The Maharashtra government’s tourism department is hosting its first-ever International Ganesh Festival this week. This event will highlight Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage by celebrating Ganesh festival, one of the state’s most beloved festivals.
Scheduled from September 18 to 28, the international festival aligns with Ganesh Chaturthi. It spans four cities in Maharashtra: Mumbai, Pune, Palghar, and Ratnagiri, each promising a distinct and unforgettable experience for tourists engaged in the program.
The purpose of this project is to promote and highlight Maharashtra’s abundant cultural heritage by featuring the International Ganesh Festival as the primary attraction to draw global interest. Dr. B.N. Patil, Director of Tourism in Maharashtra, stated in conversations with certain sources, “We are using the International Ganesh Festival as a central focal point with the aim of capturing global attention. Through a well-organized approach, our goal is to boost tourism and foster a deeper appreciation for our traditions among both local and international visitors.”
He further emphasized, “We envision enlarging the festival’s scope by introducing additional interactive events, workshops, and performances that demonstrate the diversity of Maharashtra. Moreover, we are committed to enhancing our partnerships with international collaborators, with the goal of establishing the International Ganesh Festival as a highly desirable annual fixture on the global cultural calendar.”
To date, the department has enrolled more than 500 participants in this program, including international tourists. Specifically, there are 120 tourists, along with approximately 160 expatriates and consular representatives from Thailand. On the domestic front, there are 50 individuals from the travel trade sector and about 100 influencers actively involved in the initiative.
The tourism department has tailored unique tours for tourists in each of the four cities. In Mumbai, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the renowned Siddhivinayak temple and the intricate decorations of Ganesh Galli. Pune offers tourists a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the city and visit the iconic Shaniwar Wada fort palace. Meanwhile, in Palghar and Ratnagiri, participants will engage in cultural workshops, including learning the art of Warli, and embark on city explorations to soak in the local culture.
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