Pune: 21,000 Pani Puri Puris Used to Create This 13-Foot Ganpati on FC Road

Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Shivajinagar, 14th September 2026: As Pune celebrates Ganeshotsav with elaborate decorations and unique artistic installations, a 13-foot-tall Ganpati idol made using 21,000 pani puri puris has become a striking attraction on Fergusson College (FC) Road.

The unusual idol has been put up outside the Ganesh Bhel outlet. It was unveiled by Ganesh Bhel founder Ramesh Gudmewar in the presence of his wife Chhaya Gudmewar, directors Rupesh Gudmewar and Dinesh Gudmewar, and Anushka Gudmewar.

The idol is 13 feet high and 10 feet wide. Preparations for the installation began nearly two months ago, with all the puris used in the structure being prepared at the organisation’s own facility. Artist Prashant Salunkhe brought the concept to life by carefully arranging the puris to create the idol.

According to the organisers, special measures have been taken to ensure that the puris remain intact throughout the 12-day Ganeshotsav period.

This is the fourth consecutive year that Ganesh Bhel has created a Ganpati idol using an unconventional concept. A different theme is chosen each year as part of its Ganeshotsav celebrations.

Focus on reuse and eco-friendly materials

The initiative also carries an environmental message. The organisers said leftover or excess dough that would otherwise have gone to waste was reused to prepare the puris used for the installation.

Bamboo and paper, along with other natural and eco-friendly materials, have been used for the idol’s underlying structure.

“We are encouraged to undertake such initiatives because of the response from citizens. The highlight of this year’s concept is the reuse of leftover dough that would otherwise have been wasted. Bamboo and paper have also been used for the structure. Through reuse and creativity, we want to convey an eco-friendly message,” said Ganesh Bhel director Rupesh Gudmewar.

Dinesh Gudmewar said the concept also has a personal connection with the family’s association with the name Ganesh.

“‘Ganesh’ is not merely the name of our business; it is a relationship that is deeply connected to our lives. Every pani puri puri that we handled was not just a puri for us. In every puri, we gradually began to see Ganesh,” he said.

Ganesh Bhel was started in Pune in 1978 by Ramesh Gudmewar and Chhaya Ramesh Gudmewar from a simple handcart. The business later expanded, with the family continuing the venture across generations.

According to the organisation, Ganesh Bhel currently has more than 35 outlets, while its products are exported to 22 countries.

The 13-foot Ganpati installation will remain on display outside the Fergusson Road outlet until Anant Chaturdashi, allowing devotees to visit it during the 12-day festival.

The unveiling ceremony also featured a performance by the Shivmudra Dhol-Tasha Pathak, adding to the festive atmosphere.