As the sun rises today, it brings with it a sense of divine energy and an aura of joy to every corner of the country.
Today is Ganesh Chaturthi, a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha - the revered Indian god embodying wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
Ganesh Chaturthi, also referred to as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a ten-day, grand Indian celebration occurring in the months of August or September.
Ganesh Chaturthi takes place on 19 September 2023 this year.
The festival begins with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols at homes and on magnificently decorated public platforms.
The air echoes with the chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya! Pudcho varshi lavkar ya!" urging Lord Ganesha to return sooner next year.
The 'aarti' is heard in every corner, spreading a sense of positivity, unity, and faith.
Friends and families come together, wearing traditional attire, exchanging sweets like 'modak' (Ganesha's favorite), and celebrating the day with dance, music, and drama.
But what makes Ganesh Chaturthi so special? The answer lies in the love, devotion, and faith of millions towards Lord Ganesha.
Tales from Hindu mythology narrate the fascinating story of Ganesha’s birth and his distinctive elephant head.
The son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Ganesha is believed to remove obstacles, bless new beginnings, and grant wisdom to his worshippers.
Moreover, the festival tells a tale of cultural magnificence.
Every region in India celebrates the arrival of their beloved 'Bappa’ with a distinct flavor.
Maharashtra is especially known for its grand-scale Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, while states like Karnataka, Goa, Telangana, Gujarat, and Rajasthan also join the festivities with great enthusiasm.
One of the remarkable aspects of Ganesh Chaturthi is the breathtakingly beautiful and creative idols of Ganesha, ranging from traditional to contemporary, all crafted with devotion.
However, in recent years, ecological concerns have inspired more environmentally friendly celebrations.
Many households and communities have transitioned towards clay idols and sustainable decorations in an effort to contribute to the environment's well-being.
On the tenth day known as 'Anant Chaturdashi’, the festivities reach their peak.
The beautifully adorned idols of Ganesha are taken out in parades with everyone dancing and celebrating before they are immersed in the sea or other bodies of water, an event called 'Ganpati Visarjan'.
As the idol disappears beneath the water, a wave of emotions sweeps the onlookers.
People bid goodbye to their beloved deity, chanting “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudcho varshi lavkar yaa” - a heartfelt plea to Lord Ganesha to return early next year.
This moment of submersion symbolizes a ritual see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking along with him the misfortunes of all mankind.
Ganesh Chaturthi is not merely a religious festival.
It is a social and cultural event that brings people together, irrespective of their background, encouraging a spirit of communal harmony, mutual respect, and love.
Its inclusive nature and sense of shared joy endow it with a unique beauty all of its own.
Today, as we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, let us remember the essence of this beautiful festival.
A day for unity, love, and respect; a day for creativity, positivity, and faith; and most importantly, a day to evoke the divine blessings of wisdom and prosperity from Lord Ganesha!
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!a
Read Also : Celebrating Hindi Diwas 2023
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