In Ahmedabad, Gujarat, a city known as Behrampura, an idol of Ganpati and its pandal went viral on social media with a very unusual background as a tribute to the Air India crash causalities, which led to the death of 242 persons. The setuphas taken the attention of devotees, locals, and social media enthusiasts worldwide, triggering a mix of wonder, curiosity, and controversy.
The imagery of the Ganpati pandal depicts Ganpati Bappa having a comfortable rest alongside a well-made model of a plane crash, much like the images from the Ahmedabad Air India tragedy that hit the nation very badly.
Mixed Reactions Among Devotees
Reaction to this installation of Air India Plane pandal has been highly polarized. Some worshippers and guests complimented the organizers for being very innovative, contending that religion and art may be used to create awareness on actual issues. They believed that the use of a religious symbol along with a somber reminder of human frailty could invoke contemplation over safety, accountability, and strength. Numerous young clients also appreciated the organizers for stepping out of the usual theme for the decorations.
They contended that Ganesh Chaturthi should represent joy, good tidings, and divine blessings but not catastrophe and sorrow. Others went to the extent of questioning if such experiments were an affront to the sanctity of religious festivals.
Also Read: India Responds to Report of ‘Wrong Bodies’ Sent After Air India Crash
Organizers Defend the Theme
The Behrampura pandal organizers, however, remained adamant in their decision. In their defense, they explained that the theme was not meant to shock or sensationalize but to sensitize. The installation, in the opinion of the committee spokesperson, represents the call for more emphasis on security and the need to learn a lesson from tragedies. “Lord Ganesha represents wisdom and reflection.”
They also emphasized that they never intended to offend religious sentiments but to utilize the platform of a highly celebrated festival to trigger worthwhile discussions.
Also Read: Fuel Cut, Panic in Cockpit: 5 New Shocking Details from Air India Crash Investigation
Art, Faith, and Boundaries
The Behrampura idol again brings to the fore the question of how religious festivals must experiment with tragedy or modern themes. But combining disaster with worship appears to take the experimentation a little too far.
For the time being, however, the idol keeps drawing massive crowds, and not just for darshan, but to see the quirky concept for themselves. The Behrampura Ganpati has exceeded expectations and become one of the most discussed installations of this festival season, and whether lauded for its originality or condemned for its lack of sensitivity, no one can deny it.
Also Read: Pilot Error or Fuel Switch Failure? Air India Crash Probe Deepens
