Bhubaneswar, Sept 14: The state capital is all set to celebrate Ganesh Puja on a grand scale from Monday, with towering idols, elaborate pandals and spectacular entrance gates expected to draw large crowds across the city.
From an 80-feet-tall Maharaja-themed Lord Ganesh idol to massive laddoos and Maharashtra-inspired decorations, several puja committees have prepared special attractions for devotees.
80-Ft Maharaja Ganesh at Nayapalli
At Nayapalli Nuasahi, an 80-feet-tall Lord Ganesh idol dressed as a Maharaja will be the major attraction.
The mandap will feature an India Gate-style entrance, designed to convey messages of peace, harmony and brotherhood. A massive 30-kg laddoo will also be prepared for devotees.
71-Ft Bappa and 25-Ft Mushak at Baramunda
At Baramunda, the Smart Youth Force Organisation is preparing a 71-feet-tall Ganesh idol.
Adding to the attraction will be a 25-feet-tall Mushak, the traditional vehicle of Lord Ganesh.
The organisers will also arrange free Anna Seva for around 5,000 devotees for two days.
“We will also organise free Anna Seva for 5,000 devotees for two days,” said club member Tarini Prasad Singhdeo.
65-Ft Lalbaug-Style Ganesh at Badagada
At Badagada, devotees will get to see a 65-feet-tall idol inspired by the famous Lalbaug style of Maharashtra.
The grand idol will be accompanied by a 65-kg laddoo, a diamond-studded crown, silver footwear and a silver Mushak.
Organisers said they have also focused on using environment-friendly materials while preparing the idol.
Kantara-Themed Gate at Saheed Nagar
The Sahid Club in Saheed Nagar has opted for a distinctive cultural theme this year.
Its entrance gate will be inspired by Kantara and the art and culture of Karnataka. The structure will be around 65 feet high and 85 feet wide, showcasing traditional artistic and cultural elements associated with the state.
A 14-feet-tall Lord Ganesh idol adorned with silver ornaments will be installed inside the mandap.
The celebrations will continue for 10 days, featuring a Meena Bazaar and a range of cultural programmes for visitors.
Police Ready for Massive Crowds
With more than 400 puja locations across Bhubaneswar, the Commissionerate Police has made elaborate security and traffic arrangements for smooth celebrations.
Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena said large gatherings are expected, particularly between 4 pm and 11 pm.
Adequate police deployment, mobile patrolling, crowd management and traffic regulation measures have been put in place at major puja locations and vulnerable areas.
Mobile patrolling will be intensified from 5 pm to midnight, while special traffic arrangements will be implemented around major puja mandaps and along idol immersion routes.
