Anant Ambani’s Grand Gesture for Lalbaugcha Raja

In a spectacular offering for the 2024 Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Anant Ambani of the Reliance Foundation has donated a 20-kg gold crown worth ₹15 crore to the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai. This generous donation has added a regal touch to the revered Ganesh idol, which attracts millions of devotees each year. The first look of Lalbaugcha Raja for this year’s Ganeshotsav was unveiled on September 5, revealing the idol adorned in a maroon outfit and intricately designed jewelry, with the gold crown serving as the highlight of the display.

A Crown of Devotion

The lavish crown, which took two months to craft, symbolizes Ambani’s deep connection with Lalbaugcha Raja, one of the most popular and visited Ganesh idols in India. Sudhir Salvi, Honorary Secretary of the Raja of Lalbaug, shared that Anant Ambani has been actively involved with the Ganesh mandal for the past 15 years, providing support through the Reliance Foundation for various activities, including health-related initiatives.

Ambani’s commitment to the Lalbaugcha Raja is not new. He has regularly attended the festival’s key events, including the grand immersion ceremony at Girgaon Chowpatty. His philanthropic efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included donating 24 dialysis machines to aid patients, further solidified his longstanding relationship with the committee. This year, in recognition of his unwavering support, Ambani was granted honorary membership of the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal.

Ganeshotsav 2024: Extended Celebrations

The Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations for Lalbaugcha Raja began on September 7, 2024, and will continue until September 17. Devotees can visit the idol for darshan from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Special poojas and aartis are held throughout the day, attracting people from all walks of life. With elaborate rituals and a sense of devotion, the ten-day festival culminates in the grand visarjan, where the idol is immersed in the waters amidst vibrant chants and music.

Darshan and Aarti Timings for Lalbaugcha Raja 2024:

Darshan: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Morning Pooja: 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM

Afternoon Pooja: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Evening Pooja: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM – 7:15 AM

Afternoon Aarti: 1:00 PM – 1:15 PM

Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 7:15 PM

A Legacy of Philanthropy and Devotion

Anant Ambani's involvement in the festival extends beyond this year’s crown donation. His family, through the Reliance Foundation, has supported various charitable activities organized by the Lalbaugcha Raja committee over the years, ensuring that the festival not only remains a cultural landmark but also serves the community in meaningful ways.

This year’s gold crown stands as a testament to the enduring bond between Anant Ambani and the Lalbaugcha Raja, adding both splendor and significance to one of Mumbai’s most beloved festivals.