It was during the British rule, in India, that the first Public Ganapati first made its appearance. Dissent was fast spreading and the British were wary of any congregation. They passed a blanket rule that no large group of people would be allowed to meet together in any public place. All Public meetings were banned.

One of the greatest freedom fighters of India, Shri Bal Gangadhar Tilak, did not take this kindly. He made up his mind to break this illogical rule and established the first ever Sarvajanik Ganapati. Since this was about the religion, the British could not find political offense. They had learned the lesson during the great freedom war of 1857. Thus the British threat to a public meeting was diffused by Tilak and the gaiety of a people's festival established for all time to come.

In modern times, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, in the western part of the country. The idol, of Lord Ganesh is worshiped for days and then immersed on a auspicious day.