Ganesh Chaturthi has a special significance in Hindu religion when devotees celebrate this festival with great pomp and bring Bappa home. Preparations have begun across the country to celebrate the grand festival.
The 10-day festival begins on September 6th this year. The festival is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India, especially in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat.
Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the beginning of any new venture, such as starting a business, beginning a journey, or commencing a new job, to remove obstacles and ensure success. His elephant head symbolizes wisdom, and his large ears represent a capacity to listen to others.
The festival brings people together, fostering a sense of community and unity. In Maharashtra, large public celebrations with massive Ganesha idols are common, and the festival is a time for social gatherings, feasts, and cultural activities like music.
Birth of Lord Ganesha: The festival marks the birth of Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, Ganesha was created by Parvati from the dirt of her body and was brought to life to guard her while she bathed. When Shiva, unaware of Ganesha's identity, tried to enter, Ganesha stopped him. Enraged, Shiva beheaded Ganesha, but later, upon Parvati's request, revived him with the head of an elephant.
Symbol of Wisdom and Prosperity: Ganesha is considered the embodiment of wisdom, intellect, and prosperity. His blessings are sought before embarking on any new venture or journey, symbolizing the removal of obstacles and the successful completion of tasks.
Cultural and Social Unity: Ganesh Chaturthi fosters a sense of community and togetherness. It was popularized as a public festival by Bal Gangadhar Tilak during India's struggle for independence, using it as a platform for unity among people and to promote nationalist sentiments against British rule.
Environmental Awareness: Traditionally, idols of Ganesha are immersed in water bodies at the end of the festival. In recent times, there has been a growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices, such as using clay idols and natural colors, to minimize environmental impact.
Spiritual Renewal: The festival is also a time for spiritual renewal. Devotees perform rituals, chant prayers, and sing devotional songs to honor Ganesha, seeking his blessings for peace, prosperity, and the removal of life’s obstacles.
Cultural Practices: The festival includes the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public places, followed by daily prayers, offerings of sweets (especially modaks, Ganesha’s favorite), and processions. The festival usually lasts for 10 days, culminating in the immersion (Visarjan) of the idol in a river or sea, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.
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