Planning to see the most famous Ganpati in Pune this 2025 Ganeshotsav?
Pune’s Ganpati celebrations are steeped in tradition, older than Mumbai’s and deeply rooted in the city’s cultural pride. While Mumbai dazzles with grandeur, Pune holds on to rituals, history, and its own brand of festive spirit.
This is where the concept of sarvajanik (public) Ganeshotsav began, right here in Pune. And leading the charge are the legendary Manache 5 Ganpati: the five most respected mandals that every Punekar swears by.
Beyond them, dozens of other pandals showcase stunning decor, creative themes, and cultural events. Whether you’re after blessings, photography, or that unbeatable festive buzz, here’s your essential guide to Ganpati in Pune in 2025.
What Does Manache Ganpati Mean?
The term Manache Ganpati refers to the five most respected Ganesh mandals in Pune. These aren’t just popular, they hold historical, cultural, and even royal significance. Backed by legacy, these pandals were closely associated with influential families, freedom fighters, and community leaders in Pune’s past.
What sets them apart is the honour of leading the Ganesh Visarjan (immersion) procession, a privilege that reflects their status in Pune’s Ganeshotsav tradition.
While these five Ganpati pandals in Pune are a must-visit for their legacy, the city is also dotted with dozens of other famous pandals known for their creative themes, towering Ganpati murtis, and vibrant energy.
If you’re planning to go pandal hopping, this guide brings you the best of both: the iconic and the spectacular.
👑 1. Kasba Ganpati (Manacha Pahila Ganpati)
⭐ First Manache Ganpati / Kasba Peth, Pune
💬 Pune’s oldest and most revered Ganpati with roots tracing back to Shivaji and Jijabai.
The Kasba Ganpati is the pride of Pune and the first Manacha Ganpati, enjoying the honour of leading the immersion procession every year. But this Ganesh mandal’s legacy runs far deeper, all the way back to 1630 AD, when Jijabai and young Shivaji came to Pune after the devastation by Adilshah’s troops.
As legend goes, an idol of Lord Ganesha was discovered near their residence. Jijabai saw it as a divine sign and commissioned a temple, the Kasba Ganpati Mandir, laying spiritual roots for the city. Vinayak Bhat Thakar, the temple caretaker, kept worship alive in secrecy during turbulent times.
The sarvajanik avatar came in 1893, thanks to Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who turned Ganeshotsav into a public movement to fight British censorship. He declared Kasba Ganpati as Pune’s Gram Daivat, awarding it the first place in the visarjan procession, a privilege it holds to this day.
Since 1926, the Ganpati has been celebrated in a public mandap to welcome devotees from across the city.
Why Visit:
- Serene, historic setting in Kasba Peth
- Oldest Ganpati idol in Pune (installed in 1639)
- Rich ties to Shivaji Maharaj and Jijabai
- Declared “Manacha Pahila Ganpati” by Bal Gangadhar Tilak
- Leads the visarjan procession
🛕 2. Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati (Manacha Dusra Ganpati)
⭐ Manacha Dusra Ganpati / Budhwar Peth, Pune
💬 Pune’s second-most revered Ganesh idol, blessed by the city’s Gram Devata.
Tambdi Jogeshwari is considered Pune’s Gram Devata (guardian deity), while Kasba Ganpati holds the title of Gram Daivat. This idol was given the honour of Manacha Dusra Ganpati, the second in prestige by Lokmanya Tilak himself during the first public Ganeshotsav in 1893.
The temple housing this idol dates back to 1545 CE, making it one of the oldest shrines in Pune. It was revived by Jijabai, Shivaji Maharaj’s mother, after she settled in the city. Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati holds a sacred legacy, deeply intertwined with Pune’s spiritual and cultural identity.
During the visarjan (immersion) procession, women take centre stage, performing traditional martial arts, swordplay, and horseback stunts upholding a rare and empowering tradition that sets this mandal apart.
Why Visit:
- Strong cultural links to Jijabai and Shivaji Maharaj’s era
- One of Pune’s oldest active temples, dating back to the 16th century
- Recognised as Gram Devata of Pune
- Granted “Manacha Dusra” status by Lokmanya Tilak
- Traditional swordplay and horseback acts by women during immersion
🌟 3. Guruji Talim Ganpati (Manacha Teesra Ganpati)
⭐ 3rd Manache Ganpati / Budhwar Peth, Pune
💬 A symbol of unity and tradition in the heart of Pune.
Holding the third spot as one of the most revered Ganesh murtis in Pune, Guruji Talim Ganpati has a unique place in the city’s festive history. Located on bustling Laxmi Road, this pandal was established in 1887 by Nanasaheb Bhrivile, Bhiku Shinde, and Sheikh Kasam Vallad, a rare and beautiful example of Hindu-Muslim harmony during that era.
Unlike most pandals, Guruji Talim Ganpati doesn’t rely on public donations. Since 1987, the core committee has self-funded all festival celebrations, keeping the tradition going with dignity and pride. The murti itself is small and made from eco-friendly shadu clay, reflecting simplicity, sustainability, and deep devotion. Those interested in shadu mati Ganpati idols can certainly add this pandal to the list.
