by Ashok Kumar
Loyabad witnessed vibrant celebrations for Ganesh Chaturthi, as the Shri Shri Sarvajanik Ganesh Puja Mahotsav at Hanuman Mandir was marked by grand festivities. The temple was adorned with an array of flowers, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the significance of the occasion.
Temple priest Santosh Pandit led the Puja, chanting Vedic mantras with devotion. Key figures in the celebration included Satendra Nonia and his wife, Pratima Kumari, who played pivotal roles in organizing the event.
This year’s celebration highlighted the spirit of unity between different communities in Loyabad. Notably, the entire cost of the festivities was covered by Mohammad Sohrav Ansari, affectionately known as Koka or Sagar Bhai, who is well-regarded within the Chhatis community. In recognition of his generous contribution, Ansari was honored with a traditional turban by the event’s organizing committee.
Ansari, reflecting on the occasion, emphasized the harmonious coexistence of various communities in Loyabad, stating, “Loyabad has always been my home and workplace, where people of all castes and religions live together in harmony. I am grateful for this honor and am always ready to support the committee in any way I can.”
The event was further supported by prominent local figures, including Sagar Nonia, Karu Gupta, Sanjay Thakka, Mukesh Paswan, Dhananjay Rawani, Arvind Rawani, Naveen Rawani, Hrithik Pandey, and Suresh Sharma, among others, who contributed to the success of the celebrations.
