SURAT – This year, the revered Ganesh Utsav in Surat took a different course. Traditionally, the grand immersion of the Ganesh idol, a key event, continued till the morning following Anant Chaudas. But, spurred by increased awareness and announcements from the local police, the process commenced even before dawn on Anand Chaudas itself.
Surat's vibrant populace has always celebrated Ganesh Utsav with immense enthusiasm. In past years, the Ganesh Visarjan Yatra, a procession leading to the immersion of Lord Ganesh's idol, could be seen winding through the city's streets for hours. Immersion rituals were primarily held at the Tapi river, drawing vast crowds eager to witness the spectacle.
However, changes emerged following a ban on immersions in the Tapi river. The Surat Municipal Corporation established artificial lakes, and coastal areas like Dumas, Magdalla, and Hazira became new immersion sites for the statues, some reaching a towering nine feet in height.
A noteworthy shift occurred this year. Several Ganesh Mandals initiated the immersion yatra for large idols in the early hours, before most of Surat's residents had even awoken on the morning of Anand Chaudas. Devotees from various parts of Surat, including Nanpura, Syedpura, and Chowta Bazaar, began their worship routines early. By around 4:45 am, grand idols set forth from landmarks like Makkai Bridge and Adajan Gujarat Gas Circle, heading towards Hazira. Before the official commencement of the immersion process at the artificial lakes, many organizers completed the ritual and headed home.
This year's adaptation in immersion timing marks a significant shift from the usual custom. By starting the process on the eve of Anand Chaudash itself, there's an evident reduction in daytime congestion, making it a more streamlined affair for everyone involved.
