Pune to unveil 125-foot Shiva temple replica for Ganeshotsav on Sept 7
- The Dagdusheth Ganapati Trust is unveiling a 125-foot replica of the Jatoli Shiva Mandir on September 7, coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi.
- The festival will feature various events, including a mass recitation of Atharvashirsha by 31,000 women and daily rituals.
- The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and provide medical aid, ensuring a safe and inclusive celebration for all attendees.
The Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Public Ganapati Trust is celebrating its 132nd year with a grand replica of the Jatoli Shiva Mandir, which is known as Asia's tallest Shiva temple. This replica, made from fiber and painted, will be unveiled on Ganesh Chaturthi, September 7, at 11:11 am, with a Pranpratishtha ceremony led by Sri Gyanraj Maharaj Manik Prabhu. The temple's lights and decorations will be inaugurated by Union Minister Muralidhar Mohol later that evening. The replica measures 125 feet long, 50 feet wide, and 100 feet high, designed for easy viewing from a distance. Contributions from various experts, including art director Aman Viddate and lighting expert Vaikar Bandhu, have enhanced its architectural appeal. A lion-themed chariot will carry the deity adorned with floral decorations, allowing devotees to view the deity from noon. On September 8, a significant event will take place where 31,000 women will gather to recite Atharvashirsha, attended by notable literary figure Dr. Aruna Dhere. The festival will also include daily rituals such as Maha Abhishek Pooja and Ganesha Yag, along with a mass Satyavinayak Puja scheduled for September 16. To ensure the well-being of attendees, the Jai Ganesh Arogyaseva Abhiyan will provide 24-hour free medical aid centers. Additionally, four LED screens will be set up for better accessibility, and online darshan will be available through the trust's digital platforms, ensuring a secure environment monitored by CCTV and private security personnel.