Pune Ganeshustav 2026: Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan’s ‘Punawadi’ Brings Old Pune Back to Life in Kasba Peth
Reported by Radhika Sharma, Rishi sahu & Shoaib Tadvi
Kasba peth, 15th September 2026: As Ganeshotsav celebrations unfold across the city, Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan (Hanuman Club), Kasba Peth, is taking visitors on a journey into Pune’s past with its grand ‘Punawadi’ theme in the mandal’s centenary year.
The elaborate tableau recreates the social and cultural landscape of old Pune, showcasing traditional wadas, historic peths, narrow lanes, a village entrance, chavdi, Mutha river ghats, a temple and a representation of the city’s first girls’ school.
Renowned art director Girish Kolapkar, who has designed the theme, said the concept moves beyond conventional mythological displays and focuses on preserving the city’s architectural, cultural and social heritage.
Spread across approximately 150 feet by 250 feet, the life-size presentation also highlights traditional occupations and communities, including Tamhan, Shimpi and Kumbhar, reflecting the community life that was once an integral part of old Pune.
Pankaj Undale, Working President of Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan, said, “We wanted to show what old Pune was like and how the wada culture and traditional community life were an integral part of the city. Through ‘Punawadi’, we want younger generations to experience this history rather than merely read about it.”
The tableau has been created with the cooperation of residents and establishments in the lane, allowing the existing character of the area to blend with the recreated historical setting.
The mandal has also maintained a traditional approach to Ganeshotsav celebrations, staying away from DJ-based festivities for nearly 10-15 years and continuing with traditional music and immersion procession practices.
The ₹35 lakh tableau has been funded through contributions from the mandal and advertisers instead of vargani collections.
The centenary celebrations also extend beyond the festival. The mandal is undertaking several social initiatives, including paying SSC examination fees for needy students, donating books to educational institutions and libraries, supporting painting and maintenance work, and assisting people undergoing major medical procedures. An ambulance service will also be available for five days during the festival.
Through ‘Punawadi’, Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan has combined Ganeshotsav with a celebration of Pune’s history, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the city’s heritage through a life-size recreation.
