'Richest' Lord Ganesha idol in Mumbai adorned with 69 kg gold, 336 kg silver. Watch

The Gaud Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) Mandal in Mumbai, renowned as one of the city's wealthiest Ganpati Mandals, has captured headlines with the unveiling of their resplendent Lord Ganesh idol adorned with exquisite gold and silver ornaments, heralding the arrival of the 69th Ganesh Chaturthi festival for the Mandal.

The idol boasts a staggering 69 kg of gold and 336 kg of silver ornaments, a visual spectacle that has left onlookers in awe. Yet, it's not just the ostentatious display of wealth that sets GSB Mandal apart.
For this year's festivities, the Mandal has reinforced its commitment to tradition and security. Raghavendra G Bhat, Vice Chairman of GSB Seva Mandal, shared insights with The Times of India into their preparations. "This year, the mandal has taken an insurance coverage of Rs 360.45 crores," Bhat revealed.

It marks a substantial increase from the previous year's coverage, which stood at Rs 316.40 crores. The insurance package encompasses a wide range of aspects, including a Rs 31.97 crore coverage for the precious gold, silver, and other valuables, with the remainder safeguarding the pandal, its members, and the numerous devotees who will flock to seek Lord Ganesh's blessings.

Bhat also outlined their unique spiritual endeavors, stating, "This year, we will be organizing two significant havans for the nation. We will offer prayers to Vighnaharta for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and for the success of Chandrayaan and ISRO."

In the age of digitalization, the Mandal has adapted seamlessly. "This year, we will also have digital facial recognition for all visitors, and we are the only mandal that will be accepting all donations digitally," Bhat said. Donors will receive e-receipts complete with QR codes.