Pune: The immersion processions grabbed the attention of foreigners and expats as well - who donned in traditional Maharashtrian attire and actively participated in the visarjan on Tuesday.

Puneites are no strangers to citizens from other countries mingling with the locals during visarjan. Many foreigners working or studying in Pune do not miss a chance to be part of this cultural extravaganza. 

Joesph had come to Pune from New York in 2015 as a freelancer and studies Maharashtrian culture in Pune and across the State. 

“I have been attending the immersion procession from my first year here. The vibrant atmosphere that is created by the dhol-tasha troupes and people decked up in Maharashtrian style is what attracts me to this place. I have been filming these processions since the first year and every year, I find the same enthusiasm in making this a grand procession,” said Joseph.

A group of 20 foreign nationals including girls dressed in nine yard sarees and wearing a nose pin, boys in kurta-pajama and Gandhi cap were part of the Rotary Club of Sinhagad and they danced to the beats of dhol-tasha.

“It is not easy to carry the saree because it is draped in a different style and the jewellery is something we are not used to wearing but still we are loving it. The vibrancy resonated here in the procession, energy in the crowd and the players of dhol-tasha is helping us bear the heat and discomfort. We are enjoying it,” said Llora who has come here on student exchange programme from Brazil.

Ainhoa from Spain came to Pune through student exchange programme and studies at Fergusson College. She said, “I knew about Lord Ganesh but I was unaware about this festival. I have been pandal hopping from day one to experience this beautiful festival. The atmosphere was exuberant and the performance of dhol-tasha was a treat to the eyes. However, I found it a bit loud and noisy.”