Ganesha Chaturthi festival in Mumbai – in pictures

Boys sit next to finished clay idols of Ganesha. The elephant-headed Hindu god is believed to be a remover of obstacles and a bringer of success Photograph: Rafiq Maqbool/AP

An idol of Ganesha rides in the front seat of a taxi Photograph: Rafiq Maqbool/AP

A large idol on the back of a truck. During the festival, idols of the Hindu deity are worshipped at hundreds of pandals, or makeshift tents, before they are immersed in water Photograph: Divyakant Solanki/EPA

A scooter passenger carrying an idol Photograph: Rafiq Maqbool/AP

Devotees transport an idol on a handcart through the streets of Mumbai Photograph: Divyakant Solanki/EPA

Another golden statue of Ganesha, with a smaller one for the children. The god is also believed to be a patron of science and learning Photograph: Divyakant Solanki/EPA

An idol is carried in the streets by a family Photograph: Divyakant Solanki/EPA

Two boys watch a procession. The Hindu god is also worshipped by some Jains and Buddhists Photograph: Punit Paranjpe/AFP/Getty Images

The statues are decorated with colourful flowers. The festival is celebrated by Hindus across the world but it is most enthusiastically observed in Mumbai and nearby Pune Photograph: Divyakant Solanki/EPA