Return of Bengaluru's Ganesh Utsav 2025: Concerts and Magnificent Procession featured
Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025 is set to bring the community together in a grand celebration of devotion, art, and culture. The festival, which runs from August 27 to September 6, will take place at APS College Grounds and National College Grounds in Basavanagudi.
Star Performers
The festival features a star-studded lineup of performers, including Crazy Star Ravichandran, Vijay Prakash, Raghu Dixit, Rajesh Krishnan, Vijay Yesudas, MD Pallavi, and Praveen Godkhindi. There is also a special musical conversation between actor Ravichandran and director Mayuraa Raghavendra, accompanied by Manju Drums Collective.
Unique Thematic Productions
The highlights of the festival include unique thematic productions such as Kashi Damaru, a symphony of Hindustani percussion; Bhakti Janapada Sangeetha, celebrating Karnataka’s folk music traditions; and Gajamukham, which retells Ganesha’s stories through dance and music. A standout event is the women's mass recital of Ganesha Pancharatna shlokas involving over 20,000 women on August 31, transforming the streets into a powerful devotional space.
Evening Arathi and Drum Ensemble
Every evening features an Arathi ceremony led by the Beat Gurus, a 200-drummer ensemble blending rhythm and devotion.
Aromatic Karnataka Food Utsava
Although specific details of the Aromas of Karnataka Food Utsava for 2025 are not explicitly noted, the festival traditionally includes rich food experiences featuring Karnataka’s culinary heritage with food stalls and workshops often integrated into the cultural offerings. This complements the music and dance with authentic flavors across festival venues.
Eco-conscious and Cultural Traditions
The festival maintains its commitment to being plastic-free, using recyclable mantapas and eco-friendly Ganesh idols, continuing the blend of devotion and sustainability. Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025 serves as a sustainable model for large-scale cultural celebrations, maintaining its eco-friendly approach.
Community and Tradition
The festival concludes on September 6 with the grand Ganapati Visarjane procession, a vibrant and emotionally charged farewell. The event has evolved from a devotional gathering into one of the city's defining cultural celebrations, transforming the streets of Basavanagudi into a display of tradition, music, art, and community.
[1] Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava Official Website [2] The Times of India: Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025 [3] Deccan Herald: Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025 [4] India Today: Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025 [5] Bangalore Mirror: Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava 2025
