Patna: The spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi swept across Patna on Monday as homes and pandals resonated with devotional chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” and “Ganesh Bhagwan Ki Jai.”
One of the biggest attractions was the grand celebration at Maharashtra Mandal on Daroga Rai Path, where a replica of Mumbai’s famous Lalbaugcha Raja was installed with traditional rituals.
The idol was adorned with a spectacular gold crown worth around Rs 55 lakh, studded with diamonds, emeralds and rubies.
CM Samrat Chaudhary Performs Aarti
Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary visited Maharashtra Mandal and offered prayers to Lord Ganesha. He also performed the aarti and sought blessings for the happiness, peace and prosperity of Bihar.
As the Chief Minister participated in the worship, the Maharashtra Mandal premises echoed with chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” and “Ganesh Bhagwan Ki Jai.”
Governor Syed Ata Hasnain Also Offers Prayers
Earlier, Governor Syed Ata Hasnain participated in the special worship organised at Maharashtra Mandal.
The Governor offered prayers before the Ganesh idol as devotees gathered at the decorated pandal to seek the blessings of the Vighnaharta.
Rs 55 Lakh Gold Crown Becomes Major Attraction
The replica of Lalbaugcha Raja has been given an elaborate traditional look, with the Rs 55 lakh gold crown emerging as one of the main attractions.
The crown is studded with diamonds, emeralds and rubies, adding to the grandeur of the Ganesh idol.
The idol was consecrated during a special ceremony on Monday morning, followed by traditional prayers and rituals.
501 Modaks Offered to Lord Ganesha
After the ceremonial worship, 501 modaks were offered as bhog to Lord Ganesha.
Devotees also offered durva grass, red flowers, vermilion and shami leaves. Fruits, laddoos, sweets and other offerings were also presented during the puja.
Pandal Designed Like Meenakshi Temple
Maharashtra Mandal secretary Sanjay Bhonsle said 12 artisans from Mumbai worked on the construction of the grand pandal.
The pandal has been designed on the lines of the Meenakshi Temple, while its interiors have also been decorated in a temple-inspired style.
The Ganesh idol has been made using shadu clay, giving the installation an eco-friendly touch.
Ganesh Pandals Light Up Patna
The celebrations were not limited to Maharashtra Mandal. Ganesh idols were installed at several locations across the city, including Mithapur Bus Stand, Chitkohra Market, Patna City and Danapur.
The pandals were decorated with colourful lights and flowers, while devotional programmes, bhajan-kirtans, aartis and prasad distribution were organised at several locations.
As evening approached, crowds of devotees increased at the pandals, with children and young people also participating enthusiastically in the celebrations.
Devotees Pray for Peace and Prosperity
Families gathered for aarti and sought Lord Ganesha’s blessings for peace, prosperity, happiness and the well-being of their loved ones.
Devotees also prayed for the removal of obstacles from their lives and for peace and prosperity across society.
