August 28, 2025 – In a remarkable display of devotion and unity, approximately 35,000 women congregated at the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir in Pune today to perform a mass chanting of the Atharvashirsha. This event, organized by the temple’s trust, marked the 40th consecutive year of the tradition during the 133rd annual Ganeshotsav festival.
The Atharvashirsha, a revered Sanskrit text dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is believed to bestow mental peace, remove obstacles, and bring blessings to devotees. The mass chanting, conducted on the auspicious occasion of Rishi Panchami, saw women from across the city and neighboring areas gather in large numbers, dressed in traditional attire, to participate in the sacred ritual.
The ceremony commenced in the early hours of the morning with the resonant sound of conch shells and Omkar chanting. Following this, the women recited the Atharvashirsha in unison, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere within the temple premises. The event was coordinated by the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganapati Trust in association with the Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal, reflecting meticulous planning and dedication.
Established in 1893, the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir has long been a center of religious and cultural importance in Pune. Its Ganeshotsav celebrations are renowned for grandeur and devotion, attracting thousands of devotees every year. The annual mass chanting of the Atharvashirsha has become a cherished tradition, symbolizing not only spiritual reverence but also the growing role of women in religious and community activities.
Temple authorities stated that this year’s event was particularly significant, marking four decades of uninterrupted observance. The gathering underscored the message of women’s empowerment and unity, as participants joined hands in a shared spiritual experience.
The Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Trust continues to uphold and foster these cultural and religious traditions, ensuring that the rich heritage of Pune’s Ganeshotsav celebrations thrives across generations. Today’s historic gathering of 35,000 women chanting the Atharvashirsha will be remembered as a milestone in the city’s spiritual and cultural annals.
