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The annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival, a vibrant celebration of Lord Ganesha, concluded on Tuesday with the grand ritual of idol immersion, marking the end of the 10-day festivities across Maharashtra. In Mumbai, the city pulsated with a blend of devotion and revelry as thousands of devotees accompanied their beloved Ganesha idols to their final resting place in water bodies. The event, known as Ganesh Visarjan, was a spectacle of colors, music, and cultural unity, drawing massive processions of people bidding farewell to their beloved deity.
As per reports from the Press Trust of India (PTI), a staggering number of 7,500 Ganesh idols were immersed in Mumbai alone. The majority of these idols, 7,227 to be exact, were household Ganpatis, reflecting the deep personal devotion many hold for the elephant-headed god. Community groups, known as 'sarvajanik mandals', also contributed to the count, with 300 idols from these organizations participating in the immersion processions. Additionally, around 50 idols of Goddess Gauri, a significant deity in Hindu mythology, were also immersed alongside the Ganesh idols, highlighting the interconnectedness of these divine figures in the cultural landscape.
To ensure the safety of the massive gatherings and to prevent any incidents during the immersion process, authorities deployed a robust security apparatus. A contingent of 24,000 police personnel was stationed across the city, supported by CCTV and drone surveillance systems. 71 control rooms were established to monitor the processions and respond swiftly to any emergencies. Lifeguards were stationed near water bodies, and speedboats were on standby to assist in any potential mishaps. This comprehensive approach ensured a safe and orderly immersion process, allowing devotees to bid farewell to their Ganpati idols with peace of mind.
Despite the joyous atmosphere surrounding the festivities, tragedy struck in some parts of the country. Eight men in Gujarat and one in Punjab lost their lives while immersing their Ganpati idols, highlighting the inherent risks associated with entering water bodies. In light of these unfortunate incidents, officials issued warnings to the public, urging them to exercise caution and prioritize safety while participating in the immersion rituals. They emphasized the importance of avoiding risky behavior and respecting the inherent dangers of water bodies, especially during large-scale events like Ganesh Visarjan.
The festivities also stirred political controversy this year, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attendance at a Ganesh puja at Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud's residence drawing criticism from certain quarters. However, PM Modi defended his participation in a speech, stating that those critical of his presence were driven by political motivations and a hunger for power. He emphasized that Ganesh Puja is a celebration of values and spirituality, transcending political ideologies and divisions.
Beyond the political undercurrents, Ganesh Chaturthi remains a deeply cherished and significant cultural event in India. The festival serves as a testament to the country's rich heritage and the unwavering faith of its people. It is a time for family, friends, and communities to come together in celebration of faith, joy, and shared values. As the festival draws to a close, the echoes of chants, the vibrant colors, and the spirit of devotion continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of tradition and the unwavering belief in the divine.
Source: Ganesh Visarjan: People bid farewell to Ganpati, more than 7,500 idols immersed in Mumbai