Pune: In a unique and socially responsible initiative, the Navkiran Tarun Mandal from Bhavani Peth, Pune, has organized a ten-day Kirtan Mahotsav during this year's Ganesh festival.

This decision was made to avoid spending money on extravagant decorations, loud music, and other unnecessary displays. Instead, the mandal focused on fostering spiritual growth, especially among the younger generation.

Kirtankars from across the state, including women and children, have been invited to participate in the event, which has drawn significant attention and appreciation from the public.

The mandal, located near Ramoshi Gate in Bhavani Peth, is celebrating its 108th year. Traditionally, the mandal would organize live and moving displays during the Ganesh festival.

However, starting last year, the committee decided to change the format, emphasizing spiritual and social values. As part of this new approach, they introduced a week-long Harinam program and the Kirtan Mahotsav.

This year, the event is seeing participation from a wide age group, ranging from 5 to 70 years old. The mandal has also taken the responsibility to serve Mahaprasad (community meal) to about 10,000 devotees every day during the festival.

The initiative is led by Sunny Kadam (President), Omkar Kamble (Secretary), Shubham Jagdale (Vice President), Abhijit Ghone (Treasurer), and Shubham Vallakatty.

Under their leadership, the ten-day festival features events such as Kakad Bhajan, Aarti, Dnyaneshwari recitation, Gatha Bhajan, and Haripath based on the life and teachings of Sant Tukaram Maharaj.

Renowned kirtankars such as Mukund Maharaj More, a 10th-generation descendant of Sant Tukaram, Chaitanya Maharaj Raut, Mauli Maharaj Pathade, and several others are performing daily, delivering devotional songs and spiritual discourses.

The initiative aims to promote social reform and upliftment, using the spiritual teachings of saints as a foundation for bettering society.