While the Indian Scientific community is anxiously awaiting the entry of 'Mangalyaan' into the orbit of the red planet on September 24, a cultural outfit here will be offering special prayers on the day for the 'safety' and 'success' of the Mars Orbiter Mission.

'Friends of Trivandrum', a local forum, is planning to conduct 'pooja' and offerings in the name of Mangalyaan at the famous Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple in the heart of the city.

According to Hindu belief, worshipping Lord Ganapathy will remove all obstacles ahead of any endeavour and bring success.

A number of offerings including coconut, lotus, sugarcane and 'unniyappam' (a delicacy) will be offered to the deity on September 24 morning, the outfit's president PKS Rajan said here today.

State Devaswom Minister V S Shivakumar has agreed to be present at the temple on the occasion.

People from various walks of life, including former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan, will also be attending the special 'pooja'.

Rajan said when 'Mangalyaan' susccesfully enters the orbit of Mars, 'payasam' (a delicacy) and sweets would be distributed to people.