Immersed in divinity, Nagpur ready to host Bappa

Nagpur: The city has immersed in festive fervour as Nagpurians prepare to host their favourite deity, Lord Ganesha, on Wednesday. From narrow gallis to sprawling junctions, Ganesh mandals across the city are racing against time to give finishing touches to their pandals before Bappa's arrival. Many idols have already reached mandals and many others are being brought in with pomp, dhol-tasha troupes, and vibrant processions.TOI visited some of the popular mandals revealed how organisers are painstakingly focusing on decorations and immersive experience for the devotees. What stood out was the shift in themes — from mere ornamentation to recreating India's cultural, spiritual, and architectural heritage — from Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar temple to Coimbatore's Adi Yogi statue to the grandeur of Mysore Palace to the spiritual spectacle of the Maha Kumbh.Each pandal is crafted with unique artistry — detailed backdrops, vibrant lighting, and thematic sets. The artistry is matched with devotion, ensuring that it becomes an experience to cherish for every devotee.At Sitabuldi, the famous Modi No. 2 Che Bappa Mandal has gone with blending mythology and temple grandeur. "Our theme is that of Shivlok including idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh, Lord Kartikeya, and others including the Nandi. The pandal also depicts Mahakal, inspired by the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain," said Pushpak Khapekar, one of the organisers.Equally ambitious is the Shri Sarvajanik Bal Ganesh Utsav Mandal which has chosen Coimbatore's iconic Adi Yogi temple as its central inspiration. "This year we have also planned a show to show the Adiyogi temple and for which we have called experts from Delhi. Apart from this, we would also organise Aghori Nritya performance by artists from Haryana on all the 10 days," said a member, adding that the arrangements were executed under the guidance of mandal president Ishwar Dhengle. The popular Mahal Cha Raja Mandal has recreated the grandeur of Mysore Palace. With its ornate arches and royal-themed illumination, the pandal promises to be a major draw for devotees.Similarly, the famous Hill Top Ka Raja has replicated Rajasthan's Karni Mata temple this year.The Bajaj Nagar Cha Bappa Mandal has brought alive the Maha Kumbh Mela. With painted ghats, saffron-clad sadhus, and riverbank replicas, the set offers a slice of the mammoth congregation.But it's not just about idols and sets. Organisers are also focusing on lighting, decorative props, and cultural activities to keep devotees engaged. From dance performances to devotional music, each mandal is curating its own unique atmosphere for the 10-day festival.