Women lead many processions

Hyderabad: The Ganesh nimajjanam this time was not an all-men affair, with women in large numbers leading the smaller teams that merge into the main procession. Previously, most women offered puja and performed the harathi before the idol left their local pandals for the immersion procession. The number of women processionists was very small, as they feared harassment from unruly men.

This year, women came out in large numbers, scores of them accompanying the tractors pulling the Ganesha idols and stayed overnight for the immersion, “We want to show our devotion towards Lord Ganesha. We thought this is the best way we can bid him a whole-hearted farewell.” said Jyothika, an engineering student from Jiyaguda area.

Housewives were seen leading their family processions. “This is a the time for joy and celebration. It gives us an opportunity to come together as a family and offer our prayers.” said Lakshmi Rajesh from Chintalbasti.

“Women are showing great interest in such celebrations and that is a good sign. Like in every field, they should be encouraged. After all, all are equal before God” said ACP, City Police Training Centres, E. Supraja, who was coordinating security arrangements at the MJ market junction. The police deployed 150 SHE teams to nab men who are out to harass women.