Talcher has always been in the limelight for its coal mines. But that apart, the coal city has created a distinction in art and culture as well.
Come the Ganpati season and the dusty city will emerge all clean and sparkle with scores of Ganesh tableaux. For, the Ganesh Puja is celebrated with all gusto here.
This year, more than 75 Puja Pandals have been erected across the city. The decorations with colorful lights, gates and mina bazars have lent a lively spirit to the festive season.
lord Ganpati was welcomed by various Puja Committees on September 5. As per the decision of the central puja committee, this time the festival will go on for 14 days. The immersion of the idols is scheduled to be held on September 18. The procession ceremony has always kept the memories afresh symbolizing the spirit of vigor and energy. This year too, the procession ceremony would start from the Bada danda sahi of Talcher at around 9 am and move towards Brahmani river through the heart of the city.
The central puja committee is headed by Sub-Collector Shyama Bhakta Mishra as its president. And, its members include the Sub-Divisional Police Officer, IIC and BDO of Talcher and the Executive Officer of Talcher Municipality. Every effort is made by the Talcher administration to ensure smooth and peaceful celebrations.
SDPO Kailash Chandra Parida said six platoons of armed police, 108 constables and 153 home guards have been deployed to maintain law and order. The security provisions are monitored by two DSPs, one ASP and seven inspectors.
Meanwhile, thousands of people from Talcher and all nearby areas visited the town to enjoy the festival.