Pune: Representatives from various Ganpati mandals in the eastern part of Kasba Peth came together under the banner of "Pune Katta - Shodh Puneri Manacha," organized by MNS General Secretary Adv. Ganesh Satpute, Santosh Patil, Yogesh Khaire, and Rajesh Tonde of Pune Katta.

The event organized at Vaishali Hotel, aimed to shed light on the year-round social contributions of these mandals and address the challenges they face.

Leaders from notable mandals, including Kasbacha Raja Janardan Pawale Sangh, Veer Hanuman Mitra Mandal, Shri Potsulya Maruti Mandal, Shri Jilbya Maruti Mandal, Kadbe Ali Talim, Rashtriya Sattoti Haud Mandal Trust, Seva Mitra Mandal, Akra Maruti Chowki, Akhil Mandai Mandal, and Pune Ganesh Festival, shared detailed reports of their activities and the issues they encounter.

The mandal representatives underscored their commitment to community service, highlighting their continuous efforts throughout the year. From providing aid during the COVID-19 pandemic to responding to the recent flood crisis in Pune, their dedication to social work was evident.

However, despite their positive contributions, the representatives expressed concern over the negative perception that persists about Ganpati mandals in society.

Adv. Ganesh Satpute addressed these concerns, emphasizing the need to change this perception.

He pointed out specific issues such as the outdated infrastructure of Shivaji Road, the exclusion of mandals from immersion processions, challenges posed by metro construction, community complaints about noise from loudspeakers and drums, administrative obstacles, and the impact of road closures in the eastern part of the city.

He stressed the importance of presenting the Ganpati festival as a modern platform for management and social responsibility.

Satpute announced plans to engage with local dignitaries to discuss these challenges and to work on promoting the positive aspects of Ganpati mandals to the wider community.