Ganeshotsav 2025: First look of Mumbai's Lalbaugcha Raja out, watch here

The Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal unveiled the first look of this years idol on SundayThe first look of the Lalbaugcha Raja idol was introduced by performing traditional folk dance and song amid the presence of hundreds of devotees who have gathered to get a glimpse of their favourite deityStep into the magic The first glimpse of Lalbaugcha Raja 2025 is here mdash grander more majestic and more divine than ever before Donrsquot miss this breathtaking reveal Credits raje_ashish LalbaugchaRaja2025 DivineRoyalty GanpatiBappaMorya pictwittercomUnAsABEOdtmdash Mid Day mid_day August 24 2025Every year during the grand festival of Ganesh Chaturthi millions of devotees flock to Mumbairsquos famous Lalbaugcha Raja the most iconic Ganesh idol in the city Known as the King of Lalbaug this revered idol is not only a symbol of devotion but also a cultural landmark While almost every Mumbaikar knows about its massive crowds and grandeur there are several fascinating facts about Lalbaugcha Raja that many may not be aware ofGanpati Bappas Grandest Welcome Yet Lalbaugcha Rajarsquos New Elephant Gate Is a Visual FeastVC AshishRane2 LalbaugchaRaja GanpatiBappaMorya GaneshChaturthi MajesticWelcome pictwittercommmaUiSSB7rmdash Mid Day mid_day August 24 2025The first Lalbaugcha Raja idol was installed in 1934 The local fishing community and mill workers who had lost their livelihoods due to the closure of a popular market in Lalbaug vowed to Lord Ganesha for a permanent marketplace When their prayers were answered they started installing Ganesh idols in gratitude Since then Lalbaugcha Raja has been celebrated as the navasacha Ganpati mdash the Ganesha who fulfils wishesDevotees firmly believe that praying to Lalbaugcha Raja with a true heart fulfils wishes Unlike other pandals where devotees line up just for darshan here the lsquonavasachi linersquo is dedicated to those seeking blessings to fulfil their vows while the lsquomukh darshan linersquo is for those who only wish to see the idolThe popularity of Lalbaugcha Raja is unmatched Every year an estimated 20 to 25 lakh devotees visit the pandal during the 10 days of Ganeshotsav People from across India and even overseas make it a point to visit and seek blessingsHeres your complete guide to visit the Lalbaugcha Raja pandalDarshan for devotees will begin from 5 am to 11 pm every day Visitors can enter through two gatesSiddhi Gate Free EntryRiddhi Gate Paid EntryEach devotee is allowed approximately 1015 minutes for darshanAarti and Pooja scheduleDaily rituals includeMorning Pooja 6 amAfternoon Pooja 1 pmEvening Pooja 7 pmThe soulful aartis a highlight of the festivalMorning Aarti 7 amAfternoon Aarti 1 pmEvening Aarti 7 pmEach lasts for around 15 minutes with special ticketed facilities available for devotees wishing to attendTicket DetailsGeneral Darshan Rs 50VIP Darshan Rs 200Special Darshan Rs 500How to reach Lalbaugcha RajaReaching the iconic pandal in LalbaugMumbai is convenient through multiple modesBy Train Chinchpokli Station Central Line 10minute walkCurrey Road Station Central Line 15minute walkLower Parel Station Western Line 2025minute walk or a quick taxi rideFrom CSMT Board a Central Line train and alight at ChinchpokliBy bus Several BEST buses connect to Lalbaug including routes 124 134 66 132 and 172 Expect delays during peak hoursBy taxi A convenient choice but be prepared for traffic congestion near the pandalBy private vehicle Parking is extremely limited advisable to park farther away and walkBy Mumbai Metro Nearest metro access is Lower Parel station from where you can take a short ride or walk to the pandalPro TipUse the Chhatrapati Shivaji GroundTB Kadam Marg route for a smoother darshan experience and to avoid the heaviest crowds