The first day of Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 saw a massive outpouring of devotion and generosity at the famed Lalbaugcha Raja Ganeshotsav in Mumbai. The Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal reported receiving a staggering ₹48.30 lakh in donations on Sunday, September 8th. Mangesh Dattaram Dalvi, the treasurer of the Mandal, confirmed the figure, highlighting the immense public support for the festival.
The news agency ANI shared a captivating video showcasing the meticulous process of counting the donations. Volunteers diligently sorted through garlands adorned with currency notes, meticulously separating them and organizing them into bundles. Dedicated counting stations, equipped with modern note-counting machines, ensured swift and accurate processing. The video also revealed a fascinating aspect of the donations – a significant portion came in foreign currencies, including US dollars, Singaporean dollars, and Australian dollars, reflecting the global reach of this revered festival.
The video concluded by highlighting the use of a computerized system to digitally record the donations, ensuring transparency and accurate accounting.
Adding to the festive spirit, Bollywood celebrities graced the Lalbaugcha Raja Ganeshotsav with their presence on Saturday, September 7th. Shah Rukh Khan, Kartik Aaryan, Vicky Kaushal, Varun Dhawan, Neil Nitin Mukesh, and Boman Irani were among the prominent figures who paid their respects to the revered deity. The presence of these stars further underscored the cultural significance of the festival and its enduring appeal.