Lucknowites welcomed ‘Bappa’ with great gusto this Wednesday which was marked as the first day of the Ganeshotsav. The celebrations are being held in a grand manner after two whole years of the pandemic and these monumental Ganesh puja pandals have been erected in some of the prime locations of the city.
‘Lalbaghcha Raja’, Patrakarpuram, Gomti Nagar
The iconic Patrakarpuram pandal boasts a vibrant 17×13 feet idol of Lord Ganesha sitting on a chariot. Another highlight of the venue is the facade of the pandal itself. This flaunts a massive yellow entrance inspired by Mumbai’s ‘Lalbaghcha Raja’ pandal, the oldest and the most prominent pandal of the city.
‘Manotiyon ke Raja’, Jhulelal Vatika
Marked by the dazzling chandeliers, engaging light shows and a grand town fair surrounding the celebration, the majestic pandal is hosted on the bank of River Gomti. The magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha, covered in glistering ornaments, is one awe-inspiring site to witness.
The Jhulelal Vatika is hosting an eco-friendly Ganesh pandal with enhanced emphasis laid on the cleanliness of the surroundings and of river Gomti. The members of the organising committee have also been raising awareness regarding environmental issues and have been planting more and more trees.
‘Aminabad ke Raja’ Pratap Market, Aminabad
This revered puja pandal is established inside Ram Darbar Mandir of the bustling Pratap Market of Aminabad. The theme of the idol is based on ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’, marking the 75th year of Indian independence. The idol is decorated with Indian flags, tri-coloured balloons and the temple prides itself with patriotic songs playing through its speakers. The entire Pratap Market alleyway is illuminated with celebratory decorative lights during the occasion.
The celebration of the festival in the aforementioned pandals will continue for a duration of 10 days followed by visarjan on ‘Anant Chaturdashi’, which occurs on September 9 this year.
