Andaman Sheekha Correspondent
Port Blair, Sept 7: A 30-feet tall idol of Lord Ganesha has been installed at Ward No. 2, Haddo, marking the 29th year of Sri Ganesh Puja celebrations organized by the Gana Sai Youth Club (GSYC). It is one of the tallest idols of Lord Ganesha in these Islands.
Club members, including nearly 40 men and 30 women volunteers, worked tirelessly for months to bring the dream alive. The celebrations began on August 27 with Murthi Pratishthapan, Vedic chants, Homan, and daily rituals, including prasadam distribution, morning and evening aarti, and devotional bhajans. A special Maha Annadanam was organized on August 30, which witnessed huge participation from island residents.
The highlight, however, is the unique plan for the idol’s visarjan. Instead of immersing the idol in the sea—a practice often leading to pollution and damage—the GSYC has created an innovative eco-friendly method. A large pit has been dug near the venue itself. The idol will undergo Panchamrit Abhishekam (milk, curd, turmeric, kumkum, and honey), followed by gradual immersion using pipelines connected to water tankers. The melted clay will later be distributed among households as sacred soil to be used for planting Tulsi.
Organizers emphasized that the model sets an example for pollution-free, respectful visarjan practices. The Port Blair Municipal Council and local administration extended full support, providing water tankers, plumbing assistance, and other logistics.
The final day, September 5, witnessed grand celebrations with dhol, dance, water games, and Ganapati Visarjan at the GSYC playground.
