Haveri: While Ganesh idol immersion ceremonies have mostly concluded across public places in the country, the Hindu Mahasabha of Bankapur in Shiggaon taluk, Haveri district, continues to hold the Ganesh idol without immersion even after 44 days of installation. The Mahasabha members have refrained from immersing the idol, citing the district administration’s refusal to allow the use of DJ music during the immersion procession.
Thousands of devotees visit the Bankapur Ganapati to offer prayers, making it a significant local attraction. However, the Hindu Mahasabha Ganapati Association members stated that they will immerse the Ganesh idol as soon as permission to use DJ music from 10 PM onwards is granted. They highlighted that for the past 42 years, they have been conducting public Ganesh installations and ceremonies without any disturbance, and therefore expect DJ permission as usual this year.
The Haveri district administration, led by District Commissioner, has banned the use of DJ music in public places, citing multiple violations and complaints. So far, 12 cases related to unauthorized DJ use have been registered, and the police have confiscated DJ equipment and generators at various locations. Police Superintendent Yashodha Vantagodi emphasized strict enforcement and noted that any disobedience will lead to further legal action and equipment will be seized.
Despite the ban, the Hindu Mahasabha has planned the Ganesh immersion on the upcoming Sunday, which will be accompanied by a grand procession. The event will have the participation of senior dignitaries including Union Minister Prahlad Joshi and Haveri MP Basavaraj Bommai. Adequate security arrangements have been made in collaboration with the police.
The association has been warned to comply with government orders during the immersion event or risk legal consequences. Superintendent Yashodha Vantagodi appealed to all organizers to respect the rules regarding DJ usage and maintain peace during the ceremonies.
This ongoing standoff highlights the tension between cultural traditions and administrative mandates in public celebrations, reflecting the balance authorities strive to maintain for law and order while respecting religious sentiments.
