Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across the country with great fervor and enthusiasm. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, this celebration marks the god's birthday. Every year, the festival falls in the month of Bhadra (August-September) and the festivities last for 10 days. It is believed that people make sure to bring home an idol of Ganesh, and worship with utmost devotion and love.
On the day of Chaturthi, devotees wake up early and take a holy bath before worshipping the Lord. People visit pandals which are special setups for the occasion. These pandals are beautifully adorned with flowers and vibrant colors and exhibit idols of Lord Ganesha in different poses.
The festival is known for its grand celebrations and zeal with which it is celebrated. People sing hymns and offer flowers decored pooja thalis, along with strings of mango and naivaidyam (prasad). After the puja is over, people take part in communal singing and dancing to the tunes of traditional folk music.
On the tenth day, the idols are taken for a procession around the city. This bouncing procession led by music bands and dhol tasha, passes through several roads before finally reaching a water body or river. There, the idol is immersed in the waters, along with its memories. People believe this act symbolizes Ganesh's return to his abode in the heavenly world.
Ganesh Chaturthi not only brings an abundance of joy and devotion in the atmosphere, but also teaches us to discard our ego and celebrate togetherness. This festival is a reminder that Lord Ganesha is forever with us, watching over us, removing all the obstacles from our lives.
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