DT
PT
Subscribe To Print Edition About The Tribune Code Of Ethics Download App Advertise with us Classifieds
search-icon-img
search-icon-img
Advertisement

Remembering the warmth of Bappa’s welcome in Pune

Tribuneindia.com invites contributions to SHAHARNAMA. Share anecdotes, unforgettable incidents, impressionable moments that define your cities, neighbourhoods, what the city stands for, what makes its people who they are. Send your contributions in English, not exceeding 150 words, to shaharnama@tribunemail.com Do include your social media handles (X/ Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
  • fb
  • twitter
  • whatsapp
  • whatsapp
featured-img featured-img
Illustration: Sandeep Joshi
Advertisement

I owe my life’s two milestones to Pune. Studying for MBA in ‘Oxford of the East’, my growth was nurtured by its rich and cultural legacy. Hostel learnings and precious friendships remain Pune’s cherished gifts. Later, at a famed ‘marriage hall’ (an extinct species today), the city also gave me my life partner.

Advertisement

There are many other fond memories of Pune. The one which is closest to my heart is Ganapati festival celebrations. Those ten days of festivities magically transformed neighborhoods into vibrant spaces, welcoming the Vighnaharta (destroyer of obstacles). Chants of Ganapati Bappa Morya filled the air. Visits to ‘pandals’ meant long queues, but once in front of the deity, it was an experience truly divine. Pleasant demeanour of the idol, clad in colourful attire; beautiful decorations, fragrance of incense and sandalwood, aroma of ‘modaks’, devotional songs, and performances by celebrated artists remain unforgettable. Festivities at homes of friends added to the fervor of the festival.

On the tenth day, teary eyes bid farewell, not before extracting a promise ‘pudhchya varshi lavkar yaa (come soon next year), which the God of new beginnings graciously fulfills.

Advertisement

Though a Bengaluru resident now, I wish to relive this Pune memory and loudly cheer “Bappa Morya Re” again.

Dr Bharti Godbole, Bengaluru

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
tlbr_img1 Classifieds tlbr_img2 Videos tlbr_img3 Premium tlbr_img4 E-Paper tlbr_img5 Shorts