Pune: The island of Phuket is gearing up for its first Ganeshotsav at Lord Shrimant Ganapati Bappa Devalai — a replica of Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple — bringing India’s devotional fervour, music, and festive celebrations to Thailand.The temple, built in 15 months by Thai entrepreneur Papa Son Mipa, has welcomed a crowd of devotees since opening in Jan this year.This year, the inaugural Ganeshotsav will feature processions, dhol pathak, floral decorations, and rituals closely following Pune’s traditions, promising a vibrant and joyous spectacle for both devotees and curious visitors.“The entire temple will be decorated with flowers. The decoration will be based on the idea of Subhash Sarpale from Pune,” said Chetan Lodha, trustee at the temple.“The ceremonial installation of the idol will take place on Aug 27 at 10am, followed by the abhishek puja at 2pm. At 5.30pm, we will take out a grand procession along Thalan Road in the Old Town area with a dhol pathak flown in from Pune. Devotees will carry Bappa’s chariot decorated with flowers. The local authorities will block the road for four hours to allow the procession to move,” Lodha said.On Aug 28 — Rishi Panchami — amass Atharvashirsha recitation and special abhisheka will be performed by women at 9am.Lodha added, “On Aug 29, the abhishek puja will continue throughout the day, with the main attraction being the performance of Shivmudra Mahakal by the dhol-tasha troupe from Pune between 5pm and 7 pm.”Festivities will continue on Aug 30 with abhishek puja and a grand prasad offering, including chhapan bhog.“On Aug 31, Ganesh visarjan will be held from 5pm to 7pm. The highlight of the visarjan procession will be the famous Hanuman Dhol Pathak of Indore, known for their energetic performances. The temple will remain open for darshan every day during the festival from 6am to 10pm,” Lodha said.With dhol pathak, flowers, rituals, and the energy of devoted crowds, the festival promises a true taste of Ganeshotsav in Phuket.“Thailand has a large number of Ganapati devotees who are excited to celebrate the festival as it is in Pune. Even non-devotees are curious and want to participate in the celebrations. This is not just a celebration of Bappa, but a bridge connecting Pune and Phuket, devotion and culture, India and Thailand. The mood is joyous, festive, and full of energy, bringing everyone together in devotion and happiness,” said Lodha.
