Why Ganesh Chaturthi is Celebrated?
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed God of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Devotees believe that praying to Ganesha during this festival removes obstacles and brings success in life. The festival usually falls in the month of Bhadrapada (August–September) and lasts for 10 days, ending with the grand immersion of Ganesh idols in rivers or seas, known as Visarjan.
Where Ganesh Chaturthi is Celebrated in a Big Way
The festival is celebrated across India, but it is observed in the grandest manner in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
Mumbai turns into a city of celebrations, where towering Ganesh idols like Lalbaugcha Raja draw millions of devotees.
Pune, considered the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is also famous for its community celebrations, music, and processions.
In southern states, the festival is celebrated with equal devotion, with homes and temples beautifully decorated.
Who Celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi
The festival is celebrated by Hindus across India and worldwide, but over time it has become a cultural festival uniting people from all walks of life. Communities, families, and even organizations install Ganesh idols, organize devotional songs, dances, plays, and distribute prasad like the famous modaks—Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet.
More Than Just a Festival
Ganesh Chaturthi is not only about devotion but also about togetherness, art, music, and cultural pride. It was popularized by freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak during India’s independence movement, who turned it into a public celebration to bring people together against British rule. Today, it stands as one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India.
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