Mangaluru/Udupi: The coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are brimming with festive cheer as preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi reach their peak. Markets witnessed heavy footfall on Tuesday, with people purchasing flowers, fruits, sugarcane and decorative items, although afternoon showers briefly slowed the shopping frenzy.

Public celebrations and idol installations

In Udupi district, 486 public celebrations have been planned, with 77 classified as sensitive, three as highly sensitive and 406 as normal. Idol installations began on Tuesday evening, with the majority scheduled for Wednesday morning, accompanied by rituals, prayers and cultural events.

Temples across the district also observed the traditional Thene Habba festival on Tuesday, adding to the festive fervour.

Extensive security arrangements in Udupi

Authorities have tightened security across key towns and villages including Udupi city (27), Manipal (18), Malpe (19), Brahmavar (47), Kota (43), Kundapura (34), Shankaranarayana (31), Byndoor (47), Gangolli (31), Kollur (13), Padubidri (14), Shirva (14), Kapu (16), Karkala (28) and Hebri (21).

The District Armed Reserve and State Reserve Police have been deployed to ensure smooth conduct of festivities and safe idol immersion ceremonies.

Dakshina Kannada plans 398 public celebrations

In Dakshina Kannada, a total of 398 public celebrations will be held under the Mangaluru Police Commissionerate and district limits.

  • Under the Commissionerate, 172 pandals have been set up across Panambur (7), Kavoor (15), Bajpe (11), Surathkal (14), Mulki (19), Moodbidri (29), Mangaluru Rural (11), Kankanady Town (6), Ullal (10) and Konaje (8).

  • Under the district police limits, 226 celebrations are planned across Bantwal, Belthangady, Puttur, Sullia and other towns.

    • Police officials have conducted briefings to ensure law and order during the festivities, with additional personnel deployed in sensitive areas.

    Festive spirit with safety measures

    Despite intermittent rain, organisers, volunteers and devotees are optimistic about a grand celebration. Cultural events, traditional rituals and vibrant processions are expected to draw large crowds over the next few days, with authorities appealing to the public to cooperate with safety guidelines.