Chennai: Vinayaka Chathurthi, marking the birthday of the Elephantine God, was celebrated with traditional gaiety and religious fervour across Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. Tens and hundreds of devotees thronged various temples of Lord Ganesha and took part in special poojas and abhishekams. All the temples of Lord Ganesha in every nook and corner of the State were tastefully decorated and illuminated to mark the occasion.
At the famous Pillayarpatti temple in Sivaganga district, special poojas were performed on the occasion in which thousands of devotees took part and offered worship. At Malaikottai in Trichy, a special 150 kg Kozhukattai (Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet) was offered to the God at the hill temple and later distributed as prasadams to the devotees.
After two years of muted celebrations due to the COVID pandemic, gala public celebrations were witnessed this year as the State government allowed installation of the idols of Lord Ganesha across the State. More than 1,000 idols of various hues and sizes were installed across the State with police protection. The idols will be taken in processions and immersed in sea and other waterbodies identified by the government during the weekends.
In Chennai, the state government has identified five places on the beach front for idol immersion. Tamil Nadu Governor R.N.Ravi and leaders of various political parties extended their greetings to the people on the occasion.
In his message, the Governor said “on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, I convey my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of Tamil Nadu.”
With significant dip in COVID cases, the Tamil Nadu government allowed Vinayaka Chathurthi celebrations in public places this year.
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