Shivamogga: The Hindu Maha Sabha’s 81st Ganesha idol immersion procession, which started at Kote Sri Bhimeshwara Temple at 11am on Saturday, reached Seenappa Setty Circle.The marathon procession culminated at the Tunga River. The Ganesha idol was installed by the Hindu Sanghatana Mahamandali at the temple premises.Shivamogga police made unparalleled bandobast by deploying hundreds of personnel as a precaution. The procession featured traditional music and folk performances. Its route was adorned with decorations, showcasing the city’s festive spirit.The procession of the Ganesha idol was taken through Ramannashresti Park, Gandhi Bazar, Shivappa Nayaka statue, Ameer Ahmed Circle, and reached Seenappa Setty Circle.Shivamogga DC Gurudatt Hegde had announced holidays for schools and colleges for the day within the city limits.The Hindu Maha Sabha Ganesha idol immersion procession in Shivamogga dates back to 1945, following instructions from HMS leader VD Savarkar during the HMS’s national session held in the city in 1944. Although the procession was stopped several times for various reasons, and halted during the Covid-19 pandemic, it resumed in 2022. Despite obstacles, the procession has been held annually for 78 years, with devotees participating in large numbers.
