In a symbolic gathering that precedes the historic shift to the new parliament building, members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha came together for a joint photo session. This event took place in the inner courtyard of the old Parliament House, mere hours before the legislative proceedings were scheduled to relocate to their new abode.
The joint photograph captured the dignitaries representing both houses – the Rajya Sabha and the 17th Lok Sabha. Following this, separate group photos were taken for Rajya Sabha MPs and Lok Sabha members, immortalizing this unique moment in India’s parliamentary history.
Notable figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, graced the premises of Parliament to participate in this memorable occasion. However, during the photo session, a BJP MP, Narhari Amin, experienced a health scare but has since recovered and rejoined the proceedings.
Subsequent to the photo session, a special function is scheduled to take place in the Central Hall of the old Parliament building. This event aims to celebrate the rich legacy of India’s Parliament and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to achieving developed status by 2047.
The transition to the new Parliament building, coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi, signifies a fresh beginning for the functioning of the Indian Parliament. It is a historic moment that underscores India’s commitment to progress and development.
In a parallel development, security personnel at the Parliament building have adopted a new uniform, replacing the traditional safari suits with camouflage pattern clothes, akin to military attire. This change aligns with heightened security measures and modernization efforts.
The Lok Sabha is scheduled to convene at the new building at 1:15 pm, while Rajya Sabha proceedings in its new chamber will commence at 2:15 pm. This marks a significant milestone in India’s parliamentary history as the nation embraces its new legislative edifice.
The auspicious ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival has kicked off in Maharashtra with fervor and devotion. Across the state, homes and pandals have warmly welcomed idols of Lord Ganesh, the deity symbolizing prosperity and wisdom. This festive celebration commenced on September 19, with household Ganesh idols being installed during the preceding night, accompanied by chants of ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya.’
The markets have witnessed a surge in devotees purchasing flowers, puja items, sweets, and decorative items for the occasion. Notable political figures, as well as luminaries from the film and television industry, have enthusiastically embraced Lord Ganesh’s arrival into their abodes.
In Pune, the Ganesh Chaturthi festival began with traditional grandeur, featuring prominent Ganesh mandals leading processions to welcome the deity. These processions were accompanied by the traditional beats of Dhol-Tasha drum troupes, adding to the festive fervor. Mumbai’s renowned GSB Seva Mandal at King’s Circle, renowned for its opulent decorations, is marking its 69th year of celebrations, adorning the idol with an astonishing 66.5 kilograms of gold ornaments, over 295 kilograms of silver, and other precious embellishments. Notably, this year marks the introduction of facial recognition cameras as a security measure, a first for the Mandal.
Security arrangements for the festivities have been robust, with over 13,750 police personnel deployed in Mumbai to ensure a secure environment during Ganesh Chaturthi. Traffic police have issued notifications to facilitate smooth vehicular movement in the city, including restrictions on heavy vehicles on specific days.
One of the key directives is the ban on private buses and heavy vehicles in South Mumbai on designated dates, ensuring safety and convenience during the festive period. Additionally, the police are maintaining a significant presence on immersion day to address any potential law and order issues.
The commencement of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival is met with great enthusiasm, reaffirming its significance in Maharashtra’s cultural tapestry.