Panaji: Hindu Janajagruti Samiti on Wednesday appealed Mumbai-based organizers of Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Mandal to revoke its decision to not install the idol of Ganesh this Chaturthi.
HJS Spokesman Dr Uday Dhuri, in a press statement issued here said that the mandal should install the idol of Shri Ganesh and seek His blessings on behalf of devotees for protection from the problem of COVID-19.
“We request you to make sure that the ritualistic practices are continued as prescribed without fail, even if that means toning down the celebrations,” he said.
Dhuri said that even if performing all ritualistic practices may not be possible in times of adversity, centuries old traditions should continue uninterrupted through the means of installation of a small-sized idol of the deity, having in place facilities of ‘Live’ Darshan, following ‘social distancing norms’, etc.
“This will earn the devotees the blessings of Shri Ganesh. We hereby pray unto the feet of Shri Ganesh that He removes all the obstacles in making this possible, with a hope that you will take our request into consideration,” he said.
Dhuri said that there is a difference between the ‘installation of the idol of Shri Ganesh’ and the celebration. The process of installing the idol is a ritualistic one whereas the celebration is an opportunity for the masses to express joy.
