Pune: The iconic Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple was transformed into a breathtaking floral paradise during the annual Mogra Mahotsav, as devotees thronged the temple to witness the deity adorned with over 50 lakh jasmine flowers. Organised by the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Public Ganpati Trust and the Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal, the festival featured vibrant decorations and the spiritual observance of Vasantik Uti Bhajan, performed by the Akhil Bharatiya Warkari Mandal.
The sanctum and main hall were exquisitely decorated with jasmine, lilies, marigolds, hibiscus, roses, and champa (frangipani), turning the temple into a visual and aromatic delight. Devotees captured the divine ambience on their mobile phones as the intricately adorned silver idol of Lord Ganesh radiated serenity and splendour.
Speaking about the scale of the event, Trust President Sunil Rasne shared that the grand floral arrangements were made possible through the dedicated efforts of 140 women and 80 men over the course of two days. This year’s magnificent decoration featured 3,000 bundles of roses, 1,500 bundles of lilies, 1,400 kilograms of marigolds, 1,500 kilograms of chrysanthemums, and 1,000 kilograms of gulchadi. Additionally, 20,000 champa flowers and 100 kilograms of rose petals were used, along with a variety of other blooms such as lotus, jasmine, hibiscus, and more, creating a truly divine and fragrant atmosphere within the temple.
The idol of Lord Ganesh was also ceremonially anointed with Uti—a traditional fragrant powder used during spring festivals.
Notable dignitaries present included Vice President Dr. Ramchandra alias Balasaheb Paranjape, Manik Chavan, Treasurer Mahesh Suryawanshi, Secretary and MLA Hemant Rasne, Joint Secretary Amol Kedari, Festival Head Akshay Godse, and Suvarnayug Mandal President Prakash Chavan, among others.
The Mogra Mahotsav, with its spiritual and aesthetic appeal, continues to uphold Pune’s cultural traditions while offering moments of peace and devotion to thousands of devotees each year.
