Shivamogga: The immersion of the historical 82nd Hindu Mahasabha Ganesha idol began with immense fervour in Shivamogga on Friday. Installed by Hindu Sanghatana Maha Mandali, the procession was flagged off from Kote Sri Bheemeshwar Temple located on the banks of Tunga River on SPM Road.The procession started amid colourful cultural troupes featuring Dollu, Tamate, Veeragase and traditional brass trumpets, accompanied by the bursting of firecrackers. Thousands of devotees, including youth and women, joined the procession, dancing to the beats of cultural music.Shivamogga MLA SN Channabasappa participated in the event and sat atop the tractor carrying the Ganesha idol. Devotees lined up near Kote temple to offer garlands and youth groups used cranes to shower heavy floral garlands on the deity.As the procession reached Gandhi Bazaar near Basaveshwara Temple, security was intensified. With the procession route passing in front of Sunni Jamia Masjid in Gandhi Bazaar around 5.30pm, the police department deployed strict precautionary measures. Three police vehicles, along with special action force (SAF) and rapid action force (RAF) units, were stationed at the spot while officers ensured the crowd moved along smoothly without gathering.Shivamogga superintendent of police B Nikhil monitored the situation directly on site, backed by KSRP, DAR and RAF platoons, with the city under strict CCTV and drone surveillance to prevent any untoward incidents.Following its route through major city circles and thoroughfares, the Hindu Mahasabha Ganesha procession will conclude near Kote Sri Bheemeshwar Temple premises, where the idol will be immersed in Tunga River at midnight.
