Hyderabad’s old city turns festive as Balapur Ganesh passes through

Hyderabad’s old city, came alive on Saturday (September 6, 2025) as the Balapur Ganesh procession made its way through the narrow lanes and iconic landmarks. Drums, chants and conches filled the air as the massive idol rolled past the Charminar at about 2.30 p.m., drawing curious onlookers onto balconies and shopfronts.

The grand spectacle, known for marking the finale of the Ganesh festivities, moved steadily before halting at the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS). The pause allowed several smaller idols from nearby localities to pass, while police marshals coordinated movements to clear the way for the larger convoy to continue towards Tank Bund for immersion.

Residents lined the streets, with many recording the moment on their phones while others offered coconuts and flowers. The roads, often choked with traffic, turned into an open stage of sorts, as the procession was carried forward filled music, colour and fervour.

Security arrangements by Hyderabad police were tight, with personnel deployed across key junctions and crowd-control measures ensuring that the procession unfolded without incident. Barricades were in place, drone surveillance kept an eye from above, and traffic diversions allowed the flow to remain largely unhindered.