Pahelwan Ganesh Pandal Celebrates 45 Years in Hyderabad’s Begum Bazar
The famous Pahelwan Ganesh pandal in Begum Bazar, Hyderabad, has completed 45 years. This pandal was started by three-time Andhra Kesari wrestler Santosh Yadav and his team to inspire young people to take up country wrestling.
The pandal, standing at 26 feet tall, features Pahelwan Ganesh holding Goddess Laxmi and Saraswati in his hands, attracting many devotees. After 10 days, a large immersion procession is expected, showcasing the pandal’s influence on promoting wrestling.
Santosh Yadav, the organizer of Jai Sri Krishna Yadav Mandal, shared that the majestic Pehalwan Ganesh idol has been a symbol of strength and inspiration for youth for 45 years. Family members and local businessmen help in installing the idol, which is crafted by artisans Vicky and Vinnu Kalakar from Dhoolpet over a month.
The purpose of Pahelwan Ganesh is to promote country wrestling among youth and honor Balaram, Sri Krishna’s brother, who taught this traditional sport in Mahabharat. It also aims to discourage harmful activities and channel youth energy positively.
Devotees like Dithi and Oorja Mishra expressed their admiration for the pandal. Dithi believes it promotes physical and mental health, while Oorja urges girls to participate in the immersion. Avish Yadav, a member of the Mandal, highlighted that the event has been organized for four decades, attracting youth from across the city to maintain their health.
Doubts Revealed
Pahelwan -: Pahelwan means a wrestler in Hindi. Wrestlers are people who compete in a sport where they try to pin their opponent to the ground.
Pandal -: A pandal is a temporary structure set up during festivals in India. It is often used to house idols and for people to gather and celebrate.
Hyderabad -: Hyderabad is a big city in the southern part of India. It is known for its rich history, culture, and delicious food.
Begum Bazar -: Begum Bazar is a famous market area in Hyderabad. It is known for its bustling shops and vibrant atmosphere.
Santosh Yadav -: Santosh Yadav is the person who started the Pahelwan Ganesh pandal. He is a wrestler who wanted to inspire others to take up wrestling.
26-foot tall idol -: An idol is a statue of a god or goddess. The 26-foot tall idol means the statue is very big, about as tall as a two-story building.
Artisans -: Artisans are skilled workers who make things by hand. In this case, Vicky and Vinnu Kalakar are the artisans who made the Ganesh idol.
Balaram from Mahabharat -: Balaram is a character from the Mahabharat, an ancient Indian epic. He is known for his strength and is the elder brother of Lord Krishna.
Jai Sri Krishna Yadav Mandal -: Jai Sri Krishna Yadav Mandal is the group that organizes the event. ‘Jai Sri Krishna’ is a way to greet or show respect to Lord Krishna, and ‘Mandal’ means a group or committee.
Devotees -: Devotees are people who are very dedicated to their religion or god. They come to the pandal to pray and celebrate.