New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished citizens on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi on Friday.

PM Narendra Modi said in a tweet, "May this auspicious occasion bring happiness, peace, fortune and good health to everyone's life. Ganpati Bappa Morya!".

President Ram Nath Kovind wished people on the occasion and urged everyone to follow Covid-19 protocols, which have been put in place across the country.

President Kovind said in a tweet, “Ganpati Bappa Morya! Warm wishes to all the countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. I wish that Vighnaharta Ganesha makes our efforts against Covid-19 successful and blesses everyone with happiness and peace.”

“Come, let us all follow Covid rules while celebrating the festival,” the President also said.

Covid-19 restrictions have dampened the spirit of the festival that used to be a celebration of colourful processions, crackers, music and fervour. A temple priest in Delhi says, "We are following the guidelines of Delhi Government and will not take out the annual procession that is organised in a grand manner."

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said, "We are organising 'Ganesh Pujan' programme at 7 pm today that, I hope, will be telecast on all TV channels. I request all people to watch grand programme with their children".

In Mumbai, the police have barred the assembly of five or more persons in the city citing COVID-19 rules. According to reports, Section 144 of the criminal procedure code will remain imposed on the city between September 10 to 19.