Pune: Hamraj Mitra Mandal in Kothrud Recreates Vaishno Devi Temple for Ganeshotsav 2025
Reported by Sakshi Pandhare & Shoaib Tadvi
Kothrud, 2nd September 2025: Adding a spiritual touch to this year’s Ganeshotsav, Hamraj Mitra Mandal, Kothrud, has recreated the iconic Gufetil Vaishno Devi Temple as its pandal theme. The original temple, perched at a great height in Jammu and Kashmir, is challenging for many devotees to visit. Through this artistic endeavor, the Mandal has brought the sanctity of the shrine closer to Pune.
A Mandal member said, “The temple is situated at a height and not accessible to everyone. That’s why we decided to create this theme. Every devotee can now see how beautifully the Vaishno Devi Temple is replicated. Under the guidance of Mandal Chief Gajanan Maharaj Mane and Majhi Nagarsevak Shobhavati Gajanan Mane, we aimed to make this experience accessible to all. Last year, we recreated the Swami Samarth Temple, which was a huge success. Encouraged by that, we wanted to present something equally unique this year.”
The initiative, led by Mandal Chief Gajanan Maharaj Mane and Majhi Nagarsevak Shobhavati Gajanan Mane, emphasizes devotion and inclusivity, allowing those unable to undertake the pilgrimage to still experience the spiritual essence of the shrine.
Building on last year’s overwhelming response to the Swami Samarth Temple theme, the Mandal team is confident that the Gufetil Vaishno Devi Temple replica will attract large crowds throughout the festival. Residents have lauded the Mandal for blending artistry with devotion and for making distant sacred sites accessible to the local community.
