The video shared on Instagram carried the caption, “Divine energy and deep faith! #AnantAmbani takes blessings at Mumbai’s famous #LalbaugchaRaja”. However, several users responded with angry comments, with the issue of VIP darshan becoming the central point of discussion.
The criticism centres on the special treatment allegedly given to prominent visitors. Questioning Anant Ambani’s repeated visits to Lalbaugcha Raja, one user commented, “Daily ata hai kya ? As if he owns it” (Does he come daily? As if he owns it). Another wrote, “Roj ka kaam hai iska” (This is his daily routine).
The comments reflect the frustration expressed by some ordinary devotees, who feel that VIP visitors receive preferential treatment while the general public faces difficulties during darshan. Pointing to the alleged difference in crowd management, one user wrote, “Inke case me dhakka mukki nahi ekdum shaanti se aur general crowd ko dhakkel ke bahar karte hain” (In their case, there is no pushing or shoving; they are allowed to have darshan peacefully, while the general crowd is pushed out).
Another comment said, “Ye kitne bar darshn krne jara iski wjha se garib logo ko moka nhi milta.” (How many times is he going for darshan? Because of this, poor people do not get a chance.) Another user also expressed concern over the inconvenience faced by ordinary devotees. The comments have brought attention to the perceived gap between VIP visitors and the general crowd.
Similar criticism was also seen on Reddit in September 2025. At the time, a discussion alleged that the Ambani family’s involvement had affected the ‘original experience and sanctity’ of the Lalbaugcha Raja pandal. The criticism, therefore, has not been limited to one visit and has also included concerns over the increasing commercialisation of Lalbaugcha Raja and changes in the character of the pandal.
Several devotees have shared experiences alleging preferential treatment in the VIP queue. According to such accounts, ordinary devotees struggling to catch a glimpse of Bappa are allegedly pushed aside rudely by security personnel, while VIP visitors are able to spend time comfortably in front of the idol. Criticism has also been directed at the presence of Jio logos on packets of kumkum and advertisements inside the pandal, with some devotees arguing that these elements reduce the spiritual atmosphere.
In September 2025, the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission also took cognisance of a complaint related to the issue. The complaint concerned the special treatment allegedly provided to VIPs at the Lalbaugcha Raja pandal and the alleged humiliating treatment faced by ordinary devotees. To prevent violations of human rights, the commission directed that alternative arrangements be made.
Anant Ambani and the entire Ambani family have longstanding ties with Lalbaugcha Raja. They regularly visit Bappa for darshan and have also made substantial donations. The family had also offered a 20-kg gold crown to Bappa. Despite the criticism on social media, Anant Ambani has continued his visits to the famous Mumbai pandal during the Ganesh festival, keeping the debate over VIP darshan and the experience of ordinary devotees in focus.
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