In order to inspire the common man he started these two festivals which were celebrated across cast and creed. There are many festive days and different festivals in the Hindu religion, but they are celebrated individually and privately. For national awakening Tilak initiated Ganeshotsav and Shivaji Utsav in 1894. Shivaji Utsav started on Fort Raigad in 1894 and reached as far as Japan by 1905. In 1896 Ganeshotsav attained national importance. Soon he came to be regarded as the undisputed leader of Maharashtra and was honored with the title 'Lokamanya' in 1893 which became synonymous with him in the 1900.
"Celebration of Ganapati Festival started this year on 16th September. The very first day of the festival here has become a grand scenario. Mr. Bal Gangadhar Tilak and others have come to Bombay for provincial conference. Taking advantage of Mr. Tilak's visit to Bombay; organisers of some festivals had invited Mr. Tilak to deliver lecture. The first such lecture was organised in Keshavji Naik Chawls. Anticipating Mr. Tilak's lecture during Ganesh Festival thousands of people had gathered in Keshavji Naik Chawls to attend the same. Naraharshastri Godse delivered the lecture on "Gruhsthashram". Mr. Tilak elaborated the importance of the topic covered by Godeshastri.
News item published in Marathi Daily Kesari