Shivamogga: Shivamogga is set to host the historic 82nd Hindu Mahasabha Ganeshotsava Friday, with the grand immersion procession scheduled to begin between 10am and 10.30am.Shivamogga MLA SN Channabasappa said the Ganesha idol immersion rituals will begin at 9am at Kote Shri Bheemeshwar Temple, followed by the Rajabeedi Utsav procession on Ananta Chaturdashi.Elaborate decorations line the procession route, including a massive artwork of Lord Hanuman at Gandhi Bazaar, created under artist Jeevan’s guidance; Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj-themed installations near Shivappa Nayaka Circle; and a grand ‘Vande Mataram’ welcome arch.Anticipating a large turnout, youth groups, local organisations and members of various communities, including the Jain community, have arranged food, buttermilk, water and sweets for visitors along the route.The district administration and police have held coordination meetings with organisers and political leaders to ensure security, peaceful conduct and smooth traffic movement.DC Prabhuling Kavalikatti has imposed traffic restrictions from 6am to midnight. Vehicular movement and parking will be barred along the procession route and within a 100-metre buffer zone. Traffic from Bengaluru, Bhadravathi, Davanagere and Shikaripura will be diverted via MRS Circle, Bypass Road and Alkola Circle. Emergency vehicles are exempt.
