Ganeshotsav Declared as Official State Festival by Maharashtra Government
Mumbai, July 10, 2025: In a historic decision, the Maharashtra government has officially declared the public Ganeshotsav, initiated by Lokmanya Tilak in 1893, as the state’s official festival. This move not only honors tradition but also strengthens social unity, discipline, and cultural prosperity, said Adv. Ashish Shelar, Cabinet Minister of Information Technology and Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra.
A Celebration of Culture and Unity
Ganeshotsav, deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s culture, symbolizes devotion, public participation, and social harmony. The festival, which began as a means to foster nationalistic spirit during the freedom struggle, has now been recognized as the “State Festival of Maharashtra.”
Adv. Shelar emphasized that the festival represents Maharashtra’s pride and identity. He stated, “Ganeshotsav is not just a religious event but a movement that unites people across social, linguistic, and cultural barriers.”
Overcoming Legal and Environmental Challenges
The festival has faced legal hurdles in the past, with some groups attempting to restrict public celebrations. However, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, the government swiftly addressed these challenges.
One major issue was the ban on Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols due to environmental concerns. The state government, in collaboration with the Rajiv Gandhi Science Commission and Central Minister Bhupendra Yadav, conducted in-depth studies and successfully lifted restrictions. The court’s final verdict now permits the creation, display, and sale of PoP idols, ensuring the festival’s traditional practices continue.
Government Support for Grand Celebrations
The Maharashtra government has pledged full support for Ganeshotsav celebrations, including:
- Police security for public events
- Infrastructure development for smooth festivities
- Financial assistance for major celebrations in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and across the state
Adv. Shelar urged Ganesh mandals (organizing committees) to incorporate themes highlighting:
- Indian armed forces and soldiers
- Social initiatives like Operation Sindoor
- National development projects
- Tributes to great leaders
गणेशोत्सव – महाराष्ट्र राज्याचा महोत्सव!
— Adv. Ashish Shelar – ॲड. आशिष शेलार (@ShelarAshish) July 10, 2025
महाराष्ट्रात गणेशोत्सव 1893 साली लोकमान्य टिळकांनी सुरू केला, या उत्सवाची पार्श्वभूमी ही सामाजिक, राष्ट्रीय, स्वतंत्रता, स्वाभिमान, स्वभाषा या सगळ्यांशी संबंधित आहे. होता आणि त्या पद्धतीनेच चालू आहे महाराष्ट्राचा गौरव आणि अभिमान असावा… pic.twitter.com/loulv1x8uY
A Festival of Social Awareness and Environmental Responsibility
The government encourages eco-friendly celebrations while maintaining the festival’s grandeur. Shelar added, “This festival should reflect social consciousness and environmental responsibility while being celebrated with enthusiasm.”
With this declaration, Maharashtra reaffirms Ganeshotsav’s status as a unifying force, blending tradition with modernity. The state now gears up for an even grander celebration, marking a new chapter in its cultural legacy.
