The ceremonial idols of goddesses Nanda and Sunanda were immersed in the Naini lake after a colourful procession in Nainital on Wednesday. This marked the conclusion of the 115th Nanda Devi Mahotsav.
Devotees participated with enthusiasm in the procession taken out on the occasion. Various cultural aspects including folk dances, people dressed up in costumes as deities and other beings, displays by members of Akhadas and tableaux were part of the procession.
Earlier, with the help of Sri Ram Sevak Sabha, a special worship of goddess Bhagwati was held at the Naina Devi temple during the morning. After Devi Bhog at 12 PM, a colourful procession of goddesses Nanda and Sunanda started from the shrine.
After passing through the market area, the procession reached the Pashan Devi temple near where the devotees emotionally bid farewell to the ceremonial idols of the goddesses by immersing them in the Naini lake.
Adequate number of police personnel had also been deployed in order to ensure security on the occasion. Troupes of folk dancers from various parts of Kumaon region and local musical bands also performed during the procession.