Bhubaneswar: A festive spirit gripped Odisha today as people across the state celebrated Ganesh Puja with devotion and enthusiasm, seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesh, revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and success.

The festival was celebrated with colourful decorations, traditional rituals, devotional songs and cultural programmes at temples, educational institutions and community pandals in both urban and rural areas.

In Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, elaborately decorated pandals featuring beautifully crafted idols of Lord Ganesh drew large gatherings of devotees. Schools and colleges also celebrated the festival with enthusiasm, with students and teachers participating in special pujas and cultural events.

Ganesh Puja holds special significance for students as Lord Ganesh is worshipped as the deity of knowledge and wisdom. Many educational institutions organised prayers seeking blessings for academic success and a bright future.

Community celebrations were also held at several places, with special rituals, cultural programmes and community feasts adding to the festive atmosphere.

Idol makers in Cuttack, Khordha, Puri and Berhampur had been preparing for the festival for several weeks. Their intricately designed idols became a major attraction at several puja venues, reflecting the artistic tradition of Odisha's craftsmen.

Markets across the state also witnessed increased activity as people thronged shops to buy flowers, fruits, sweets and decorative items for the celebrations.

Meanwhile, security arrangements and traffic management measures were strengthened in major towns to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival.