Why Does Lalbaugcha Raja Stop In Front Of Hindustani Masjid Every Year? The Story Behind It

Every year, during the grand Visarjan and procession of Mumbai's most famous Ganpati, Lalbaugcha Raja, there is one pause capture the attention of the entire country. As the Lalbaugcha Raja reaches Byculla, it stops for a few minutes in front of the Hindustani Masjid. From flowers being showered to sweets being distributed, this becomes a memorable moment of an already iconic procession. But why does this happen, and since when did this tradition between the Hindu and Muslim communities begin?

Why Does Lalbaugcha Raja Stop In Front Of Hindustani Masjid Every Year?

The 2-minute stop has become Mumbai's powerful symbol of communal harmony and the beautiful diversity of India. But how did this unique tradition begin?

Since the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal was established in 1934, the Visarjan route from Lalbaug to Girgaon Chowpatty has always passed through the crowded lanes of Byculla. It is believed that this tradition begin in the 1980s when the local Muslim community around Hindustani Masjid started helping the Mandal.

They offered water, made space for the massive Lord Ganesha's idol to pass through the narrow street, and helped manage the crowd. The Mandal, in gratitude, started halting the idol in front of the mosque to acknowledge their support.

This beautiful gesture of gratitude became an annual tradition and also stood the test of time amid the communal tensions.

 

 

 

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A post shared by LalbaugchaRaja (@lalbaugcharaja)

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History of Lalbaugcha Raja Since 1934:

Established in 1934 at Lalbaug Market by the fishermen of the Koli community, the mandal was formed in the era when the freedom struggle was at its peak. Several idols have been sculpted in different forms and themes since 1934, but the devotion of Mumbaikars remained the same. The themes were in co-relation to Hindu mythology, Indian history, and current affairs.

However, in 2000, the iconic face of Lalbaugcha Raja was finalised and patented, and it has remained the same to this day.

 

 

 

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A post shared by LalbaugchaRaja (@lalbaugcharaja)

It is managed by 35 organisers and 1,200+ volunteers. The final procession to immerse the idol at Girgaon Chowpatty spans over 22 hours.

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Conclusion:

This tradition between the Lalbaugcha Raja and Hindustani Masjid is Mumbai in its purest form. It is reported that over 10 to 15 lakh people participate in or line the streets for the grand Lalbaugcha Raja Visarjan procession every year.

(Image Credits: Instagram)
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