Ganesh Chaturthi is considered a special festival of Indian culture. It is celebrated on the Chaturthi of Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapad month. This festival is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is considered to be the god of obstacles, wisdom, prudence and prosperity. Apart from Maharashtra, this festival is celebrated in every part and state of India. Everyone celebrates this festival with great pomp and show.
Birth Stories and Religious Context
Ganesh Chaturthi is also important because on this day Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s son Shri Ganesh was born. According to religious stories, Mother Parvati made an idol from her paste and breathed life into it.Upon mother’s request, Shri Ganesh started protecting her at the door of the house. When Lord Shiva returned home, Shri Ganesh refused to let him in. Then Lord Shiva got angry and cut off his head. When Goddess Parvati came to know about this, she became very sad. Then Lord Shiva put the head of a baby elephant on Ganesh Ji and gave him a new life. And gave him the boon that from today onwards, Ganesh will be worshipped first or else the worship will be in vain.
Origin of The Festival and its Tradition
Ganesh Chaturthi festival is celebrated for 10 days. On the first day, ‘Pran Pratishtha’ puja is performed along with the installation of the idol of Lord Ganesha. Due to which the infinite power of all the gods and goddesses resides in the idol. From this day onwards, special puja, aarti and prasad are organized every day for 10 days. This festival is special and a festival of joy for children, youth and elders.
Some Important Traditions
- Installation of clay idol of Lord Ganesha
- Aarti ‘Mantra Uccharan’ every morning and evening
- Offering modaks, laddus, durva, and other favourite delicacies to the Lord
- Organizing cultural programs, music, dance and drama competitions
Incorporation of Immersion Emotions
The 10th day of Ganesh Chaturthi is called ‘Anant Chaturdashi’ which is the most emotional day. On this day, the idol of Lord Ganesha is taken for immersion in a grand procession with lots of dancing, singing and fanfare. It is immersed in a river, sea or pond and a wish is made for his return early next year.
Message of Celebration
Ganesh Chaturthi brings faith, positivity, curiosity in life. In the end it is said that Ganesh Chaturthi is not only a religious festival but it is considered as a festival of belief, love, happiness and unity.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi