Don’t miss the latest developments in business and finance.

Mumbai says goodbye to Ganpati; waits for early return next yr

Image
Press Trust of India Mumbai
Last Updated : Sep 08 2014 | 9:25 PM IST
Amid unprecedented security, the metropolis, which paid obeisance to Lord Ganesh for the last 11 days, today bid adieu to the elephant-headed God by immersing thousands of his idols in the sea and artificial ponds, marking an end to Maharashtra's most popular festival.
By and large, the processions and immersions went off peacefully with no untoward incident reported so far, police spokesperson and DCP Dhananjay Kulkarni said.
In the backdrop of terror outfit Al-Qaida announcing a new South Asian wing, police had made extensive arrangements to secure the financial capital, where the Ganesh festival is celebrated at a mega scale.
Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria reviewed the security arrangements by personally visiting various sensitive spots in the metropolis. Defence helicopters kept a vigil from the sky.
Devotees in large numbers were seen lined up on both sides of the roads and also on buildings to take a glimpse of Ganesh idols during the immersion processions amidst a riot of colours, traditional dance and music.
Movement of open trucks and large vehicles carrying huge idols amid a sea of people seeking divine blessing along the procession routes virtually brought the bustling city to a grinding halt.

Also Read

As the idols waded through thousands of people, dancing devotees raised chants of 'Ganpati Bappa Moriya Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Yaa' (Lord Ganesh return soon next year) amid the beating of drums.
Over 12,000 big and small idols of the elephant-headed God were immersed at 27 artificial ponds and 72 points at beach fronts at Girgaon, Shivaji Park, Juhu and Malad Marve Road among others till 6 PM, civic officials said.
At Juhu beach, three persons suffered wounds in their feet after being stung by jellyfish that had assembled in the shallow waters off the coast. They were taken to the nearby Cooper Hospital, police said.
The Lal Baug Raja, the most popular Ganesh idol in the city, drew millions of devotees, who travelled miles along with the giant idol even as erratic rains failed to dampen the festive spirit.

More From This Section

First Published: Sep 08 2014 | 9:25 PM IST

Next Story