Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is known across the country for its grandeur and massive public celebrations. While popular mandals like Lalbaugcha Raja and GSB Seva Mandal draw large crowds and media attention, there is another side to the festival that often goes unnoticed. Tucked away in narrow lanes, old neighbourhoods, and residential colonies are hidden Ganpati pandals in Mumbai that celebrate the festival in quieter yet equally meaningful ways.
These lesser-known pandals reflect deep-rooted traditions, strong community bonds, and artistic devotion. They also provide a fantastic opportunity for photographers and culture lovers to explore Mumbai beyond the usual routes.
Also read : Top Ganesh Pandals in Mumbai for Stunning Photos 2025
Below is a detailed list of hidden Ganesh pandals in Mumbai worth exploring this year.
1. Kambli Ganpati, Girgaon – A Tribute by the Idol Makers
The Kambli family is one of the most respected names in Mumbai’s idol-making community. While their creations are seen in major pandals across the city, they also host a private family celebration in their Girgaon residence. This pandal is known for its simplicity, devotion, and beautiful handcrafted idol.
Why visit: The idol is made by the family itself, using traditional clay and old techniques passed down through generations. The setting is peaceful and filled with vintage charm.
Photography tip: Natural window light works best to highlight the idol’s features and the heritage interiors of the home.
2. Sahakar Nagar Ganpati, Chembur – A Cultural Celebration
Sahakar Nagar in Chembur hosts a pandal that stays away from commercial display and focuses on preserving Maharashtrian cultural traditions. The celebration includes bhajans, art competitions, and locally made decorations.
Why visit: The community spirit is strong, and the environment is family-friendly. The pandal’s décor is rooted in tradition, often using flowers, mud lamps, and banana leaves.
Photography tip: Look for early morning rituals and close-up shots of community interactions.
3. Navi Vasahat Ganeshotsav Mandal, Sewri – Coastal Calm and Devotion
This hidden gem near Mumbai’s docklands offers a refreshing change from crowded streets. The idol is modest but well-decorated using natural and sustainable elements such as jute, coconut leaves, and hand-painted backdrops.
Why visit: The celebration is tied to the fishing and dock worker communities, giving it a unique cultural flavor.
Photography tip: Capture the idol at sunrise with coastal light in the background. Consider wide-angle shots that include nearby palm trees or sea-facing frames.
4. Shivsena Nagar Ganpati, Vikhroli – Celebrated with Heart
This residential pandal in Vikhroli East offers an atmosphere of quiet devotion and local involvement. The idol is made from eco-friendly materials and is surrounded by handmade decorations crafted by residents.
Why visit: The celebration includes traditional poojas, devotional music, and a strong sense of community.
Photography tip: Focus on candid moments of families participating in rituals or decorating the area together.
5. Tilak Nagar Cha Raja, Chembur – A Suburban Gem
Often overshadowed by the more famous GSB Ganpati, Tilak Nagar’s pandal is known for its creative decoration themes and enthusiastic local participation. The use of recycled materials and handmade designs gives the pandal a unique identity each year.
Why visit: Themes often reflect current social issues and are brought to life with great attention to detail.
Photography tip: Visit during the evening to capture the lighting setup along with expressive crowd scenes.
6. Shivaji Park Lane Pandals, Dadar – Traditional and Intimate
The main area of Shivaji Park is known for large-scale Ganpati celebrations, but its surrounding lanes are filled with smaller pandals hosted by individual housing societies. These intimate setups showcase Mumbai’s old-world charm and traditional values.
Why visit: Each lane tells a story, and most pandals feature unique decorations, often handcrafted by residents.
Photography tip: Explore the alleys to find frames with hanging lights, floral garlands, and glimpses of idols through window grills.
7. Sion Koliwada Ganesh Utsav – A Celebration by the Sea
The Koli community in Sion Koliwada celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with vibrant decorations that reflect their seafaring lifestyle. The pandals are decorated with fishing nets, miniature boats, and seashells, creating a visually distinct atmosphere.
Why visit: The festival is deeply rooted in local tradition and includes folk performances and Koli-style dance and music.
Photography tip: Capture environmental portraits of devotees in traditional attire with the thematic backdrop.
8. Mazgaon Dock Colony Ganpati – A Maritime Homage
Inside the Mazgaon dockyard colony is a lesser-known Ganpati celebration hosted by dock workers and their families. The idol is set against a backdrop inspired by naval and maritime themes.
Why visit: The setting is rustic, and the decor often includes ship wheels, ropes, and nautical elements.
Photography tip: Look for detail shots of the décor and candid portraits of dock workers during the aarti.
9. Parel Village Ganpati – A Slice of Old Bombay
Amidst the rapidly changing skyline of Mumbai, Parel Village preserves the feeling of old Bombay. The Ganpati celebrations here are quiet, rooted in tradition, and typically take place in shared courtyards of old chawls.
Why visit: The setup is basic yet warm. Families gather around to pray, sing, and share food.
Photography tip: Use natural light and focus on capturing the emotional moments during family prayers.
10. Wadala Cha Raja – Quiet Yet Powerful
Though not as widely recognized as other major pandals, Wadala Cha Raja is known for its socially responsible themes and peaceful celebrations. The idol is traditionally crafted and set in a calm space that allows visitors to pray without disruption.
Why visit: The mandal encourages eco-friendly celebrations and community-led initiatives such as tree planting and awareness campaigns.
Photography tip: Frame the idol with community interaction in the background for a storytelling approach.
How to Discover More Hidden Ganpati Pandals in Mumbai
- Explore early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds and get better access.
- Walk through local housing societies and old colonies where families have been celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi for decades.
- Ask residents for recommendations. Locals are usually happy to guide visitors to their favorite pandals.
- Use online community forums or Instagram to discover underrated spots.
Conclusion
The true beauty of Ganesh Chaturthi lies not just in the grandeur but in the sincerity and devotion found in smaller, hidden corners of the city. These hidden Ganpati pandals in Mumbai offer a more personal and culturally rich experience of the festival. For photographers, culture lovers, and those seeking spiritual peace, they are well worth exploring in 2025.
Ganpati Bappa Morya!
