- Thousands participate in festivities as markets flourish across the city
Bhopal: The city is alive with festivity as the people celebrate Ganeshotsav, with the installation of Shri Ganesh idols at approximately 4,000 locations, including around 250 grand tableaux. Devotees have also brought Ganeshji’s idols into their homes, marking the beginning of the nine-day festival. On Wednesday, the idols of elephant-headed god were joyfully paraded through the streets accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums.
In a bid to ensure safety and organization, the Municipal Corporation has installed CCTV cameras at major pandals. Additionally, daily collection of Nirmalya, or worship materials, will be conducted at every tableau, with dedicated vehicles set up for this purpose.
= Markets transforminto bustling hubs
The city’s markets have transformed into bustling hubs, with over 200 locations offering a variety of idols and festive items. Crowds flocked to shops in areas such as New Market, Chowk, Jumerati, Karond, Kolar Road, Atal Path, Roshanpura, 10 Number Market, Nehru Nagar, and Jawahar Chowk to purchase Ganpati Bappa idols. Notably, this year features unique idols, including one depicting Ganeshji seated on the idol of Shri Ram from Ayodhya, alongside the Ram Darbar.
The festival has also spurred a surge in the sale of traditional sweets, particularly Modaks. Sanjeev Agarwal, a sweets merchant from New Market, highlighted the introduction of new flavors such as coconut, chocolate, and saffron, with prices ranging from Rs 550 to Rs 800 per kg.
In a grand display of devotion, 351 kg of laddus will be offered at Peepal Chowk, while each day, up to 10 kg of laddus are presented in larger pandals. With around 1,500 tableaux participating, an estimated two quintals of laddus will be offered daily, showcasing the community’s spirit and devotion during this auspicious festival. The celebrations will continue with grandeur until Anant Chaturdashi.
=Ganpati Bappa installed at Mama Ka Ghar with rituals
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi brought the idol of Ganpati Bappa to his residence, “Mama Ka Ghar,” where it will remain. Accompanied by his family, Chouhan brought the idol with traditional rituals in the Mata Mandir area, expressing great enthusiasm.
He extended his wishes to the nation, stating, “Ganpati Bappa is Mangalmoorti, Siddhi Vinayak, Vighnaharta. May he remove obstacles and shower happiness on everyone.” Chouhan also emphasized the importance of supporting local products, urging citizens to adopt Swadeshi and buy items made in India, reflecting the nation’s culture and labor.
