MAIDEN GANESH MAHOTSAV AT BIHIA

MAIDEN GANESH MAHOTSAV AT BIHIA

15-SEP-ENG 8

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------A Ganesh Mahotsav was organized on Monday by the 'Friends Club Puja Committee' at Judge Bazaar, located on Navodaya Road in the town. On this occasion, an idol of Lord Ganesh was installed, and formal worship was conducted amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras. Following the rituals, the ceremonial unveiling of the idol took place.

As soon as the idol was unveiled, the entire market resonated with chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya," creating an atmosphere filled with devotion. After the worship, *Prasad* (sanctified offering) was distributed among the devotees.

In the evening, a *Maha-Aarti* (grand prayer ceremony) was organized by the committee, in which a large number of devotees participated. Devotees performed the *Aarti* of Lord Ganesha, praying for the city's prosperity and the well-being of their families. A large crowd of devotees remained at the worship site for an extended period during the *Maha-Aarti*.

Rahul Kumar and Rohan Kumar, associated with the organizing committee, stated that this is the first time the youth have organized the Ganesha Festival. Preparations for the event had been underway for several days. An attractive *pandal* has been set up at the venue, complemented by colorful lighting and special decorations that have enhanced the site's appeal.

Committee members mentioned that special attention is being paid to the convenience of the devotees during the festival. Young men including Rahul Kumar, Rohan Kumar, Abhishek Kumar, Peter Kumar (alias Patras), Ashik Kumar, and Monu Kumar played a pivotal role in making the event a success.