeshotsav for 29 years. Shelar also recalled that during their silver jubilee celebrations, the mandal recreated Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s house in Ratnagiri.
The Legacy of Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Shelar emphasized that the Bandra Reclamation mandal is more than just a religious venue. People from various castes and religions participate in the celebrations, making it a symbol of unity and shared enthusiasm for Ganeshotsav. The mandal is also a popular destination for dignitaries from the world of cinema, sports, politics, and social service, further cementing its status as one of Mumbai's leading Ganesh mandals.
The original Vivekananda Rock Memorial is located off the coast of Kanyakumari and was built in 1970 to honor Swami Vivekananda, who is said to have attained enlightenment on these rocks in December 1892. The replica built by the Bandra West mandal is a homage to this significant site and the ideals of Vivekananda. Jeetendra Raut, president of the mandal, shared that the pandal housing the replica is beautifully illuminated, with the lamps brought from Hyderabad as an added attraction.
Ganeshotsav Features Mahakal Temple Replica
While Mumbai celebrates its Ganesh festival with grandeur, Pune’s mandals are also known for their creative displays. One of the most anticipated pandals in Pune, with a 59-year history, has recreated Ujjain’s Mahakal temple, allowing devotees to experience the spiritual ambiance of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The replica, measuring 120 feet in length and 61 feet in height, was designed by renowned set designer Mahesh Kore, who is highly regarded in the Marathi film industry. The artistry and devotion that go into creating these elaborate replicas have become a hallmark of Ganeshotsav celebrations in both Mumbai and Pune. These mandals not only offer a spiritual experience for devotees but also provide a visual treat for the countless visitors who flock to see them during the festival season.
Share
Tweet
