In an endeavour to foster unity among the residents spanning from Sector 2 to Sector 9 in Sanpada, the founding members of the Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal established an idol of Lord Ganesha as part of the age-old tradition of 'Ek Gaon Ek Ganpati' during the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi in 1994, specifically in Sector 8.

Since then, this ten-day Hindu festival, in line with the vision of freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak to provide a platform for people of all castes and communities at a time when public social and political gatherings were banned by the British in 1893, has gained immense popularity among devoted followers. This resonance is evident in Sanpada, a rapidly developing node in Navi Mumbai, where the installed idol of the Elephant God, revered as the wish-fulfilling Lord, is affectionately known as 'Sanpada Cha Raja' during the Ganeshotsav celebrations.

In its 30th year of existence, the organizing committee of the mandal has ensured that the celebrations are nothing short of spectacular. The festivities commenced with the grand welcome of a 12.5-feet tall Ganesha idol crafted by Kumbhar Bhandu Bandekar, based in Bhandup. The idol's procession was accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional Nashik Dhol, Tasha, and Mridangam, accompanied by melodious devotional songs, all leading to its temporary abode at the sprawling Hutatma Babu Genu Said Ground near Sanpada Police station.

As a tribute to the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Coronation earlier this year, the dedicated members of Avishakar Prabodhan have constructed a significant courtyard featuring a bust of the legendary Maratha warrior king in the presence of the Ganesha idol. A photo exhibition showcasing various Ganesha idols installed by the mandal over the past 25 editions, before standardizing on the current height with minor modifications, provides a nostalgic glimpse of celebrations from bygone years.

The festivities this year encompass a range of social-cultural activities, including a tree plantation drive and health and eye check-up camps for individuals of all age groups over the weekend. Furthermore, daily essentials such as fruits and food items will be donated to an old-age ashram in Nerul. In an effort to encourage greater participation, the organizing committee has arranged various competitions for women, including cooking and folk dances.

Mandal Office Bearers:

President: Shivaji Dhamle

Secretary: Babaji Indore

Treasurer: Swapnil Rode