Jamshedpur: The city is immersed in devotion and grandeur as the much-awaited Ganesh Puja Mahotsav commenced on Wednesday, coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi. Streets across Jamshedpur have come alive with colourful decorations, music, and the resonating chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya as devotees welcomed Lord Ganesha with deep reverence.
From dawn, devotees thronged temples and puja pandals, offering prayers, sweets, and flowers to seek blessings from the remover of obstacles. Major neighbourhoods such as Sakchi, Kadma, Bistupur, CH Area, and Jugsalai witnessed large-scale installations of idols, each pandal showcasing unique themes and intricate artistry. Several puja committees have roped in skilled artisans from West Bengal and Odisha to create idols that range from traditional depictions to modern, eco-friendly designs.
The puja pandals, adorned with vibrant lights, artistic backdrops, and floral decorations, have become a centre of attraction for residents. Cultural programmes, devotional singing, and bhajan evenings have also been lined up over the ten-day celebration. “Ganesh Puja brings the community together. It is not just a religious occasion but also a festival of unity, creativity, and joy,” said a member of the Sakchi Ganesh Puja Committee.
Security arrangements have been tightened across the city to ensure smooth conduct of the festivities. Police personnel have been deployed at major pandals and traffic diversions have been put in place to manage the surge of visitors. Special attention is also being given to fire safety and crowd control, while CCTV cameras have been installed at prominent venues for monitoring.
Eco-conscious initiatives have been introduced this year, with many puja committees opting for clay idols painted with natural colours to reduce environmental impact during immersion. The administration has designated specific water bodies, including Subarnarekha and Kharkai river ghats, for idol immersion to maintain cleanliness and safety.
Markets in Bistupur and Sakchi witnessed heavy footfall in the days leading up to the festival, with people purchasing puja essentials, sweets, and decorative items. Sweet shops reported brisk sales of modaks, laddus, and other festive delicacies, which are considered favourites of Lord Ganesha.
The festivities will continue for the next ten days, culminating with the grand immersion procession, which traditionally draws thousands of devotees. The immersion will be marked by vibrant processions, music, and dance, symbolising a heartfelt farewell to Lord Ganesha with the hope that he returns next year with renewed blessings.
