All you need to know About Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chavithi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated annually for 10 days. Observed in the month of Bhadra (mid-August to September), it commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity. Lord Ganesha is revered as the God of wealth, wisdom, knowledge, and prosperity. Hindus seek his blessings before embarking on any important endeavor to ensure success and good fortune. Let’s get into the brief of Ganesh Chaturthi with Sanatana Journey.

History of Ganesh Chaturthi

Lord Ganesha, also known by names like Heramba, Ekadanta, Ganapati, Vinayaka, and Pillaiyar, holds a significant place in Hindu culture. Ganesh Chaturthi, or Ganesh Puja, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Devotees seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings in religious ceremonies, as he is believed to bring fortune, remove obstacles, and protect against natural calamities.

Revered as the patron god of travelers and the giver of prosperity, Lord Ganesha is depicted with an elephant head on a human body. According to Hindu tradition, he is the beloved son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This festival not only marks his birth but also emphasizes his importance in various aspects of life, symbolizing wisdom, success, and good fortune.

Rituals of Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi, or Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma, reflecting devotion and the rich cultural heritage of India. While the essence of the festival remains constant across the country, each region adds its unique touch, making the celebration even more diverse and meaningful.

1. The festival begins with installing an idol of Lord Ganesha at homes or community spaces. This act symbolizes inviting divine energy into our lives and is performed with sacred rituals and prayers.
2. On the first night, devotees refrain from looking at the moon, as it is believed to bring misfortune. This custom emphasizes humility and respect for tradition.
3. Devotees perform daily rituals, including washing the idol, chanting shlokas, and offering flowers and sweets. The ganesh ji ki aarti symbolizes the light of knowledge dispelling ignorance. Gatherings at temples and public installations bring communities together for collective prayers.
4. Many public celebrations feature devotional performances, including dance, music, and skits, which narrate the stories of Lord Ganesha and the principles of Sanatana Dharma.
5. Modak, Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet, is prepared and offered as prasad. This ritual emphasizes the joy of seva (service) and sharing. Other sweets like laddoo, barfi, and pedha are also distributed.
6. The festival concludes with the visarjan, where the idol is immersed in a water body. This ritual signifies the cycle of creation and dissolution, reminding us of the impermanence of life. Devotees seek forgiveness, express gratitude, and pray for continued blessings.

Food or Prasad during Ganesh Chaturthi

Food plays a significant role in Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, symbolizing devotion and the joy of offering. The most beloved delicacy is Modak, a sweet dumpling filled with jaggery and coconut, considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite. Other offerings include laddoo, barfi, and pedha. These sweets are prepared with devotion and shared as prasad among family and friends.

Devotees typically prepare these dishes at home, emphasizing the values of seva (selfless service) and bhakti (devotion), reflecting the spirit of Sanatana Dharma through culinary traditions.

Destinations to Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi, a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma, offers an unparalleled experience across various Indian destinations. Mumbai offers a grand experience of Ganesh Chaturthi with iconic pandals like Lalbaugcha Raja and Khetwadi Ganraj, showcasing the city’s unmatched festive spirit. In Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra, celebrations are vibrant, featuring renowned idols such as Kasba Ganpati and Kesariwada Ganapathi. Hyderabad is another top destination, where Khairatabad hosts one of the largest Ganesh idols in India. Goa brings a unique charm to the festival with community celebrations that reunite families and friends. For a serene yet festive experience, Ganpatipule’s Swayambhu Ganapati Temple offers a blend of devotion and coastal beauty.

FAQ’s

When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2025?

Ganesh Chaturthi will begin on 27 August 2025 and will continue for 10 days.

Is Ganesh Chaturthi a national holiday?

No, Ganesh Chaturthi is not a national or public holiday. It is a regional holiday as the festival is celebrated in some parts of the country, such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Gujarat.

Is Ganesh Chaturthi a bank holiday?

Yes, Ganesh Chaturthi is a bank holiday in seven states according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the states are Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Telangana, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu.