Ganesh Chaturthi, one of Hinduism's most widely celebrated festivals, commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha. Pics/Atul Kamble
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 will be celebrated on September 7. The event, also known as Vinayak Chaturdashi, is distinguished by complex rituals, lively celebrations, and profound spiritual importance
Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada
In 2024, the festival will begin on September 7 and last for ten days, culminating in Anant Chaturdashi, when the statue of Lord Ganesha is submerged in water, signalling the end of the festivities
Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is known as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the god of intelligence and intellect
Devotees seek his blessings before beginning on new endeavours, making this festival a time for success, peace, and prosperity
It draws communities together to celebrate, overcoming social and economic barriers. The splendour of the event, especially in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, demonstrates a shared spirit of devotion and cultural pride
The festivities begin with the placement of a clay idol of Lord Ganesha in houses, temples, and public pandals (temporary constructions)
Throughout the 10-day festival, devotees conduct daily pujas (worship) with devotion and reverence. The ceremonies involve chanting Vedic hymns, reciting the Ganapati Atharvashirsha, and offering goods such as modaks (sweet dumplings), coconut, jaggery, durva grass, and red flowers, all of which are popular with Lord Ganesha
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