Patna: Ganesh Chaturthi is being celebrated across India today, with a grand event taking place in Patna, organised by Maharashtra Mandal. The highlight of the celebration was an intricately adorned idol of Lord Ganesh, featuring a gold and diamond-studded crown valued at Rs. 30 lakh. After the traditional Pran-Pratishtha ritual, a grand Aarti was performed, with chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” resonating throughout the pandal.
Men and women alike embraced traditional Marathi attire for the occasion. Sanjay Bhosale, Secretary of Maharashtra Mandal, remarked that this year’s event, like every year, was organised on a grand scale. The 6-foot idol of Lord Ganesh was specially brought in from Mumbai for the celebration.
Bhosale added that a daily offering of 101 kilograms of modak, a sweet traditionally associated with the festival, will be made to the deity. On 12 September, Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar is expected to visit the pandal to offer prayers. This year’s pandal has been modelled after the Ram Mandir.
The decorations were crafted by artisans from Kolkata, using 35 different types of flowers, including roses, marigolds, jasmine, chrysanthemums, orchids, and sunflowers. The flowers were sourced from Kolkata and Bengaluru, adding vibrant colour and fragrance to the festive atmosphere. A priest from Maharashtra has also been brought in to oversee the religious ceremonies.
