Baroda’s bond with Ganeshotsav

– An article by Poojan Patel

Baroda, India – Steeped in history and tradition, the city of Baroda, also known as Vadodara, shares a unique connection with the Ganesh Festival, a celebration that has come to symbolize the spirit of unity and the preservation of Indian principles. Inspired by the great Lokmanya Tilak, this festival has a remarkable tale of origin that ties it to the heart of Baroda’s heritage.

The story begins with Lokmanya Tilak, a visionary leader who aimed to galvanize the youth of India and reinforce its cultural roots. During one of his visits to Baroda, he encountered Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and stumbled upon an inspiring figure, Jumma Dada. Jumma Dada was not only a fervent advocate of physical fitness through vyayam (exercise) but also a refuge for countless revolutionaries in his akhada (traditional gym).

This marked the inception of a tradition that continues to thrive today. While the sword fights and wrestling contests have faded into the annals of history, the installation of the Ganpati idol, mirroring the one from that very first celebration in 1901, remains at the heart of this cherished festival. The Ganesh Festival serves as a living testament to the city’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its cultural roots. It has become a symbol of unity, a time when the community gathers to celebrate its heritage and principles, just as Lokmanya Tilak had envisioned.

Since 1936, the Chavan family has been creating Lord Ganesha idols for the Baroda Royals, the Gaekwads. The tradition began when Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad organized a competition for artists to create Ganeshji for the palace. Krishnao Chavan was selected and his family has been making idols for the royal family since then. The idols were initially made in the theme of Chandrasur Vadh, but were later changed to be more sacred. After Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III passed away, Maharaja Pratapsinhrao called saints from Kashi to Baroda to create a new idol. The idols are sent to the Rajmahal on Ganesh Chaturthi, adorned with gold ornaments and a pooja.

While we trace the history of Ganpati, Ganesh Utsav and Baroda we come across a tale so unbelievable that it might challenge your belief in its truth.

Sayajirao Gaekwad I, who ruled the region from 1771 until 1789, is at the center of this story.

Legend has it that the British, who were a regular presence in the immersion processions, walked alongside the royal family members, participating in this sacred tradition. However, on one fateful day, the Resident—a British official appointed for the princely state—chose to abstain from the procession. A dispute, veiled in secrecy, had arisen between Gaekwad I and the Resident, and it was potent enough to shroud the atmosphere in uncertainty.

In a dramatic turn of events, Gaekwad I took a decision that would baffle the city for years to come. He declared that the immersion of 11 sacred Ganesha idols would be suspended until the dispute with the British Resident was resolved. This unprecedented move sent shockwaves through the kingdom, leaving the faithful in a state of bewilderment.

As the days turned into months and the months into years, the idols remained untouched. The uncertainty ended only when the British government interfered and the matter was eventually settled. This mysterious incident in Baroda’s history remains a fascinating narrative, a whispered rumor that adds a layer of mystery to the city’s undying devotion to Lord Ganesha. The reasons behind Gaekwad I’s courageous move, as well as the nature of the argument, remain unknown, leading us to speculate about the hidden stories of the past.