Sanpada: The 30th edition of the Ganeshotsav organised by the Nakhwa Sitaram Bhagat Cultural Festival Mandal, Sanpada, is attracting devotees with a unique social awareness theme centred on the lives and teachings of Maharashtra’s revered saints.

The festival’s main attraction, ‘Sonkhar Cha Raja’, has been installed under the guidance of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Dashrath Bhagat. The nine-foot idol, made from eco-friendly paper pulp, reflects the mandal’s focus on environmentally responsible celebrations.

The pandal features a specially created ‘Sant Srushti’ display showcasing the contributions, social messages and teachings of various saints through visual presentations and moving exhibits. The initiative has drawn devotees from Sanpada and other parts of Navi Mumbai.

A distinctive aspect of the festival is the active involvement of senior citizens, who take responsibility for managing and conducting several activities. Residents and housing societies from the Sanpada-Sonkhar (Palm Beach) area are also participating in the celebrations.

As part of its community initiatives, the mandal has organised health camps in association with reputed hospitals and doctors, along with registration and distribution of government concession certificates for senior citizens. Karaoke competitions, sports and cultural activities for children have also been arranged. A community feast will be held on Anant Chaturdashi.

The mandal was founded by Dashrath Bhagat, while corporator Nishant Karsan Bhagat serves as president and Hemant Desai as working president. Shri Budheshwar Charitable Trust is also supporting the festival.

The immersion procession will feature traditional musical instruments but no gulal. The idol will be immersed at the Jagruteshwar Shiva Temple lake in Vashigaon on Anant Chaturdashi.