GANESH FESTIVE WALK

Pune Expat Club organized a ‘Ganesh Festival Walk’ for their expat members on September 22. About 50 members from the international community a mix of French, British, Scottish, American, Italian, Canadian, Mexican, Belgian, Mauritian and German nationals assembled at Shaniwarwada. The members were briefed about the background of the festival. Going with the festive mood, everyone wore ‘Ganapati Bappa Morya’ caps and marched towards Dagdusheth Ganapati, Tulsi Baugh Ganapati (Monday). Nimbalkar Talim Ganpati, to name a few, found their way through the by-lanes of the old city, the walk started at 5 pm and concluded at 7.30 pm at Shaniwarwada.

“The city seems completely transformed and I am thoroughly enjoying this distinct culture,” said Rose Smith, a British national who has been living in Pune for the last eight years. Expats continued the walk and paid their respects to some of the important Ganesh idols of the city. They also enjoyed a shopping experience at Tulsi-Baugh market with great bargains on lots of home decorative items. Members also had a great time tasting some local snacks like pani-puri and famous wada pavs during the walk. “It’s great to see the lights and festivities. I am glad to be a part of this walk,” said David Haney, an American living in Pune The Pune Expat Cub (PEC), a not-for-profit organization that helps expats and global Indians to network, integrate, and enjoy their stay in Pune and also make lifelong friends along the way.

In addition, Pune Expat Club members can avail of attractive discounts at many outlets offering fine dining, sports and spas, health and beauty products, specialty foods, and travel. Membership to this club is complimentary and by invitation.