Kolhapur Welcomes Lord Ganesha With Joy

The city of Kolhapur resonated with devotional chants as thousands of devotees welcomed Lord Ganesha, marking the commencement of the 12-day festival. Families across various neighborhoods brought home idols with enthusiasm. Devotees utilized a range of transport, from cars and bikes to traditional bullock carts, to escort Bappa. The Kolhapur royal family also participated in traditional welcoming rituals. The Ganesh festival's arrival was further amplified by an elaborate procession featuring over 50 mandals, complete with giant idols and dhol-tasha troupes. This procession was facilitated by a specially designed signal system to ensure smooth movement amidst the large crowds. Authorities maintained a strong police presence to manage the throngs and traffic effectively. As evening deepened, homes were illuminated with lamps and filled with prayers, symbolizing the return of a cherished guest and the infusion of faith and joy into the city. The markets were bustling with activity as citizens purchased essential items for the festivities.