India, Sept. 14 -- 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.Odisha News Updates

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...