GANESHOTSAV began with divine grandeur at Indore’s iconic Khajrana Ganesh Temple on Monday, as Lord Ganesha appeared in a breathtaking avatar adorned with jewellery worth over Rs 7 crore. The tenday festivities commenced at Brahma Muhurat with sacred Panchamrit Abhishek performed by Chief Priest Ashok Bhatt. Following the ritual, the deity was decorated in his most awaited Shringar, diamondstudded eyes, gold crowns, and silver ornaments for Lord Ganesha and his family, Lord Shiv and Goddess Parvati. The glittering ensemble has become the centre of attraction for devotees. The official inauguration was held at 10 am with flag worship by Indore Collector and Temple Committee President Shivam Verma, marking the start of the Mahotsav that will culminate on Anant Chaturdashi, September 25. The grand feast and new festivities: Staying true to tradition, the temple will offer a Maha Bhogof 1.25 lakh modaks, which will later be distributed as prasad. In addition, 11,000 laddus made from different grains will be offered daily throughout the festival.

 

This year’s celebrations go beyond rituals. The temple has announced a cultural line-up featuring Kathak performances, musical yoga, and devotional concerts by renowned artists. To ensure seamless darshan for all, the administration has introduced a moving ‘Chalit Darshan’ system and live streaming of darshan via the temple website and a new mobile app for online puja bookings. Tight security for lakhs of devotees: With over five lakh devotees expected from across the country, security has been fortified. The entire complex is under CCTV surveillance, with special barricading and additional police deployment. Indore Traffic Police have enforced a one-way system: Entry from Khajrana Square via Siddhivinayak Hospital and Ganeshpuri Road, and exit through the Kalka Mata Temple gate towards Peepal Chowk. Built in 1735 by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Khajrana temple remains Indore’s spiritual heart, and as Bappa shines in diamonds, the city is set for ten days of unbridled faith.