IN PHOTOS: Devotees throng Parel, Mumbai to welcome Lord Ganesha

The spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi came alive in Mumbai’s Parel on Sunday as thousands of devotees gathered in a grand and heartfelt welcome for Lord Ganesha. The bustling neighborhood was transformed into a sea of color, music, and devotion as iconic Ganpati idols arrived amidst chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya!”

From early morning, roads in Parel were packed with people carrying idols of all sizes, dancing to the beats of traditional dhols and drums. Devotees, dressed in festive attire, joined processions that moved through narrow lanes and open streets, unfazed by the crowd or the summer heat.

Local mandals unveiled their elaborate Ganpati idols, some over 15 feet tall, adorned with intricate decorations, flowers, and themed backgrounds ranging from mythological stories to social messages. Volunteers lined the streets distributing water, prasad, and sweets to participants and onlookers.

Children and elders alike joined in the celebrations, lighting incense, offering coconuts, and chanting prayers in unison. In several areas, the arrival of the Ganpati idols was marked by spectacular flower showers and fireworks.

Security was tight, with local police and volunteers working together to manage the massive crowd and ensure a peaceful and safe celebration. Traffic was diverted in several parts of the city to accommodate the large processions.

As one local resident put it, “No matter how crowded it gets, the energy and devotion during Ganesh Chaturthi in Parel are unmatched. It’s something you have to witness at least once in your life.”

With the arrival of the beloved deity, festivities are now set to continue for the next 10 days with daily aartis, cultural events, and community gatherings before the grand visarjan (immersion) ceremonies begin.