This This is a time of vibrant celebrations across India as devotees welcome Lord Ganesha into their homes and public spaces. It’s not unusual for people to present Ganesha in unique and creative ways, showcasing their devotion while integrating art, tradition, and modern innovation.
One of the most interesting displays this year is undoubtedly the Ganesha Dekhava at the Mala Zar tunnel, near the Maruti Temple in Mala, Panjim. Here, Ganesha is depicted in the form of Lord Krishna, offering a powerful symbolic representation that has captured the attention of the local community. This striking presentation of Ganesha as Krishna includes the iconic serpent Kalia, representing the evils of the world. In this portrayal, Ganesha, like Krishna, removes the poison from the snake, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The vivid imagery has resonated deeply with both locals and visitors, drawing a crowd of all kinds—ranging from influential figures to ordinary devotees who visit the pandal every day to witness this powerful interpretation. Ravish Shetye, a member of the NGO - Yuva, which has curated the Dekhava, explained that since 2014, their group has been creating unique and thought-provoking representations of Ganesha every year. What sets their presentations apart is not just the visual creativity, but also the materials and technology they incorporate.
According to Shetye, they are the only group in Panjim to offer such innovative displays. This year, the Ganesha idol is made from fibre, and the entire presentation includes technological elements that enhance the experience. Using a Raspberry Pi coding unit, the group has managed to simulate environmental effects like thunder, lightning, and rain, as well as movements within the display, adding a dynamic element to the show. The use of technology brings a modern twist to the traditional Ganesh celebration, blending age-old customs with contemporary tools.
The entire project was a community effort, with residents from the surrounding area contributing to its creation. The presentation, which
cost approximately Rs 4 lakh to bring to life, has become a major attraction in Panjim.
In addition to the Ganesha idol, a unique art exhibition is running concurrently in the tunnel below. This exhibition features 109 paintings on the life of Lord Krishna, selected from submissions from artists across the country. The paintings, created by people ranging in age from 7 to 70, highlight the extraordinary artistic talent present in India. This diverse range of artworks further complements the Ganesha-Krishna presentation, creating a holistic celebration
of both religious devotion and artistic expression.
Over the years, the Yuva has crafted their Ganesha idols using various unconventional materials, including chalk and matchsticks, showcasing their ingenuity and creativity. The underlying idea behind these presentations is not just to celebrate the festival but also to highlight the use of technology and artistic talent within the local community.
This year’s Ganesha celebration at Mala is a perfect blend of tradition, creativity, and modern technology. It serves as a reminder that even as festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi evolve, they continue to provide a platform for artistic expression and community involvement, while keeping spiritual significance at the heart of the celebration.