Maharashtra Kicks Off 10-Day Ganesh Festival with Grandeur

The 10-day Ganesh festival began in Maharashtra, involving the installation of Ganesh idols in homes and public pandals. The event is marked by grand processions, heightened security, and extensive public participation. Authorities have urged eco-friendly celebrations and caution during idol immersions due to the presence of harmful marine species.

The 10-day Ganesh festival commenced in Maharashtra on Saturday, with idols of the deity being installed in homes and public pandals across the state. The event was celebrated amid fanfare and joy.

Families, including children and elderly members, stepped out of their homes early morning to bring their beloved god home amid the chants of 'Ganpati Bappa Morya' and drumbeats. Many people transported the idols of Lord Ganesh using autorickshaws, cars, and other modes of transport.

Traditional drum troupes accompanied morning processions, and many mandals, groups celebrating the festival in public places, brought in their Ganesh idols through grand processions. Devotees thronged markets and shops to buy flowers, puja materials, sweets, and decorations.

Several Bollywood celebrities and politicians installed Ganesh idols in their homes. In Mumbai, around 15,000 police personnel, including senior officials, have been deployed for security during the festival. As many as 32 Deputy Commissioners of Police, 45 Assistant Commissioners, 2,435 officials, 12,420 constables, home guards, and personnel from the State Reserve Police Force, Rapid Action Force, and the Riot Control Unit will ensure the festival's security.

Authorities reported receiving 3,358 applications from Ganesh mandals and granted permission to 2,635 mandals for setting up pandals. Streets and bylanes of Mumbai have already been brightly lit, with some of the most visited pandals including Lalbaugcha Raja, Chinchpokli, Ganesh Gully, and Tejukaya.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde urged people to celebrate the festival in an eco-friendly way and to help the needy in society. Meanwhile, the BMC warned against stingray and jellyfish bites during idol immersions in the Arabian Sea, asking citizens to take precaution.

(With inputs from agencies.)