In Hyderabad, the city was filled with chants like ‘Ganpati Bappa Moriya’ as devotees celebrated Lord Ganesha. On Saturday, countless people gathered to say goodbye to the deity by immersing its idols. The farewell procession, known as Shobha Yatra, was carried out smoothly under tight security. Devotees from all over joined to send off the beautifully decorated idols on the streets.
Drums set the rhythm, and flowers and colors filled the air. Despite DJs being banned, the atmosphere was lively. Many gathered at Tank Bund to see the grand 69-foot Khairatabad Bada Ganesh immersed. Over 50,000 idols, varying in size, were submerged in Hussain Sagar and other water bodies, including specially made artificial lakes, marking the last day of ‘Nimajjanam’.
Prominent processions started from well-known pandals at places like Khairatabad, Begum Bazar, Balapur, Lal Darwaza, and Secunderabad. These events were full of excitement as they moved through historic sites like Charminar and MJ Market, eventually reaching Tank Bund. The parades featured dancers, musical bands, and fireworks, enriching the festive spirit.
Around 100,000 devotees assembled at Tank Bund, eager to witness the immersion of their cherished idols, especially the famous Bada Ganesh of Khairtabad which began its journey at 8 am and was immersed by 1:30 pm using heavy cranes.
Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and other officials conducted surprise inspections at Tank Bund. Director-General of Police Dr. Jitender, Police Commissioner CV Anand, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, District Collector Harichandana, Mayor Gadwal Vijaylakshmi, and GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan monitored security from above.
The main procession in the Old City started from Balapur and went through Charminar and Mozamjahi Market, merging with other processions from areas like Chandrayangutta, Lal Darwaza, Shalibanda, and Begum Bazar. This massive gathering is considered the largest in the city since the ones in Mumbai and Pune.
