When Ganpati pandals turn into stages

During Ganeshotsav, some Pune mandals choose a unique approach to attract crowds during the grand festival - by presenting live performances known as jivant dekhava. These performances, featuring elaborate costumes, dramatic dialogues, music, lighting and well-designed sets, bring stories to life in a theatrical setting.

Unlike static decorations, jivant dekhava captivates visitors for several minutes as they watch the unfolding narrative. The tales can range from mythology and history to popular stories. Some mandals present themes based on Markandeya, Kantara, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's encounter with the British, Veerabhadra avatar, Ramayana episodes, Mahishasura Vadh, and Ali Baba and Chalis Chor.

Visitors appreciate the unique experience. Sunita Shinde, who visited the Kantara-inspired pandal, remarked, "The live performance of Kantara was something different. The acting, costumes and dramatic presentation made us stop and watch the story till the end." Families with children also enjoy these performances; Bhagyashree Patil's 11-year-old son was particularly drawn to the Ali Baba and Chalis Chor presentation.

These live performances create an engaging theatrical experience that transforms the pandal into a temporary theatre. Unlike traditional tableau displays, jivant dekhava requires the audience to stay engaged with the narrative. For children in particular, these presentations offer an alternative way of experiencing stories they might otherwise encounter through books, television or family conversations.

The tradition of jivant dekhava is deeply rooted in Pune's Ganeshotsav culture, where mandals use the festival as a platform for drama, social messages, history and mythology.