29 September,2023 01:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ganapati Visarjan/ Pic/Pradeep Dhivar
Mumbaikars, on the tenth day of Ganesh Chaturthi, bid a sentimental farewell to their beloved Bappa. The significant cultural event concluded without untoward incidents, ensuring that the beloved deity, Lord Ganesha, had a smooth visarjan.
According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's statistics, until 12 pm on Friday, as many as 6,951 Sarvajanik (public) idols were immersed while the Gharguti (household) idols immersed stood at 32,345. Along with Ganapati idols, 462 Gauri idols were also immersed taking the total to 39,758.
What makes this year's immersion even more commendable is the growing adoption of eco-friendly practices. A considerable number of idols found their way into specially created artificial lakes, reducing the pollution of natural water bodies. The breakdown of idols immersed in artificial lakes is as follows:
- Sarvjanik idols immersed in artificial lakes: 740
- Gharguti idols immersed in artificial lakes: 10,207
- Gauri idols immersed in artificial lakes: 160
- Total idols immersed in artificial lakes: 11,107
This eco-conscious approach to immersion aligns with the broader commitment to environmental conservation, demonstrating the city's dedication to preserving its natural resources.
The immersion process was a day filled with devotion and cultural richness. Devotees from all corners of the city thronged the immersion points with great enthusiasm, participating in the age-old ritual with music, dance, and prayers.
The Disaster Management Unit (DMU) reported that there were no untoward incidents recorded during the immersion, reflecting meticulous planning and effective security measures to ensure the safety of devotees and the seamless execution of the festivities.
Ganesh Chaturthi, which commenced on September 19, culminated on Anant Chaturdashi with the immersion of idols in the Arabian Sea and other water bodies across the city. In the iconic Lalbaug area, renowned for its grand celebrations, the procession of idols from Tejukaya and Ganesh Gully mandals began with chants of 'Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya' (come soon next year, Lord). Notably, the procession of the famous Lalbaugcha Raja idol, which draws a maximum number of devotees during the 10-day festival, commenced around 11:30 AM, attracting large crowds eager for the final 'darshan' of the idol. The procession ended with visarjan at 9.20 am today.
