The city police have strongly appealed to committees organising Vinayaka Chavithi celebrations not to publicise ‘annadanam programmes’ through social media reels, cautioning that such publicity could draw crowds far beyond the organisers’ capacity and create difficulties in crowd management and food distribution.
The appeal comes in the wake of an incident at Kobbari Thota on September 19, when thousands of people reportedly turned up for an ‘annadanam’ programme. The organisers were unable to cater adequately to the large crowd. The food distribution was arranged in narrow lanes, leaving inadequate space for the movement and management of devotees.
The large gathering resulted in crowding and pushing among the devotees. The congestion in the narrow lanes, and limited ventilation caused discomfort to some people. The police subsequently registered a case at the II Town Police station in connection with the incident, including against those responsible for publicising the programme.
According to the police advisory, several Vinayaka Navaratri committees in the city are organising annadanam’s over the next two days. The organisers have been asked to make arrangements in advance, particularly ensuring sufficient space for devotees to sit and have food, without causing inconvenience to the public.
The police also cautioned committees organising festival programmes against using excessively loud DJ systems, particularly during evening events, and asked them to ensure that celebrations do not cause inconvenience to residents.
Published – September 25, 2026 10:40 pm IST
