Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is one of the most popular and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed God of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festival is celebrated on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.
In 2023, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 19th. The festival begins with the installation of Ganesha idols in homes, temples, and pandals (temporary pavilions). The idols are worshipped for 10 days, with devotees offering prayers, flowers, and sweets. On the 10th day, the idols are immersed in water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and the sea.
Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time for Hindus to celebrate the birth of Lord Ganesha, who is one of the most beloved and revered deities in the Hindu pantheon. Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles, the bestower of wisdom, and the protector of the righteous. He is also invoked before the start of any new venture, as he is believed to bring good luck and success.
Celebrations
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion all over India. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals, vibrant decorations, and enthusiastic celebrations.
Ganesh Sthapana
The installation of the Ganesha idol, known as Ganesh Sthapna, is the first and most important ritual of the festival. The idol is installed in a sacred place in the home or temple, and it is worshipped with great devotion.
Ganesh Puja
Ganesh Puja is the daily worship of Lord Ganesha during the festival period. The puja is performed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to Lord Ganesha, and they chant hymns and mantras in his praise.
Aarti
Aarti is a fire ritual that is performed every evening during the festival. Devotees gather around the Ganesha idol and sing hymns and mantras in his praise. At the end of the aarti, the priest waves a lamp in front of the idol and distributes the flame to the devotees.
Visarjan
On the 10th day of the festival, the Ganesha idol is immersed in a water body. This ritual is known as Visarjan. It symbolizes the return of Lord Ganesha to his abode in Mount Kailash.
How to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi at home
If you are planning to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi at home, here are some things you can do:
- Install a Ganesha idol in a sacred place in your home.
- Decorate the area around the idol with flowers, garlands, and other auspicious items.
- Offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to Lord Ganesha twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Chant hymns and mantras in praise of Lord Ganesha.
- Perform aarti every evening during the festival period.
- On the 10th day of the festival, immerse the Ganesha idol in a water body, such as a river, lake, or the sea.
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time to celebrate the birth of Lord Ganesha and to seek his blessings. It is a time to come together with family and friends and to enjoy the festivities.tuneshareGoogle it
