Khairatabad Ganesh 2024: A Grand Celebration in Hyderabad

Khairatabad Ganesh 2024 in Hyderabad

The Khairatabad Ganesh is a famous and grand tradition in Hyderabad, celebrated annually with one of the tallest Ganesh idols in the country. This year, the 2024 Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations have brought the 70-foot-tall Sri Saptha Mukha Maha Shakthi Ganapathi idol to life, continuing a tradition that has been upheld for seven decades. The colossal idol attracts thousands of devotees and visitors every year, making it a prominent feature of the city’s cultural landscape.

Location

• Location: Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Landmark: The Khairatabad Ganesh idol is prominently displayed at the junction of Khairatabad and its surrounding areas. The location is well-known and easily accessible.
• Accessibility: Khairatabad is centrally located in Hyderabad and is well-connected by public transport including buses, autos, and taxis. The nearest metro station is Khairatabad Metro Station.

Timings

**1. Ganesh Chaturthi Day (Installation Day):

• Date: September 7, 2024
• Timings: The installation and decoration of the idol start in the morning and continue throughout the day. The main ceremonies and public viewing begin by the afternoon.

**2. Darshan Timings:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Note: Peak visiting hours are typically in the evening. To avoid long queues, visiting during the morning or early afternoon is recommended.

**3. Special Events:

• Cultural Performances: Performances such as traditional music and dance take place in the evenings from around 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Religious Ceremonies: Key aarti sessions (devotional songs) are performed in the morning (around 9:00 AM) and evening (around 7:00 PM).

**4. Visarjan (Immersion Day):

• Date: September 17, 2024 (date may vary based on lunar calendar)
• Timings: The immersion processions generally start in the afternoon and continue into the night, with the main procession beginning around 2:00 PM and reaching the immersion site by 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

History

The history of the Khairatabad Ganesh stretches back to 1954 when a local devotee, Singari Shankaraiah, first installed a small, one-foot Ganesh idol in a local temple. Over the years, this tradition grew in popularity, and so did the size of the Ganesh idols. By 2019, the Khairatabad Ganesh had reached a height of 61 feet, making it the tallest Ganesh idol in India at the time.

The journey to larger idols continued until 2014 when the height increased by one foot each year. In 2023, a 63-foot-tall clay Ganapati was installed, setting a world record for the tallest clay statue. This shift from plaster of Paris to eco-friendly clay statues demonstrates the committee’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Ganesh Idol Structure (2024)

• Height: The Ganesh idol for 2024 stands at an impressive 70 feet, which is 7 feet taller than last year.
• Theme: This year’s theme is Sri Saptha Mukha Maha Shakthi Ganapathi, representing the seven-faced, all-powerful form of Lord Ganesh.
• Decorations: Around 200 workers, led by the renowned sculptor Chinna Swamy Rajender, completed the decoration of this grand statue in just one and a half days. The final touches, including the eye decoration, were performed in a special ceremony.
• Special Attractions: The idol is flanked by statues of Shiva-Parvati, a Srinivasa Kalyana Mandapam, and an Ayodhya Balarama statue, which serve as additional attractions for devotees. The structure features intricate details, colorful embellishments, and traditional motifs.

Nearby Places

1. Hussain Sagar Lake: Located a short drive from Khairatabad, Hussain Sagar Lake offers boat rides and scenic views, including the iconic Buddha statue on an island.
2. Birla Mandir: About 4 km away, this Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara offers panoramic views of Hyderabad and a serene environment for worship.
3. Lumbini Park: Situated around 3 km from Khairatabad, Lumbini Park features boat rides, a musical fountain show, and well-maintained green spaces for relaxation.
4. Salar Jung Museum: Approximately 5 km from Khairatabad, this museum showcases an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and historical items.
5. Charminar: About 7 km away, Charminar is an iconic monument and historical landmark surrounded by bustling markets and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The Khairatabad Ganesh 2024 continues a 70-year tradition of grandeur and devotion with its awe-inspiring 70-foot idol of Sri Saptha Mukha Maha Shakthi Ganapathi. As one of the tallest and most celebrated Ganesh idols in the country, the Khairatabad Ganesh is a significant cultural and religious attraction during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The festivities, combined with nearby attractions, make it a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.