Pune’s old city will observe 10 dry days during Ganeshotsav 2025. The liquor ban aims to maintain peace and safety throughout the festive celebrations.
Introduction
Ganesh Chaturthi—devoted, vibrant, and deeply rooted in Pune’s cultural identity—takes on a unique dimension in 2025. Beyond the artful pandals, the devotional aartis, and the cascading crowds lies a civic announcement aimed at ensuring safety and order: Pune’s old city area will observe dry days across the entire festival, from August 27 to September 6.
What Are These Dry Days?
Dry days refer to periods when the sale of liquor is expressly banned, including in shops, restaurants, bars, and permit rooms. Pune’s administration has declared a liquor ban throughout the 10-day Ganeshotsav—a shift from previous years where restrictions applied only to Ganesh Chaturthi and Anant Chaturdashi.
♦ As reported by the Times of India, the prohibition covers jurisdictions under the Vishrambaug, Faraskhana, and Khadak police stations, areas known for hosting many significant Ganpati mandals and processions.
♦ NDTV Profit notes that the ban spans August 27 to September 6, with additional enforced closures along procession routes on the festival’s 5th and 7th days.
Why This Measure Was Taken
The rationale is clear: controlling alcohol-related disruptions amid large gatherings ensures smoother celebrations.
♦ Police Chief Amitesh Kumar said the extension was prompted by concerns for public safety and law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of a calm spiritual atmosphere.
♦ The district administration, reflecting on past years, chose this broader ban to better protect public peace, especially in high-density mandal zones.
Community Response & Observations
♦ Some residents voiced frustration, pointing out the patchy nature of the restriction. As quoted in Times of India, “liquor shops on JM Road, Karve Road and Swargate areas are far from the areas with liquor ban—people can reach these areas in a few minutes.”
♦ The excise department, however, reassured that enforcement teams would monitor compliance within the restricted zones.
What’s New This Year?
Beyond the extended dry period, authorities made other shifts to adapt to festival dynamics:
♦ The district collector allowed loudspeakers to operate until midnight—a change from prior limits—on seven days: August 30 to September 4, plus Visarjan Day (September 6).
The Impact in Focus
The extended dry days are emblematic of Pune’s dual identity—rich in traditions, yet deeply conscious of modern civic responsibilities. This balanced approach can:
♦ Foster tranquil, inclusive devotions.
♦ Deter incidents fueled by alcohol, especially in crowded immersion routes.
♦ Encourage use of safer transport options as people may travel to unaffected areas for purchases
