Ganesh Chaturthi: President, PM extend wishes as celebrations begin amid Covid

• The 10-day festivities for Ganesh Chaturthi have begun amid Covid restrictions. Devotees across the country have geared up to celebrate the festival with fervour. President Kovind wished people on the occasion, urged everyone to follow Covid protocols. PM Modi also took to Twitter & extended wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion. Like last year, pandemic has again put a halt to large-scale celebrations across the nation. In Mumbai, police have imposed Section 144 from September 10-19 to curb public gatherings. According to police, no processions would be allowed in Mumbai between September 10-19. Police said devotees wouldn't be allowed to visit pandals, virtual darshan facilities will be available. In Pune too, police said all Ganesh mandals will do the immersion at their pandals this year. Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival, marks the birth of Ganesh, god of prosperity and wisdom. It begins on the fourth day of chaturthi of the month of Bhadra, sixth month of Hindu calendar.