Maharashtra State Cultural Department Launches Maha Ganeshotsav 2026 Competition for Public Mandals, Applications Open Till September 7

The Maharashtra State Cultural Affairs Department and P. L. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy have invited registered public Ganeshotsav mandals across Pune district to participate in the ‘Maha Ganeshotsav 2026’ competition. The initiative aims to recognise and reward community groups that uphold traditional values, promote social causes, and maintain environment-friendly celebrations during the upcoming festival season.

The state government introduced the competition to encourage public mandals to shift focus towards eco-friendly idols, disciplined processions, and community welfare projects. Civic and district authorities believe that structured incentives help reduce noise pollution and environmental degradation while preserving the cultural heritage of the festival.

Under the framework of the state-wide contest, participating mandals will compete across five distinct tiers, ranging from the taluka level to international recognition. Registered mandals or those holding valid local permissions are eligible to submit their entries online through the official academy portal.

In the top three categories, international, national, and state levels, the first prize carries a cash reward of Rs 7.5 lakh, while the second and third place winners will receive Rs 5 lakh and Rs 2.5 lakh respectively. At the district level, top entries will be awarded Rs 50,000 for first place, Rs 40,000 for second, and Rs 30,000 for third. Winners at the taluka level will each receive Rs 25,000 alongside an official certificate of appreciation.

District officials stated that the evaluation panel will inspect decoration themes, social awareness campaigns, safety compliance, and environmental measures undertaken by the participants. Cultural department representatives added that the online submission portal has been operationalised to ensure a transparent screening process for all applicants.

Interested public Ganeshotsav mandals must complete their registration on the portal https://ganeshotsav.pldmka.co.in/ by September 7, 2026. Submissions for national and international entries are being accepted via direct communication with the department, with local district collectorates coordinating regional queries.