Mumbai: Kalachowki Police have registered a case against five individuals for allegedly flying drones without permission during the Mahaganpati Aagman procession in Mumbai's Lalbaug, held on Sunday, August 3. The accused were reportedly using drones to capture visuals of the grand procession, which marked the arrival of the iconic Kalachowki cha Mahaganpati idol to its pandal.
As per the police, three drones were seized from the vicinity of Rejoice Hotel, where they were being operated in violation of a drone ban imposed under official orders for the event. “The five accused claimed they were recording the event, but drone activity was strictly prohibited. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway,” a Mumbai Police official confirmed.
Kalachowki cha Mahaganpati Welcomed With Great Fervour
The Mahaganpati Aagman procession is one of the most awaited events in Lalbaug and Parel, drawing massive crowds and heightened security. This year, the arrival of Kalachowki cha Mahaganpati turned the entire stretch into a vibrant, devotional spectacle. Accompanied by the beats of dhol-tasha, traditional conch shells, and enthusiastic chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya”, the procession saw thousands of devotees dancing, praying and welcoming Bappa with great fervour.
Men, women, and children dressed in traditional attire participated with zeal, while local residents lined the streets to offer aarti and shower flowers on the deity. The idol, crafted in a purely traditional form depicting Lord Ganesh as Lord Shiva, left onlookers spellbound with its intricate detailing and impressive height. It was placed on a specially decorated vehicle adorned with flowers and vibrant lighting, creating a visual treat for the gathered crowd.
While many captured the moment through mobile phones and cameras, some resorted to flying drones for aerial footage, despite clear restrictions. Authorities had earlier announced a temporary ban on drone usage in view of security and crowd management concerns during the festive season.
Ganesh Chaturthi preparations are in full swing across Mumbai, with grand idols being transported from renowned workshops in Parel to public mandals throughout the city. The festival is not only a religious celebration but also a symbol of Mumbai’s cultural and communal harmony.
