Chaturthi, Eid celebrated

PANJIM, SEPT 11
Ganesh festivities began in the State today with pomp and gaiety. It was a day of double festivity as Muslims also celebrated  Eid. 
People welcomed the arrival of Lord Ganesh in their homes with colourful  decorations,  bursting of  fire crackers and prayers  seeking  His blessing for prosperity and  protection  from evil.
Though Ganesh festival is celebrated by Hindus in the State  — their  ways  of  celebrations differ.
Some follow tradition wherein they have celebration  for  a day-and-a-half and Ganesh idol is immersed into the nearest water body on the second day.  Where as at many places  celebration  continues  for five days  and  immersion  takes  place  on the evening of  the fifth day.  
However, more enthusiastic also have Ganesh Chaturthi for seven days and  some  for  nine days.
In the changing times awareness  is growing   to have  environment friendly celebration  by  minimizing  use of fire crackers. 
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB)  had appealed   people  not to buy Plaster of  Paris idols and against causing noise pollution.