Ashish Shelar, Minister of Cultural Affairs of Maharashtra, Welcomes Salman Khan & Vidhu Vinod Chopra at Bandra Ganeshotsav

Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is not just a festival—it’s an emotion. And at the heart of Bandra’s celebrations, the Bandra West Public Ganeshotsav Mandal, led by Ashish Shelar, Minister of Cultural Affairs of Maharashtra, has once again become the centre of attraction.

This year, the mandal witnessed a special star-studded darshan with the presence of Bollywood’s finest.

Salman Khan’s Humble Prayers at Bappa’s Feet

Superstar Salman Khan visited the pandal, folding his hands before the idol of Lord Ganesha and joining devotees in the aarti. Wearing a casual checked shirt, Salman blended effortlessly with the crowd, showcasing his deep-rooted faith. His presence electrified the atmosphere as fans cheered loudly for their Bhaijaan.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra Felicitated by Ashish Shelar

Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the creative mind behind cult hits like 3 Idiots and Munna Bhai MBBS, also paid his respects at the mandal. He was personally welcomed and felicitated by Ashish Shelar, adding a cultural significance to the festivities.

Bandra’s Ganeshotsav: Where Faith Meets Film

Under the leadership of Ashish Shelar, the Bandra West Public Ganeshotsav Mandal has become a symbol of devotion and community spirit. It’s not just about grandeur, but also about inclusivity bringing together locals, politicians, and Bollywood stars in the same space of faith.

With chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya filling the air, the mandal once again proved why Mumbai’s Ganeshotsav is a unique blend of spirituality and stardom.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

1. Which celebrities visited Ashish Shelar’s Bandra Ganeshotsav Mandal in 2025? This year, actor Salman Khan and filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra visited the Bandra West Public Ganeshotsav Mandal led by Ashish Shelar.

2. What is Ashish Shelar’s role in Ganeshotsav celebrations? Ashish Shelar, the Minister of Cultural Affairs of Maharashtra, heads the Bandra West Public Ganeshotsav Mandal and ensures the festival blends tradition with community participation.

3. Where is the Bandra West Public Ganeshotsav Mandal located? As the name suggests, it is located in Bandra West, Mumbai, and is one of the most prominent Ganpati mandals in the city.

4. Did Salman Khan participate in the aarti at the mandal? Yes, Salman Khan joined the devotees and Ashish Shelar during the aarti, offering prayers with folded hands before Lord Ganesha.

5. Why is Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s visit significant? His visit highlights the cultural importance of the festival, showing how Bollywood’s creative legends embrace Mumbai’s Ganeshotsav traditions.