The Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde in Maharashtra, has launched an extensive campaign for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in a bid to connect with voters. In anticipation of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, the party has introduced a ‘Ganpati Decoration Competition.’
During a press conference in Mumbai, the announcement was made by Shiv Sena’s Maharashtra State Coordinator, Naresh Mhaske, and Shiv Sena Spokesperson, Sheetal Mhatre. They emphasized the party’s commitment to Balasaheb Thackeray’s principle of ‘80 percent social cause and 20 percent politics,’ with the competition exclusively open to Mumbai Ganeshotsav mandals.
The competition features three categories for awards: best Ganesha idol, best decoration, and best social work. “The first prize winner in each category will receive Rs 5 Lakh, the second prize winner will receive Rs 3 Lakh, and the third prize stands at Rs 2 Lakh. Additionally, 50 special mandals will be awarded Rs 50,000 each, along with a memento. Various other incentives and prizes are also in the offing,” announced the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Naresh Mhaske highlighted Shiv Sena’s deep-rooted connection with Mumbai and Ganeshotsav, stating, “Ever since the party’s inception, Shiv Sena has shared a strong bond with Mumbai and Ganeshotsav. Balasaheb Thackeray had a close association with some of the city’s renowned mandals and their workers. This is why Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has chosen to carry on this tradition.”
The competition comes with specific rules and regulations: “Public Ganeshotsav mandals that have registered with the Charities Commissioner’s Office by September 16, 2023, are eligible to participate. Registration is mandatory, and entry forms will be available from September 16 to September 21 at Balasaheb Bhawan, Mumbai, and all Shiv Sena branches. Each mandal must display a competition board at their festival venue, with the examiners’ decisions being final and binding,” stated the Eknath Shinde-led party.
The Shiv Sena also announced the provision of 1,500 buses to transport devotees to Konkan and surrounding areas of Mumbai during Ganeshotsav. Ganeshotsav, a 10-day Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is scheduled to be celebrated from September 19 to September 28.