Visakhapatnam: The coastal metropolis of Visakhapatnam is buzzing with pleasure with the annual Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations peaking. Whereas towering idols of Lord Ganesha have historically garnered probably the most consideration, this yr, a plethora of eco-friendly and themed Ganesh idols have gained prominence.
One such modern idol has been crafted from pots at Pedajalaripeta, depicting a potter at work. One other is impressed by Visakhapatnam’s iconic landmarks, with a lighthouse-themed Ganesha positioned in a dolphin home. “Say No to Medication” theme has caught the eye of many. A Krishna-inspired Ganesha at Prakashraopeta and a guitar-themed idol at Pedajalaripeta showcase the variety of inventive expressions.
Political figures have additionally been part of this yr’s Ganesha festivities. Supporters of the Jana Sena Celebration have created an idol representing their chief Pawan Kalyan thanking the general public for the celebration’s latest electoral victories. Different idols have portrayed distinguished political leaders, together with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
Nevertheless, not all themes have acquired approval. One Ganesha idol, modelled after characters from the favored movie Pushpa, sparked controversy in Pedajalaripeta. Native residents deemed the portrayal disrespectful, resulting in calls for for its rapid immersion.
A gaggle of youth who arrange the idol instructed Deccan Chronicle that that they had finished so out of admiration for the movie’s characters. However following a wave of criticism and police intervention, they needed to immerse the idol sooner than deliberate.
As Ganesh festivities have entered the fifth day, seashores are busy with devotees immersing their idols. Visitors preparations have been put in place to make sure that the immersion of varied idols is easy and organised.
In all, town has a record-breaking 4,102 pandals, in comparison with 1,290 in 2019.
