Police have made security arrangements for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Hyderabad, especially in the Old City. Over 15,000 policemen and paramilitary personnel have been deployed. The festival began on Monday with the installation of Lord Ganesh idols in homes, pandals, shops, colonies, markets, and other public places.
Hyderabad is known for its passion for Ganesh Chaturthi. The city has various colorful Ganesh pandals with big and unique statues. The festivities started with tight security as thousands of idols were installed at specially decorated pandals. On the first day, processions accompanied by traditional band-baja and chants of ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’ took place. Worshippers brought the Ganesh idol home and performed rituals after installation. People were busy buying idols, flowers, fruits, and other pooja items from the markets. Giant idols were transported from Dhoolpet to different areas under police restrictions.
The city showcased its creative streak with various moldings of idols. The artisans impressed devotees with their attention to detail and artistic talents. The Khairtabad Bada Ganesh attracted a large number of devotees, including Telangana Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan who performed pooja to the 63-ft-long idol. Balapur Ganesh, famous for its laddu auction, also captivated everyone’s imagination. The idol will be auctioned after the festivities to bring goodwill and prosperity.
Massive security arrangements have been made by the police, especially in the communally sensitive areas of the Old City. The festival will conclude with a grand procession on September 28, where thousands of idols will be immersed in Hussain Sagar Lake.
