Ganesh Mandals Must Ensure Purity of ‘Prasad’; Strictly Follow FDA Norms, Directs CM Devendra Fadnavis

Chief Minister issues orders to keep administrative machinery on high alert ahead of Ganeshotsav

Mumbai: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged Ganesh Mandals to strictly adhere to Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) guidelines to ensure that Ganeshotsav recognized as Maharashtra’s official state festival is celebrated in an enthusiastic, disciplined, safe, and adulteration-free environment, with particular emphasis on maintaining the purity and safety of prasad distributed to devotees.

The Chief Minister issued these directives during a high-level review meeting on law and order convened at the Sahyadri Guest House ahead of Ganeshotsav 2026.

Highlighting that Ganesh Mandals distribute prasad on a massive scale during the festival, CM Fadnavis emphasized that ensuring pure and safe prasad for devotees is a crucial responsibility of the organizers. He stated that Mandals should strictly abide by FDA rules and seek necessary guidance and training to maintain the purity and sanctity of the offerings. He added that while preserving the grandeur and tradition of the festival, equal priority must be given to discipline and public safety.

The Chief Minister directed the police and municipal administration to resolve operational hurdles faced by Ganesh Mandals without delay. He instructed authorities to issue timely permissions for long-established Mandals, ensure arrival and immersion routes are completely pothole-free, and guarantee adequate street lighting along these paths. Strict police action was also mandated against those violating fireworks and loudspeaker regulations.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced that the Municipal Commissioner has approved a proposal under Section 143 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act to grant property tax exemptions for offices registered under public trusts.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also reviewed festival preparations, stating that around 1,850 kilometers of roads in Mumbai have been concretized. He directed municipal authorities to ensure zero potholes along procession routes. He added that the process to grant five-year single-window permissions to Ganesh Mandals has been successfully implemented.

Deputy CM Shinde urged office-bearers to stay vigilant against rumors on social media and immediately report suspicious activities. He advised Mandals carrying large idols to thoroughly inspect structural fixings, nuts, bolts, and welding before transport, while ensuring children and devotees maintain a safe distance during movement.