Pune: Shri Krishna Mandal Showcases Andharban Forest Theme in its 86th Year

Reported by Sakshi Pandhare & Shoaib Tadvi
Deccan,2nd September 2025: One of Pune’s oldest Ganesh Mandals, the Shri Krishna Mandal at Deccan Corner, has entered its 86th year with a unique theme—recreating the natural beauty of the Andharban forest. Established in 1939, the Mandal is known for its blend of tradition, creativity, and social initiatives, and this year’s decoration has once again drawn the admiration of devotees.

The theme features a mixture of real and artificial elements—with lifelike animal figures, sound effects, and projection mapping combined with real plants to give devotees an immersive experience of being inside a dense forest.

Jugal Chandan, a member of the Mandal, explained, “This year we have presented the Andharban forest. It is a mixture of real and not real animals, as well as artificial and real plants. The theme has been made to make people understand the importance of environment and forests in our lives. We have also focused on sound effects and projections to give a realistic feeling. Our trust works on many activities—during Mahashivratri we distribute Prasad for two days, we organize Dahi Handi, we donate to orphanages, and we serve milk during the Palkhi. Our Ganpati idol is also unique, just like the famous ‘Mumbai cha Raja’ of Ganesh Galli. In fact, the artisan who made that idol has only crafted two such murtis, and both belong to our Mandal. The idol we worship is 45 years old, and you cannot see this type of idol anywhere else in Pune. This is the history of our Mandal, and we are continuing this legacy.”

The Mandal’s long-standing idol is considered its pride, standing apart in design and structure from most other Ganpati idols in Pune. Along with its creative decorations, the Mandal’s charitable and cultural initiatives—such as donations to orphanages, food distribution, and community services—have earned it a respected place among Pune’s Ganesh Mandals.

This year’s Andharban jungle theme not only adds visual beauty but also carries a strong message on the need to preserve the environment and recognize the importance of forests in human life. With its history, artistry, and devotion, Shri Krishna Mandal continues to remain a cherished part of Pune’s Ganeshotsav tradition.