MUMBAI, Sept 18: The vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Mumbai came to a heartfelt conclusion as more than 37,000 idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Gauri were immersed in water bodies across the city by Wednesday morning. The immersion ceremonies, marking the end of the festival, attracted throngs of devotees who gathered at beaches, lakes, and artificial ponds to bid farewell to their beloved deity.
The immersion processions commenced on Tuesday morning and continued seamlessly through the night. Notably, the idol of Lalbaugcha Raja Ganesh, a major attraction that draws lakhs of devotees every year, was immersed into the Arabian Sea at Girgaon beach around 10:30 am. Thousands of devotees lined up to catch a final glimpse of the majestic idol.
Other renowned Ganesh mandals, including Chinchpoklicha Chintamani, also participated in the immersion, with idols being brought to popular spots like Dadar, Juhu, Marve, and Aksa beaches, as well as various artificial ponds set up throughout the city.
By 6 am on Wednesday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported that a total of 37,064 idols had been immersed, including 5,762 from community groups. Of these, 11,713 were immersed in the artificial ponds arranged by the civic body.
In preparation for the large-scale festivities, the BMC deployed thousands of personnel, lifeguards, and emergency services to ensure the processions proceeded smoothly and safely. Security measures were bolstered with the deployment of over 24,000 police personnel throughout the city, supported by the State Reserve Police Force, Quick Response Teams, Riot Control Police, Home Guards, and Maharashtra Security Force.
The Ganesh Chaturthi festival began on September 7 and culminated on September 17, celebrating the spirit of devotion and community that defines this cherished occasion in Mumbai.
As the idols were immersed and the festivities wound down, the city now looks forward to the return of Lord Ganesh next year, continuing the vibrant tradition that unites millions of devotees in devotion and celebration.
