Ganesh Chaturthi in 2017: An Auspicious Beginning

Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, will be observed on 25th of August in 2017, as per the Gregorian Calendar. According to the Hindu Calendar, this festival is observed every year on the 4th day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. This day is celebrated to memorialize the birth of Lord Ganesha. He is also known as Ganpati, Vinayaka, Vighnaharta, etc.. On this festive day, devotees observe fast and worship Lord Ganesha. To know more, read on...

Ganesh Chaturthi : Legend Behind Ganesha Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi, according to Hindu Mythology, it is the day which marks rebirth of Lord Ganesha. The legend behind Ganesh Chaturthi is very intense. It is said, that Lord Ganesha was not born, but created by Goddess Parvati. She made an idol of sandalwood paste and brought that idol to life. Accepting the idol as her son, she gave him the responsibility to guard the gate, as she was going to take bath. She ordered her son, that no one should enter the gate. Her son with all the accountability did not let anybody enter the gate, not even Lord Shiva.

Out of anger and without knowing the truth, Lord Shiva attacked Ganesha and severed his head from his body. When Goddess Parvati came out, she was shocked to see her son dead. She told Lord Shiva the truth and in rage, she took the form of Adi Shakti and threatened to destroy the whole world, if she does not get back her son alive. Lord Shiva and other Gods tried to calm her down. It was then, Lord Shiva attached the head of an elephant to Ganesha’s body and brought his son back to life. He gave his son the name ‘Ganesha’. Lord Shiva also blessed his son with the boon that everyone will take his name and worship him before starting any new task. It is believed that Ganesha Chaturthi brings prosperity and happiness. Since then, people celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi as Lord Ganesha’s birthday.

Ganesh Chaturthi : Celebrations Of Ganesh Chaturthi

Celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi are very huge. Especially in Maharashtra, this festival is celebrated as an extravaganza. Here, the celebrations go for a period of ten days. Huge Pandals are set up in different localities. Idol of Lord Ganpati is established in the Pandal while performing Aarti. This is called Ganapati Sthapana. Sweets, coconut, and flowers are offered to the deity. In this way, people welcome Lord Ganesha with open hearts and loud cheers of ‘Ganpati bappa moraya’. Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations also involve musical events and other cultural events like drama and dance performances. Each day begins with addressing Lord Ganesha. Some of these groups, who set-up the pandals, also perform social service. Free lunch is provided to the needy.

Ganesh Chaturthi : The Last day Of Ganesh Chaturthi Festival

On the last day, people bid goodbye to Lord Ganesha. People gather in large groups and perform Aarti. Lord Ganesha’s idol are taken in procession and are then immersed it into a water body. People dance on the beats of Dholak and cheer loudly ‘Ganpati bappa moraya, pudcha varshi laukar ya’. People happily wish him good-bye, with a promise from their great God to come early next year.

Lord Ganesha is worshiped widely by people in India. He brings with him wisdom, prosperity, good-luck, and happiness for his devotees. This festival is celebrated immensely and spectacularly.

We wish you a very Happy Ganesh Chaturthi..!