Why Visit:
- Among the oldest Ganesh mandals in Pune
- Rich legacy of communal harmony
- Intimate celebrations without fanfare
- Eco-friendly clay idol
- Right on Laxmi Road, easy to add to your pandal-hopping route
🌸 4. Tulsibaug Ganesh Mandal (Manacha Chautha Ganpati)
⭐ Manacha Chautha Ganpati / Budhwar Peth, Pune
💬 A vibrant pandal where artistry meets old-city hustle.
Tulsibaug Ganesh Mandal holds the fourth place among the Manache Ganpati and has been a central figure in Pune’s Ganeshotsav since 1901. Located in the buzzing Tulsibaug market, just a few kilometres from Swargate Station, the pandal is a magnet for crowds drawn to its scale, energy, and elaborate decoration themes.
This pandal is particularly known for its intricate set designs from mythological to contemporary which change every year and attract visitors from all parts of the city. Alongside its visual appeal, the mandal is also active in promoting social awareness campaigns, charity drives, and health camps.
Why Visit:
- Close to heritage spots and shopping streets like Laxmi Road and Tulsi Baug
- One of the busiest and most popular Ganesh mandals in the heart of old Pune
- Eye-catching decorations and massive crowds, especially in the evenings
- Rich tradition combined with progressive messaging
- Great spot for photography and capturing the street mood
🏞️ 5. Kesariwada Ganesh Mandal (Manacha Panchva Ganpati)
⭐ Manacha Panchva Ganpati / Narayan Peth, Pune
💬 Where Lokmanya Tilak’s legacy and devotion come together.
Kesariwada Ganpati holds the fifth place of honour among the Manache Ganpati in Pune and is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Originally installed by Tilak in 1893 to promote unity through Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, the idol was later shifted to Kesariwada, the ancestral home of the Kesari newspaper and Tilak himself.
This mandal stands out for its consistent focus on social causes and community awareness. The ambience here has a quieter, more reverent feel compared to the louder pandals in the city. Visitors can also tour the historic Kesariwada premises and view Tilak’s memorabilia and printing press.
Why Visit:
- Ideal for those interested in history and cultural legacy
- Historic pandal started by Lokmanya Tilak
- Explore Kesariwada and its museum-like interiors
- Focus on simplicity, tradition, and meaningful themes
- Deeply rooted in Pune’s socio-political heritage
🍯 6. Shreemant Dagdusheth Ganpati
⭐ Among Pune’s most iconic / Sadashiv Peth, Pune
💬 A grand, gold-adorned idol that draws millions each year
One of the most celebrated Ganesh murtis in Pune, this mandal began as a personal offering by Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife Lakshmibai after they lost their only son to the plague. Over time, their act of devotion evolved into a city-wide celebration.
While it’s not part of the official Manache Ganpati list, Shreemant Dagdusheth commands immense reverence and the scale of the decorations, the crowds, and the rituals make it feel no less than a royal darbar.
Why Visit:
- The gold-covered idol is a visual spectacle
- Iconic location in the heart of the old city
- Known for celebrity visits and VIP darshan queues
- Stunning lighting and decor themes that change yearly
- Rich backstory rooted in personal loss and community love
🔍 Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple pandals, take a look at my tips on pandal hopping in Mumbai they work beautifully in Pune too.
⭐ Revered Mandal / Budhwar Peth, Pune
💬 “Temple-style décor and freedom fighter legacy come together at this vibrant pandal.”
Named after freedom fighter Babu Genu, this mandal is officially called the Hutatma Babu Genu Ganesh Mandal. It’s one of the famous Ganpati pandals in Pune, especially known for its temple-style decorations and patriotic roots.
Born into a farming family, Babu Genu later became a mill worker in Bombay and actively opposed British trade practices. This pandal honours his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and celebrates his legacy with grand, detailed sets inspired by iconic Indian temples.
Why Visit:
- Intricate set designs resembling temples from across India
- Strong patriotic theme and historical significance
- Located in the heart of Ganesh Peth
- Unique combination of devotion and nationalism
- Loved by locals for its festive vibe and visual flair
Feeling patriotic while you’re in Pune? Visit the Southern Command Museum, just 20 minutes away from Budhwar Peth. This is an amazing Indian Army museum where you walk past real battle tanks, learn more about army uniforms, regiment flags, ammunition and know stories of real war heroes.
🪔8. Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati
⭐ Historic Mandal / Budhwar Peth, Pune
💬 “Revolutionary spirit meets Ganesh devotion at Pune’s first public Ganpati.”
Established in 1892, this was the first public Ganpati pandal in Pune, launched before Tilak’s festival movement fully took shape. Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari, a freedom fighter and social reformer, installed the idol to inspire collective action during India’s independence movement.
Today, the pandal continues to honour that legacy. Each year, it uses the Ganesh festival to spotlight revolutionary ideas and contemporary social issues making it not just devotional, but also deeply purposeful.
