Ganeshotsav, also known as Ganesh Utsav, is one of the revered festivals among the Hindus and is mainly observed with great fervour and enthusiasm in Maharashtra. As is known to many of us, every year, Mumbai’s iconic Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati Mandal attracts millions of devotees from all sections of society, who come to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Nestled in the heart of Lalbaug, Lalbaugcha Raja was established by a group of fishermen and traders to show gratitude to Lord Ganesha for giving them a secure workplace in Mumbai. Although to Lord Ganesha, all devotees are equal, the recent videos circulating on social media show a contrasting side of it. The viral videos showcasing the striking difference between celebrities and the ‘aam’ (commoners) devotees during the darshan have sparked controversy. The videos of celebrities being granted special treatment compared to the commoners who wait in line for hours go viral, many are questioning whether Ganpati Bappa’s blessings are becoming exclusive to VIPs.

The Divide in Treatment at Lalbaugcha Raja

Lalbaugcha Raja has been a major attraction during Ganeshotsav for many years, with massive crowds adding to its spiritual significance. But, the emerging pattern of preferential treatment for celebrities has created a divide. Celebrities, politicians and business elites are often seen receiving VIP treatment, passing around the long queues, enjoying quick, direct access to the idol and clicking photographs for a long time in front of Lord Ganesha's idol. In stark contrast to this, ‘aam’ devotees have to wait for long hours in the queue, sometimes for over a day, for their turn to catch a glimpse of the deity. Lalbaugcha Raja Darshan for Ganeshotsav 2024: When and Where to Watch the Live Streaming of Mumbai's Iconic Ganpati Mandal (Watch Video).

The striking contrast highlighted in social media shows videos of how VIP people or influential people are allowed to stand as per their preference in front of the Lord Ganesh idol and click their photographs at their own pace. Meanwhile, the commoners stand in long queues, and when allowed through the open gate, one pushes another to enter in order to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessing - a few get hurt owing to the rush, while others fail to enter and again have to return to the same long line. In some of the videos, it is also seen, that the ‘aam’ devotees, after touching one of the feet of Lord Ganesha, are pushed out of the pandal to allow the next commoner to seek a hurried blessing. In contrast, the other foot of the deity is enjoyed by the elite class for seeking blessings and clicking pictures.

For many years, this preferential treatment has been noticed where frequently celebrities are escorted directly to the front, surrounded by security personnel, while commoners in the background continue their patient wait. This sort of difference in treatment has ignited a debate, with many questioning whether this practice undermines the very essence of devotion and equality that Ganeshotsav represents. Here are some of the posts that proclaim that this preferential treatment should be banned and equal treatment should be given to all.

Common Devotees Being Rushed for Ganpati Darshan

Preferential Treatment Between VIPs and Commoners

Is Ganpati Bappa Only for VIPs?

How Celebrities Are Treated in Lalbaugcha Raja!

Will Lalbaugcha Raja Be Declared Only for VIPs?

Hurried Darshan of Lord Ganesha at Lalbaugcha Raja by Commoners

The Discrimination!

As Ganesh Utsav 2024 continues, the debate over VIP access at Lalbaugcha Raja remains controversial. The contrasting treatment of celebrities and common devotees has led to a wider reflection on the commercialisation and social divides creeping into religious events. Ganesha Chaturthi or Ganesotsav celebrates devotion, faith, and community, a sentiment that many feel should remain accessible to all, irrespective of status.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 13, 2024 11:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).