Pune: Hanuman Club Highlights Krishna Janma Katha in 99th Ganeshotsav Celebration
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Kasba Peth, 4th September 2025: Shri Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan (Hanuman Club), located at 267, Kasba Peth, Manik Chowk, is celebrating its 99th year with devotion, grandeur, and a deep cultural message.
Known not only for its Ganeshotsav festivities but also for year-round contributions in education, healthcare, and community development, the Mandal continues to uphold its legacy of service.
“This Mandal is not limited to just ten days of Ganesh festival. We work 365 days a year for society—whether in education, health, or other causes. This year, our Ganeshotsav theme is based on Shri Krishna Janma Katha (the story of Lord Krishna’s birth). The idea is that today’s young generation is often unaware of our traditional stories and chalchitra (mythological depictions). We wanted to recreate the divine moment when Vasudev carries infant Krishna across the Yamuna amidst heavy rains, bringing the story alive visually for children and devotees,” said Pankaj Shrikant Undale, representing the Mandal.
A distinctive highlight of Shri Hanuman Mandal is its idol, fondly called Surekh Bappa. Considered one of the most graceful idols of Kasba Peth, it carries a 40-year-old legacy. The idol was originally crafted by renowned artist Prakash Gosavi, while in recent years, the painting and finishing have been beautifully handled by Nikhil Raskar of Ranjan Kala Dalan.
This year’s celebration, themed around Lord Krishna’s birth, reflects the Mandal’s ongoing mission of blending devotion with cultural awareness. As it steps into its centenary year, Shri Hanuman Mandal Pratishthan continues to symbolize devotion, service, and heritage for the people of Pune.
