Vinayaka Chathurthi, festive colours splash all over Mangaluru

Vinayaka Chathurthi, festive colours splash all over Mangaluru

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 06, 2016: Vinayaka Chathurthi, Sept 5, Monday was a super hit in the city;  Markets across the city since Sunday was upbeat and large of crowds of Mangalureans shopping was a sight. The steep rise in prices of flowers, veggies and fruits, did not a seem to be a damper for people were seen ready for the festival. 

Central market, Kadri Mallikatte, Kaikamba market, Bunts hostel, along the foot paths of State bank area,Lady Goshen  and other places were crowded with customers bargaining for flowers, religious articles, fruits and veggies. Several flower growers from other districts too have descended on the city for a profit.

Flower dealers in the city claimed that flowers are cheaper this year. Last year, a bundle flowers which were sold for Rs 100 are being sold at Rs 50 this year said a flower vendor. The flowers to Mangaluru are supplied from Hassan and Mysuru region.

A lady from Kulshekar who was scouting for vegetables at Kaikamba market said that compared to last year, the prices of vegetables have sky-rocketed now. Managing to buy few of the vegetables that are must for the celebration, important among all is moode moulds made of Kedige (screw pine) and the like were vital.  Moode is a very traditional Mangalurean recipe, where idli batter is filled into it and steamed.


A range of  traditional Ganesha idols were on display. Idols were sold at Car street, Mannagudda and other places. Idol sellers said that on the day of celebration, Sept 5, Monday, the city will witness people carrying small sized idols of Lord Ganesha on their head. The big ones are taken in trucks and other vehicles in a grand procession, accompanied with the chanting of bhajans, dance and songs.   Idols are taken from the sculptors’ place as early as 5 am to devotee’s homes and puja is performed as per custom. Later, different varieties of fruits, flowers and sweets are offered to Lord Ganesh , including Modak, a yellow flower shaped sweet, believed to be one of his favourites. Most of the devotees perform puja till late evening and then, immerse the idol in the local pond  or home well itself. Others prefer to keep Lord Ganesha for few more days before immersing it.

Apart from this, Lord Ganesha idols are installed at various public places in the city.  The most famous Ganesha celebrations are held at Bunts Hostel, Sanganikethan, Kulshekar Cross and Nehru Maidan.