Ganesh Mandals Bring Mythology to Life
Hubballi
Ganesh Mandals across Hubballi-Dharwad are celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi with mythological themes and replicas of famous temples, drawing devotees in large numbers. The Sri Ganeshotsav Mandal at Station Road has recreated the Mylaralingeshwara temple and planned a 12-minute play depicting a mythological episode, while another group has built a replica of the Tirupati Balaji temple.
Hubballi, popularly known as Chhota Mumbai, has been a hub for grand Ganesh celebrations for decades, with over 500 large-scale public idols installed across the city. Popular spots like Durgadbail, Gandhi Market, Station Road, Hirepeth, Saraf Gatti, and Shilavantar Oni are showcasing special themes. Highlights include a Jaipur Palace replica at Durgadbail, the Krishnavatari Ganapa at Channamma Circle, a massive silver Ganesha, and idols inspired by Ayodhya’s Balarama and Jyoti Swaroop Sri Ayyappa Swamy.
At Station Road near Chandrakala Talkies, a scene titled Mylaralingeshwara Darshana portrays Lord Shiva as Martanda Bhairava and Goddess Parvati as Ganga Malavva descending to earth to defeat the demon Mani Mallasura and bless devotees. Srinivas D. Bochageri, President of Sri Ganeshotsav Mandal, said the themed play will be staged daily from 6 p.m., narrating the tale of divine intervention and blessings.
Rakshan Kattishettar of Sri Gajanana Yuvak Mandal, Mangalawar Peth, noted that Ganesh idols have been installed in the city for over 40 years, keeping the tradition alive while blending culture, devotion, and heritage through thematic celebrations.