Why Visit:
- A must-visit for history lovers and conscious travellers
- Pune’s first public Ganesh pandal
- Founded by a freedom fighter
- Themes reflect social change and patriotism
- Striking idol with symbolic messages
🏵️9. Natu Baug Ganpati
⭐ Famous for Stunning Light Displays / Shukrawar Peth, Pune
💬 A traditional murti meets modern spectacle this one’s a visual treat for every pandal hopper.
If you’re pandal hopping for the most unique Ganpati in Pune, Natu Baug Ganpati is your offbeat gem. Nestled in the heart of the city near Swargate, this famous Ganpati pandal in Pune doesn’t rely on size or scale, instead, it dazzles with immersive light displays and technical brilliance.
The Ganesh murti here is relatively small and traditional, but what sets it apart is the spectacle that surrounds it, think coordinated lighting, layered visual effects, and a vibe that’s both spiritual and cinematic. If you’re into visual storytelling and want to experience Ganesh pandal decoration in Pune at its most creative, this one’s a must.
Why Visit:
- Famous for dazzling and immersive lighting displays
- Smaller murti with a deep traditional touch
- Different vibe compared to heritage pandals
- Great for evening visits and night photography
- Close to major Pune junctions like Swargate
💣10. Chhatrapati Rajaram Ganesh Mandal
⭐ Crowd-Puller with Thematic Sets / Sadashiv Peth Road, Pune
💬 The mandal that’s currently breaking the internet, modern themes, royal aura, and endless buzz.
Among the trending Ganpati pandals in Pune, Chhatrapati Rajaram Mandal in Sahakar Nagar has been drawing huge crowds and even bigger curiosity online. This isn’t one of the Manache Ganpatis, nor one of the oldest, but it’s become a sensation in recent years thanks to its large-scale thematic sets and social media presence.
Inspired by royal Maratha aesthetics and often blending in current social or mythological themes, this mandal is where tradition meets drama. In 2024, the mandal came up with a stunning replica of Amritsar’s Durgiana Temple that made news all over Maharashtra. If you’re wondering which Ganesh pandal in Pune is currently buzzing on Google, this is the one.
Why Visit:
- Trending Ganpati pandal in Pune with soaring popularity
- Massive thematic decorations and creative storytelling
- Known for drawing large crowds and media attention
- Ideal for photos and reels during evening visits
- Located on Sadashiv Peth Road, easily accessible from city center
Final Thoughts on Ganpatis in Pune
The Ganpati pandals in Pune are more than just places of worship, they’re vibrant hubs of culture, creativity, and community. From the historic reverence of Manache Ganpati like Kasba Ganpati to the dazzling light displays of Natu Baug Ganpati, each pandal tells its own story.
These mandals go beyond tradition, using art, innovation, and social themes to connect with people from all walks of life. Year after year, they reflect Pune’s deep-rooted heritage while also evolving with the times, fostering unity, devotion, and festive joy across the city.
FAQs about Ganpati Pandals in Pune
The five Manache Ganpati in Pune are Kasba Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, Tulshibaug Ganpati, and Kesariwada Ganpati. These are considered the most respected and traditional Ganpati mandals in the city.
Some of the must-visit Ganpati pandals in Pune include Kasba Ganpati, Dagdusheth Halwai, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Natu Baug Ganpati, and Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati. Each offers a unique blend of tradition, decoration, and cultural significance.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati and Kasba Ganpati are the most famous. Others like Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, and Tulshibaug also draw large crowds every year.
The best Ganpati pandals to visit in Pune this year include traditional ones like the Manache Ganpati and visually striking ones like Natu Baug Ganpati and the newly popular Chhatrapati Rajaram Mandal.
Here’s a quick list: Kasba Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, Tulshibaug Ganpati, Kesariwada Ganpati, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati, Babu Genu Navsacha Ganpati, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati, Natu Baug Ganpati and Chhatrapati Rajaram Mandal Ganpati.
Babu Genu Ganpati is widely considered the Navsacha Ganpati, meaning “the Ganpati who fulfills wishes.”
Unlike traditional pandals, Natu Baug is known for its incredible light displays and immersive visual experience, making it a crowd favourite.
Yes. While the five Manache Ganpati are traditional must-visits, you can add Dagdusheth, Babu Genu, Rangari, Natu Baug, and Chhatrapati Rajaram Mandal to make your top 10.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati is arguably the biggest in terms of popularity, donations, and crowd size.
Yes! Chhatrapati Rajaram Mandal is trending this year and has become a must-visit for its innovative themes and rising popularity.
5 comments
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Beautiful, all Sharukh! Reminds me of Mardi Gras but in a more respectful, less frivolous way. What magnificent creations.
I guess Mardi Gras is quite different from this, but yes in some way its similar because people are on the streets for celebrations.
I love how these destinations are steeped in history and the way you bring that history to our attention.
Glad that you enjoy the history I integrate with my travel content, Dan. Thank you for visiting and commenting. 🙂