Hyderabad, Sept. 7 -- The city's Ganesh festival is witnessing a new trend even before the idols reach the pandals. What was once largely a quiet affair of bringing the idols into neighbourhoods has now transformed into a grand spectacle, with organisers spending lakhs of rupees on decorations, lighting, crackers, music and elaborate welcome programmes.

Ganesh Aghaman literally refers to the arrival or welcoming of Lord Ganesha's idol into a locality or pandal before the festival begins.

Ganesh Aghaman is fast emerging as an event in its own right, drawing thousands of devotees and attracting political leaders and local public representatives. From colourful arches and towering LED screens to DJ systems, fireworks and decorated vehicles...