Ganeshas on the Move

It's a party on my ride home from work!

Over the course of my 45 minute commute home, I pass about fifty giant Ganeshas being transported from their communities (where they have been decorated and prayed to for the last week) to Hussain Sagar, the lake in the middle of Hyderabad.

As befits any god, each Ganesh is accompanied by their convey -- anywhere from five to fifty Indians riding in the back of a truck alongside the giant statue.  Even though Ganesh's true chariot is a rat (each god has a corresponding animal mode of transportation), the trucks ensure Ganesh travel in comfort.  He is often adorned with giant palm leaves and bright orange marigolds around his neck.

Many Indians are aglow in purple -- purple hair, faces, arms, hands, clothes... making it look a bit like a mono-chromatic Holi (which may be my favorite Indian holiday -- for this year's Holi pics, click here).

There's dancing in the street... yelling, singing.  The energy is almost intoxicating.  Lights are everywhere, and it feels almost like Hyderabad's version of Mardi Gras.

The lake itself is a sight to behold.  This is where all the Ganeshas disembark, with their followers submersing them in the lake below.  While I originally pictured this as a march out to the sea, this is now the 21st century.  There are dozens and dozens of huge cranes lined up around the lake, ready to submerge the elephant gods.

And to think... this is just the prelude!  The real festivities start later this week -- when over 10,000 Ganeshas will be brought to Hussain Sagar Lake, accompanied by drums, fanfare, and dancing galore.

Who said Hyderabadi's don't know how to party??