Andhra Celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi With Rhythmic Chants
Leaders extend heartfelt greetings for a prosperous festival.
Amidst the rhythmic chants and vibrant celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi, Andhra Pradesh’s top leaders, including Governor S Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, and YSRCP president Jagan Mohan Reddy, extended warm greetings to the people, praying for prosperity, peace, and the removal of obstacles. The festival, marked by devotion and communal joy, has swept across the state, despite challenges posed by heavy rainfall.
Governor Nazeer, in a statement from Raj Bhavan, described Ganesh Chaturthi as a cherished festival celebrated with fervor and family participation. “This sacred occasion is a time to offer prayers to Lord Vigneswara, seeking his blessings to overcome obstacles and usher in prosperity,” he said, expressing hopes for peace and harmony across Andhra Pradesh.
Chief Minister Naidu took to X to share his heartfelt wishes, invoking Lord Ganapati’s blessings for the Telugu people. “May Lord Ganapati ensure no obstacles hinder your family’s progress and bring peace to your lives,” he wrote, acknowledging the devotion of those setting up pandals and worshipping with joy. On Tuesday, Naidu launched an eco-friendly initiative at the Secretariat, unveiling a Ganesh Chaturthi poster to promote sustainable celebrations. He urged devotees to opt for clay or seed-based idols over Plaster of Paris (PoP), emphasizing environmentally safe immersions to protect rivers and ponds.
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YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy joined the festivities, participating in a Ganapati puja at the party’s Tadepalli office. In a post on X, he prayed for Lord Vighneshwara to remove obstacles and grant success to all. “I extend my warmest Ganesh Chaturthi greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh,” he said, echoing the sentiments of unity and hope.
Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy represented the state government by offering silk robes to the revered Kanipakam Varasiddhi Vinayaka, praying for the welfare and prosperity of Andhra Pradesh. His gesture underscored the state’s commitment to upholding traditional values during the festival.
Despite heavy rains complicating the procurement of ritual items like flowers, fruits, betel leaves, coconuts, and turmeric, devotees across Andhra Pradesh thronged markets to prepare offerings. The state buzzed with activity as communities installed colorful Ganesh idols, performed special prayers, and chanted hymns. Traditional sweets like modaks and laddoos adorned altars, while cultural programs, music, and dance added to the festive spirit.
From urban centers to rural villages, pandals sprang up, hosting gatherings that fostered unity and devotion. Preparations for idol immersions in rivers and ponds are underway, with authorities ensuring safety amid the ongoing rains. The festival’s vibrancy reflects Andhra Pradesh’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, uniting people in celebration even as they navigate weather-related challenges.
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