Thousands of devotees converged at Girgaon Chowpatty amid heavy rains on Sunday to bid farewell to Lord Ganesha, marking the end of the vibrant 10-day Ganesh festival. This annual Hindu celebration, honoring the elephant-headed deity, culminates in idol immersions symbolizing his return to the divine. Despite a Thursday bomb threat warning of terrorists with 400 kilograms of RDX, the event proceeded peacefully, drawing crowds chanting "Ganpati Bappa Morya" for the deity's swift return next year.

Processions for major mandals, including the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja, began Saturday on Anant Chaturdashi and extended overnight. Immersions of at least half a dozen public idols were underway at the seafront, with Lalbaugcha Raja's idol transferred to a special raft for deep-sea submersion. Notable attendee Anant Ambani, son of industrialist Mukesh Ambani, joined the fervent gathering.

Security was ramped up with over 25,000 personnel from Mumbai Police, Central Armed Police Force, and others deployed citywide. Aerial surveillance via Indian Coast Guard helicopters and drones, plus an AI-based control room at Chowpatty, ensured vigilance. Police Commissioner Deven Bharti monitored proceedings alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, with QR codes and vehicle stickers aiding coordination.

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By 6 a.m., the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation reported 36,632 idols immersed, including 5,855 from public mandals and 30,468 from households. Officials confirmed no untoward incidents, highlighting Mumbai's resilient cultural spirit amid challenges.

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