The elephants, when overjoyed, are in a habit of swaying sideways. Millions of Mumbaikars, followed by their fellow citizens at places like Pune, Kolhapur and other parts of Maharashtra in particular and also some parts of the country dotted by the Maharashtrian population will swell and sway in the finest mood of celebrations for the following full ten days.

Because, the great grand annual re-entry of Lord Ganapati (Ganesh) is scheduled to thomp on the 1st september, 2000. Over the generations, the Ganapati idols of Lalbaug in Mumbai and Dagdu Halwai near Sonya Maruti Chowk in Pune have always captured maximum attraction.

This year, with due consideration for the massive coastal silting taking place at the time of the immersion of thousands of Ganapati idols - small and big - on the day of Anant-Chaturdashi , i. e. the tenth day of the festival and also some other reasons (including ecology), an appeal has been extended to the public for metal idols instead of the clay ones. If coming into effect, this may take off the pomp and show of the immersion processions, which continue through the day and may also extend for the following day, as it always happens at Pune. On the other hand, it may also save some lives being lost.

This also is likely to raise the question of livelihood of many 'Murtikar's (Sculptors) who earn major chunk of their income by their lovely creations of the idols during such festivals. Gradually, if this appeal picks up its social acceptance, 'Vighnaharta' Ganesha (One who removes obstacles) may turn out to be 'Vighnakarta' (Creator of obstacles) for these Murtikars, who will be deprived of utilising their 'Siddhi' (Achievement of skill) in their artistry and also 'Riddhi' (Money or treasure) for their livelihood.

So, Lord Ganapati has to find his way to maintain the faith in the hearts of these endangered small souls. We are sure, He will do it...

Jay Ganesh.