In recent years, live tableaux have become a popular feature of Ganeshotsav celebrations, providing a unique platform for emerging artists.
This year, the trend is expected to continue, with a strong demand for live displays featuring historical, mythological, and social themes. Artists specializing in live tableaux have noted that depictions of stories related to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj remain among the most popular choices.
Apart from historical narratives, themes such as environmental conservation, superstition eradication, political and social issues, and patriotic scenes are also in high demand. These displays not only attract large audiences but also receive enthusiastic responses, making them a staple of Ganeshotsav festivities.
The remuneration for artists participating in live tableaux varies based on several factors, including the traditions of the organizing committee, financial capabilities, the size of the pavilion, the chosen theme, and the number of performers.
In some instances, a lump sum is provided for the entire festival duration, while in others, the honorarium is calculated on a daily basis. The main performers can earn between ₹2,000 to ₹2,500, while supporting artists receive around ₹1,000.
Live tableaux performances are complex productions that involve a range of backstage professionals, including technicians, makeup artists, costume designers, lighting designers, musicians, scriptwriters, sound recordists, studio staff, and announcers.
These productions create employment opportunities for hundreds of individuals, contributing significantly to the local economy during the festival season.
According to estimates, around 700 to 800 backstage artists and technicians are involved in live tableaux in the city, with approximately 100 to 120 performances providing platforms for these emerging talents. Performance times are generally scheduled between 7 PM and 10 PM.
"We always prioritize local talent. Last year, we presented a tableau titled 'Kanyaratna,' featuring 11 young girls who were rewarded with bicycles instead of an honorarium as an encouragement. This year, we plan to showcase the tableau 'The Rule Desired by Beloved Sisters: Chhatrapati Shasan,'" shared Umesh Wagh, President of Akhil Janwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal.
Performing live tableaux poses unique challenges. "The audience is right in front of us, and often the performances are held in open spaces without the facilities of a traditional stage. Despite these challenges, the experience of presenting live tableaux is unmatched, and the audience's appreciation is deeply rewarding," said Shankar Jadhav, an artist also known as Dada Kondke Junior.
With the growing popularity of live tableaux, Ganeshotsav continues to evolve, blending tradition with contemporary artistic expressions and providing a vibrant platform for local talent to shine.