Ganesh idol immersion begins in Hyd amid tight security

Hyderabad, Sep 6 (UNI) The immersion of Ganesh idols began in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad today amid tight security.

The rhythm of 'dholaks', the music of clarinets and silver-coated trumpets, the chimes of brass bells and the large number of police made a strange combination as the Lord came in myriad forms, while Chants of 'Ganapati Bappa Morya' and 'Ganesh Maharaj Ki Jai' rent the air.

Thousands of idols of the elephant-headed Lord Ganesh in different sizes and shapes were installed in the twin cities. They were transported on trucks to the tankbund for immersion in Husain Sagar. Police kept a close vigil after intelligence reports warned that subversive elements could create trouble during the festivities.

A 40-foot tall idol weighing 120 tonnes was a special attraction.

The 'Nimmajanam' in Hussain Sagar was being monitored strictly, as Andhra Pradesh High Court issued orders to minimise pollution.

About 22,000 policemen were deployed in the city for the festival. Additional security arrangements would be in place for the immersion procession, in which a million people were expected to take part, as it would pass through the communally sensitive localities.

UNI AP/BR AA VD MIR RN1649