The entire country is currently celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, and so is Pune, where the festival actually originated from. Pune is home to Manache 5 Ganpati, which is a symbol of great reverence and honor amidst the celebrations. Because of their historical significance, all five of these Ganpatis are highly respected by believers.
1. Kasba Ganpati
Kasaba Ganpati, also known as the Gramadevta, is Pune's ruling deity, a status bestowed by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The ancient idol was found near Vinayak Thakar's home and Masaheb Jijabai Bhosale's home. This temple, which was constructed in 1639 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Jijabai Bhosale, is very significant historically.
2. Tambdi Jogeshwari
The name means red Jogeshwari, and the temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Gramdevi of Pune City. The temple, built in the 15th century, has celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi since 1893. During the Ganpati walk, the grandeur of this temple is breathtaking, especially with its unique pandal that has a sterling silver dome.
3. Guruji Taalim
Guruji Talim, which was established in 1887 by two families—one Muslim and one Hindu—stands for secularism. It is the oldest mandal celebrating its Platinum Jubilee, having preceded the Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav, which was started by Lokmanya Tilak. During the divide and conquer era, this shrine was vital in displaying unity. It also brings a distinct touch to the celebrations since it is credited with initiating the dhol tasha tradition.
4. Tulsibaug Ganpati
Tulsibaug Ganpati, dating back to the 18th century, was the first to produce a glass fiber statue in 1975. The sight of the 13-foot-tall, over 80-kg murti, covered in silver embellishments, is amazing. Known for creating some of the most remarkable murtis, the temple is situated in the center of the city's hustle and bustle. The people have a particular bond with this temple, which they lovingly refer to as Tulsibaug Cha Ganpati.
5. Kesari Wada Ganpati
Ganesh Utsav began with the installation of Kesari Wada Ganpati by Lokmanya Tilak in 1893. The Kesari Trust currently oversees the temple, which is situated at Tilak House or Kesari Wada. It is the city's fifth-most revered Ganpati. Every year, the temple displays two idols: a permanent one and an additional one brought specifically for the festival that is immersed in water after the festivities.