Mumbai is gearing up for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations scheduled from September 14, with Maharashtra’s capital expected to see large crowds and elaborate festivities.
At Kings Circle, the GSB Seva Mandal is set to hold its 72nd year of celebrations. A massive Ganesh idol has been installed for the occasion, with the inauguration planned for September 12.
Organisers said the idol and related arrangements have been insured for Rs 703.27 crore, considering the scale of the event and security requirements. The idol will be adorned with offerings including 66 kg of gold, 335 kg of silver and jewellery set with precious stones.
According to the mandal’s spokesperson Amit Bhai, the insurance package also covers personal accident insurance for priests, volunteers and staff, along with coverage for the pandal and potential damages.
The five-day festival, to be held from September 14 to 18, is expected to draw around two lakh devotees. Arrangements have also been made to serve annadanam to about 40,000 people daily. Last year’s insurance cover was Rs 474 crore, and the amount has risen this year due to higher gold and silver prices.
