Girgaoncha Raja tallest shadu idol

In a festival where Ganpati pandals compete to host the tallest idols, the biggest gatherings, and the most eco-friendly statues, how does one verify the claims?

- Manoj Ramakrishnan

For the last few years, independent agencies have offered services to verify and certify the claims. This year, many pandals in Mumbai used the help of agencies to get certificates in various categories.

This year, at least three pandals set different records. The Girgaoncha Raja pandal at Nikatdwari Lane, Girgaon, received its first certificate for the tallest idol made of shadu or natural clay. The pandal, which hosted its Ganeshotsav, got the record certified by the World Records Book of India, a keeper of records. The 21ft Ganpati, seated on a throne, is made from clay, bamboo, grass, and other natural material.