THOUSANDS of Hindus are expected at the fourth Ganapati Visarjan ceremony being staged on Shoebury’s East Beach.

Saturday’s ceremony marks Ananta Chaturdashi, the birthday of the Hindu god of fortune, Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed god.

His birthday is one of Hinduism’s most sacred events and is India’s largest public celebration.

John Lamb, Southend councillor responsible for enterprise, tourism and regeneration, said: “I am delighted to welcome our Hindu guests to Southend.

“Southend’s Hindu community has pulled out all the stops to make sure it will be as vibrant as any of the festivals held in India.”

Organised by the Shree Jalaram Seva Trust, the celebration is thought to be the largest outside India.

Up to 4,000 people will be dressed in brightly coloured clothes and take part in traditional dancing.

Members of the trust will play drums and other instruments while a prayer tent will provide some space for anyone who wishes to pray or join in with religious chanting.

The free festival starts at 11am and lasts until around 4.30pm, but many idols, including one portraying Lord Ganesh, will be dipped in the sea at high tide, expected at 6pm.

The festival is open to people of all faiths, and families are particularly welcome.