Ganesha Chaturthi

Ganesha Chaturthi is the celebrated with great devotion and ardor. Though Maharashtra is the main region for its celebration but it is observed with great devotion in other states of India also. Maharashtra is the main centre of Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations. People of all communities come together to celebrate this ten days long celebrations of this festival.

Religious meaning of Ganesha Chaturthi: 

 Ganesha Chaturthi is the birthday of Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Ganesha come to earth on his birthday to celebrate it with his devotees. It is believed that Ganesha protects his devotees from any hurdle. Devotees seek his blessings on this day. Ganesha is the god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune.

Date of Ganesha Chaturthi:

Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day in the month of Bhaadrapad. According to Roman calendar, it comes in months of August or September. Celebrations go on for 10 to 11 days. These celebrations of Ganesha Chaturthi end on Ananta Chaturdashi.

Celebrations of Ganesha Chaturthi:

On the occasion of Ganesha Chaturthi, Hindus of all walks, bring home the idols of Lord Ganesha. Besides that, community celebrations are more important on this festival.

Idol of Lord Ganesha are installed to mark the beginning of the festive occasion. All the members of family or the community chant the prayers of Ganpati Bappa Morya in full pitch. ‘Pandals’ where festivities take place are very brightly illuminated and decorated. People dance, sing and eat together.

Small towns of Kumbharwada and Pal are famous for preparing these idols. Traditional craftsmen prepare these sculptures. Idols of Ganesha that are installed on the public places can be 30 to 40 feet high. Tonnes of gold or silver jewelry are used to decorate these idols.

For Ganesha Chaturthi, Modak, a special sweet is prepared as it is favorite dish of Lord Ganesha. These are small dumplings made up of rice flour with desiccated coconut filled inside it.