RNS: The vibrant and spiritually charged festival of Ganesh Chaturthi has commenced with great enthusiasm across of the country. This ten-day celebration, dedicated to the beloved elephant-headed deity Lord Ganesha, began today with devotees welcoming the idol of the deity into their homes and communities.
The streets and neighborhoods came alive with a riot of colors as devotees carried elaborately decorated idols of Lord Ganesha to local pandals (temporary shrines). These processions were accompanied by traditional music, chanting of hymns, and dancing, creating an atmosphere of joy and devotion.
Ganesh Chaturthi holds immense significance in Hinduism as it marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune. Families and communities across the region have spent weeks preparing for this grand festival, crafting intricate idols and decorating elaborate pandals to house them.
Devotees offered prayers and performed elaborate rituals as they installed the Ganesha idols in their homes and pandals. The ceremonial invocation of Lord Ganesha, known as ‘Pranapratishtha,’ was performed with great reverence, followed by the ‘Shodashopachara Puja,’ which involves sixteen steps of worship.
Devotees offered modak (a sweet dumpling believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite), coconuts, fruits, and other special dishes to seek the blessings of the deity. The ten-day celebration will culminate with the grand immersion of the idols in rivers, lakes, or the sea, symbolizing Lord Ganesha’s return to his heavenly abode.
Local authorities and organizers have made special arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festivities, including security measures to ensure the safety of devotees and the environment. Eco-friendly Ganesha idols made from natural materials have gained popularity in recent years, aligning with the broader global movement toward sustainability.
As the ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival unfolds, it not only brings people closer to their faith but also fosters a sense of unity and communal harmony as devotees from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate the joyous occasion. The resplendent celebrations will continue with cultural programs, music, and dance performances, making Ganesh Chaturthi a truly unforgettable experience for all who partake in it.
In Maharashtra, Ganapati’s Bhajan, Sanskrit Shloka and Ganapati Bappa Morya’s chant can be heard from any corner. Crores of devotees and Lakhs of Ganapati Mandals are worshiping favourite deity Ganapati bappa. Due to the shortage of Pandit ji, many devotees are opting for app, YouTube and other mediums for Ganesh pooja.
This festival will be celebrated from 1 and half day to 11 days in the state. All preparations completed to make Ganesh ji’s favourite Modak. Konkan region prefers Ukadiche Modak while rest of Maharashtra likes fried or khova modak.
