The movement of idols marked the beginning of the final preparations for one of Mumbai’s most widely celebrated festivals. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

The Parel area, known for its long association with Mumbai’s Ganesh idol-making tradition, witnessed increased activity as devotees arrived to collect their idols. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

As towering Ganpati idols made their way to their respective pandals, devotees along the route gathered on roadsides and balconies of nearby buildings to catch a glimpse of their favourite deity. (PIC/SHADAB KHAN)

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with considerable enthusiasm across Mumbai, with thousands of households and public mandals installing idols of Lord Ganesha. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

Public pandals begin preparations weeks in advance, with decorations, lighting and thematic installations taking shape across neighbourhoods. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

The days leading up to the festival also see heightened activity among idol makers, transporters, mandal organisers and volunteers. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

Large idols require careful handling during transportation, with organisers often using specially arranged vehicles and teams of volunteers to move them through Mumbai’s busy streets. (PIC/ SHADAB KHAN)

Meanwhile, members of the Nawab Manjil Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal were seen carrying the Kandivali Cha Moreshwar Ganesh idol along the Western Express Highway in Mumbai's Jogeshwari East, as preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi gathered pace across the city. (PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE)

The devotees moved slowly along the busy stretch while carefully transporting the idol to its destination. (PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE)

The sight added to the growing festive activity in Mumbai ahead of the much-awaited Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. (PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE)