As part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samiti has unveiled a 70-foot-tall idol of Lord Ganesha in Khairatabad of Hyderabad. The striking statue, which has become a social media sensation, is already drawing large crowds and is expected to be one of the main attractions of this year's festivities.
Preparations Across Hyderabad
On Friday, devotees across Hyderabad were seen installing Ganesha idols of various sizes in pandals, homes, and commercial spaces. This year, approximately 1.4 lakh pandals are expected to be erected throughout Greater Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Medchal, and surrounding regions, marking a 10-15% increase compared to last year, according to a report from The New Indian Express.
However, the 70-foot Khairatabad Ganesha idol remains the centerpiece of the celebrations like the past year. The Ganesha idol will be available for public viewing following the completion of special pujas. The festivities will conclude on Anant Chaturdashi with the immersion of idols in various water bodies, including ponds and tanks across the city.
Traffic and Safety Measures
In light of the large crowds expected, Hyderabad's city traffic police have issued an advisory for the safe setup of Ganesh pandals. The advisory emphasizes the use of high-quality materials for constructing temporary mandaps to withstand heavy crowds, winds, and rains. Strict guidelines have also been laid out regarding the use of tarpaulins for roofing, secure electrical fittings, and restrictions on the installation of idols on public roads or pavements.
Additionally, the playing of loud music is prohibited in Ganesh pandals to avoid disturbing neighbors, students, or those unwell. Loudspeakers are not allowed after 10 PM, and activities such as lucky dips, lotteries, or forced fund collections in the name of the Ganesh mandaps are banned, according to a report by Times Now.