Seeking divine intervention to resolve Mahadayi issue

HUBBALLI: Picture this: Farmers in the Malaprabha catchment area pray Lord Ganesha and apprise him of their problem in getting enough water for drinking and agricultural purpose. Feeling the farmers' pain, Lord Ganesha gives them darshan. He diverts the Kalasa-Banduri nala to Malaprabha river, bringing cheer among farmers.
This is one of the many themes which finds place at this year's Ganesha festival starting Monday.Bhusapet Ganeshotsava Samiti presents this burning issue in the North Karnataka region at its pandal. Organizer Mallikarju Shiragupp told TOI that the Samiti is presenting the Mahadayi issue with the hope that it will be resolved soon.
Like this, various themes derived from mythology, history, social and current issues will enthral devotees during the 11-day festival. More than 350 Ganeshotsava Samitis in the city have left no stone unturned in erecting huge pandals and idols of various sizes, spending about Rs 3-10 lakh. Hubballi, the centre of attraction, is all set to woo people from places like Haveri, Gadag, Koppal and Belagavi.
A replica of Yadiyur Siddalingeshwar Temple of Yadiyur, which came up at a cost of Rs 10 lakh, can be found at Sheelvantar Oni. Corporator Shivu Menasinkai, who is the president of Sheelvantar Oni Ganeshotsava Samiti, said: "We are creating 3-4 minute scene in which Lord Ganesha helps a king in solving the drought problem."
There is also a replica of Mysuru Palace at Shimpigalli. Organizer Gajanan Maruti said: "We are installing the replica of Mysuru Palace where Lord Ganesha blesses the king and queen. Besides, a 55kg idol will also be installed."
At Bardaan Saal, the theme depicts Ravana hands over atmaling to Ganesha. A huge replica of New Delhi's Akshardham Temple is installed at Durgadbail. Here, the theme of "Mailarlinga Mahatme" will be played for 5 minutes in which Lord Ganesha in the form of Mailarlinga eliminates demons. "We are spending Rs 9-10 lakh for this theme," said Suresh Revankar, an organizer.
At Maratha Galli, A huge idol of Lord Ganesha will be installed under the pandal, which resembles an ancient temple. At Station Road, there is theme on "Har Har Gange" in which seer Bhagirath brings Ganga to earth. "Hubballi Ka Raja" at Dajiban Peth is another major attraction as the tallest idol. Pandurang Meharwade of Gajanoshtsava Samiti, Dajiban Peth, said, "We are installing 21ft Ganesha Idol in sitting posture on throne on the lines of Mumbai's Lalbagacha Raja. The idol will be adorned with 24kg silver ornaments. We are spending about Rs 5 lakh."
Besides, many other themes like birthplace of Thalacauvery, Lalbag Ganesh and Shivaji Ganesh will be installed.