Mumbaikars bid farewell to Lord Ganesha

Mumbai, Sep 15: Devotees in Mumbai bid farewell to the biggest idol of Lord Ganesha of the 'Lalbagh ka Raja' temple on Monday, Sep 15.

Scores of people took part in the procession that started from the temple to the sea beach. The farewell procedure began with journey on Sunday with smaller idols being brought out for immersion along Mumbai's coast and continued till the early hours of Monday morning, with the larger idols being immersed. All roads leading to the immersion points were filled with people dancing and singing amidst tight security. The festival that began on September 3 with Ganesha Chaturthi marking the birth anniversary of God Ganesha signifies good omen and prosperity.

Legend has it that Hindu Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva had created Ganesha from a perfumed putty-like substance, and made him to stand outside her abode not to allow anybody in, while was having a bath.

Shiva flew into rage on not being allowed in by the boy and beheaded him.

Soon realizing his mistake, Shiva brought Ganesha back to life by putting an elephant head on his shoulders.

Thus was created Ganesha, the lord of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is worshipped by Hindus at the beginning of every auspicious occasion.

ANI