Chennai's 40-Foot Lord Ganesh Idol Becomes Centrepiece of Grand Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Chennai's Ganesh Chaturthi festivities are illuminated by a monumental 40-foot Ganesh idol adorned with brass plates, lamps, and seashells. The celebration also features a replica of Ayodhya Ram Mandir, enhancing the festive spirit. Devotees nationwide immerse themselves in this important cultural event.

Chennai's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations this year have been highlighted by the installation of a colossal 40-foot Lord Ganesh idol. This giant figure is decorated with 6,000 brass Thambulam plates, 1,500 Kamakshi lamps, and 350 white seashells, reflecting a stunning fusion of artistic craftsmanship and spiritual devotion.

The intricately crafted idol has attracted a large number of devotees to the Kolathur area, all eager to offer their prayers. The distinctive embellishments, including a prominently lit nose with 1,500 Kamakshi lamps and ears adorned with 350 seashells, add to the idol's grandeur and have captivated the public's interest.

Adding a unique dimension to this year's festivities, Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members have unveiled a notable replica of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir in Chennai. This model replicates the design of the Ram Mandir inaugurated at Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi on January 22, 2024, symbolizing a blend of traditional reverence and contemporary significance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm wishes for Ganesh Chaturthi in a message on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "Heartiest greetings of Ganesh Chaturthi to all countrymen. Ganpati Bappa Morya!"

The ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi, began today, celebrating Lord Ganesha as the 'God of New Beginnings' and 'Remover of Obstacles.' In Mumbai, excitement surrounds the unveiling of the Lalbaugcha Raja, one of the city's most famous Ganesh idols.

Since 1934, the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal has overseen the celebrations, with the Kambli family maintaining stewardship for over eighty years. In Nagpur, the 250-year-old Shri Ganesh Mandir Tekdi kicked off its celebration with traditional prayers and aarti, continuing to be a focal point for devotees.

Throughout Maharashtra and beyond, preparations are in full swing as devotees bring Ganesh idols into their homes, prepare offerings, and visit pandals. This collective participation contributes to the vibrant, festive atmosphere that defines Ganesh Chaturthi. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)