Lakhs of devotees join Ganesh immersion processions in Hyderabad

Lakhs of devotees thronged the streets of Hyderabad for Ganesh idol immersion on Saturday. The massive processions, featuring idols up to 50 feet tall, moved towards Hussain Sagar and other water bodies amid chants, music, dancing, and festive fervour

Hyderabad: Lakhs of devotees poured onto the streets of Hyderabad on Saturday to participate in the massive centralised Ganesh idol immersion processions, turning the city into a vibrant sea of colour and devotion.

The processions, which began late on Friday night, continued through the early hours of Saturday, with fresh groups joining at various points and converging at immersion sites across the city and suburbs. By around 2 pm, the main routes were packed with crowds as idols lined up one after another, awaiting immersion.

The biggest gatherings were witnessed at Charminar, Afzalgunj, Begum Bazar, MJ Market, Hyderabad GPO (Abids), Taj Mahal Hotel crossroads, SBI, Basheerbagh, Liberty, and Secretariat, marking the grand culmination of the 10-day festivities.

Lord Ganesha idols in myriad forms and sizes, ranging from one foot to towering 50 feet, were carried on handcarts, trucks, goods vehicles, and even tuskers. On either side of the routes, devotees thronged to catch a glimpse, chanting prayers and cheering the celebrations.

The air reverberated with the rhythmic sounds of drums, cymbals, and dhol-tasha troupes as devotees danced and sang hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha. Processions from mandapas across the city made their way towards Hussain Sagar, artificial ponds, and other water bodies, accompanied by gulal sprays and devotional fervour.

Adding a colourful touch, participants came dressed in traditional attire. At several places, pandal organisers distributed prasadam, snacks, jalebis, and drinking water bottles to devotees, enhancing the festive spirit.