Belapur: Carrying forward its four-decade-long tradition of promoting unity and communal harmony, the Sai Ekta Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mitra Mandal is celebrating the 44th year of the famous ‘CBD Cha Raja’ Ganesh festival at Sector 2, CBD Belapur, near Artist Village.

This year’s 12-day celebration is based on the theme ‘One God – One Religion’, highlighting the message of peace, brotherhood and social unity. A 12.5-foot idol of Lord Ganesha has been installed in an eco-friendly replica of the Banke Bihari Temple, attracting devotees from across Navi Mumbai.

The idol, depicting Lord Ganesha in a seated ‘Gaja Raja’ posture, has been sculpted by renowned artist Babi Bendekar from Chembur. The 25-foot-high mandap has been created using sustainable materials such as bamboo and cloth.

Members and office-bearers from different communities participate in puja, aarti and havan rituals, making the festival a symbol of religious harmony.

“‘CBD Cha Raja’ has been fulfilling the wishes of devotees for decades. This is why many devotees consider him a wish-fulfilling Lord,” said Ejaz Khan, treasurer of the mandal.

Over the years, devotees have offered ornaments to Lord Ganesha after their wishes were fulfilled. The idol is adorned with a silver mukut, silver Ashish Hasta, silver feet and a golden ring.

As part of the celebrations, the mandal organised a free medical camp on September 20 and 22, followed by a drawing and painting competition for children on September 21 and 22. A Satyanarayan Katha was also conducted on September 23.

Under the guidance of President Balu Gopal Chandani, Secretary Vijay Galande, Treasurer Ejaz Rahamat Khan and Advisor Sabu P. Daniel, the mandal continues its mission of spreading harmony and togetherness.