India, Sept. 16 -- Ganeshotsav in Mumbai today may be synonymous with towering idols, elaborate decorations and lakhs of devotees, but its roots lie in quieter, community-driven celebrations. Some of the city's oldest Ganesh mandals continue to celebrate the festival just like their communities did a century ago, with modest idols, traditional rituals and intimate community gatherings.

Of the 32 Ganesh mandals in the Mumbai region that are at least 100 years old, 24 are in and around Girgaon, according to Khaki Tours, an organisation that conducts walks and tours across Mumbai.

At the 105-year-old Angrewadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal at VP Road in Girgaon, this year's celebrations are particularly subdued. Two residents, Nitin Gadre ...