Pune: Eco-Friendly Ganesh Festival Brings History, Heritage, and Devotion Alive at PMRDA

Akurdi, 29th August 2025: The Ganesh festival at the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) headquarters in Akurdi this year is not just about rituals and celebration, it is a thoughtful blend of sustainability, culture, and history.

At the heart of the celebration stands an eco-friendly Ganesh idol, adorned with natural flower decorations, setting an example of how tradition can harmonize with environmental responsibility. The initiative reflects PMRDA’s ongoing commitment to promoting green practices even during festivals.

The festive atmosphere came alive as students from Jnana Prabodhini performed the traditional Barchi folk dance, accompanied by a spirited dhol–tasha performance. Their energetic presentation filled the premises with rhythm and color, giving employees and visitors a taste of Maharashtra’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Step Into the Shivaji Era
Adding a historic dimension, PMRDA hosted a special one-day exhibition on Thursday that transported visitors back to the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Organized by the Tulja Bhavani Mardani Khel Training and Cultural Service Institute, the exhibition showcased Shivaji-era weapons, armor, and warfare techniques.

Guided by Ravindra Jagdale from the institute, officials and staff gained insights into the martial skills and valor that defined the Maratha legacy. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase personally toured the exhibition, praising the initiative and stressing the importance of preserving such cultural narratives.

Spotlight on UNESCO World Heritage Forts:
The celebrations also highlighted Maharashtra’s architectural treasures. Informative panels showcased 12 forts recently recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites — 11 of them located in Maharashtra. The display not only educated visitors about the forts’ global importance but also sparked pride in the region’s historic landmarks.

The spiritual highlight came as Dr. Yogesh Mhase led the traditional Ganesh aarti, joined by senior officials including Joint Commissioner (Administration) Poonam Mehta, Director of Development and Planning Avinash Patil, Chief Engineer Rinaz Pathan, Chief Financial Controller Padmashri Taldekar, and Chief Fire Officer Devendra Potphode. Officers and staff together created a scene of devotion, unity, and cultural pride.