Lalbaugcha Raja’s Immersion Delayed Due to High Tide and Technical Issues

Mumbai’s iconic Lalbaugcha Raja Ganesh idol faced an unprecedented delay during its immersion on Anant Chaturdashi, deviating from the traditional timeline. Typically, the idol is immersed by 9 AM the day after Anant Chaturdashi, but this year, the process commenced around 9 PM, over 12 hours later than usual.

Challenges Encountered

The delay was primarily caused by a combination of high tide conditions and technical difficulties. The procession, which began from Lalbaug at noon on Saturday, reached Girgaon Chowpatty by 8 AM on Sunday. However, by that time, high tide conditions had already set in, complicating the immersion process. The volunteers faced challenges in transferring the 18-foot idol from the trolley onto the raft due to waist-deep waters and strong currents.

Technical Adjustments

Traditionally, a mechanized raft is used for the immersion. This year, the organizers opted for an electrically operated raft, which presented additional challenges. The idol was successfully loaded onto the raft by 4:45 PM, but rough sea conditions delayed its movement into deeper waters. Volunteers had to ensure the idol was securely balanced amidst the massive waves before proceeding.

Community Response

Despite the delays, the immersion concluded peacefully with thousands of devotees present to witness the event. The community’s patience and devotion were evident as they chanted traditional slogans, bidding farewell to the beloved deity. The event highlighted the challenges faced during large-scale religious celebrations and the importance of careful planning and coordination.

In conclusion, while the delayed immersion of Lalbaugcha Raja was an anomaly, it underscored the resilience and dedication of the community in ensuring the successful culmination of the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities.