Union Minister Mohol Announces All-Women Leadership for Sai Mitra Mandal’s Ganeshotsav in Pune

Kothrud, 26th July 2025: In a significant move to promote women’s leadership in public and cultural spaces, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Muralidhar Mohol, announced that the entire administration of Kothrud’s Sai Mitra Mandal Ganeshotsav will be led by women this year.

The announcement was made during the unveiling of this year’s Ganeshotsav theme—a grand replica of the Kailas Temple at Verul, located in the famous Kailasa Caves of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The ceremonial ‘bhumi pujan’ of the replica was conducted by Maharashtra Minister Chandrakant Patil.

This year marks the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, an icon of progressive leadership and women empowerment. In tribute to her legacy, the Mandal has decided to entrust all responsibilities—from the president to the planning committee—to women.

“Though women have always worked in the background of Ganesh Mandals, they rarely receive an open platform. With this decision, we aim to inspire confidence among women and encourage their active participation in community leadership,” said Minister Mohol.

This initiative will coincide with Sai Mitra Mandal’s 30th Ganeshotsav celebration, and for the first time in its history, women will handle all aspects of planning, decoration, and event management. Male volunteers will serve in supporting roles under the direction of the all-women committee.

Kailas Temple Replica to Take Center Stage
The main attraction at Sai Mitra Mandal this year will be a stunning, artistically crafted replica of the Kailas Temple, one of India’s most iconic rock-cut monuments, carved from a single rock in the Ellora Caves complex. The monument is known worldwide for its architectural brilliance, attracting lakhs of tourists annually.