50th blog dedicated to Ganesh Chaturthi: A Joyful Start to the Indian Festival Season

Ganpati festival, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is a widely celebrated Hindu festival in India and by Indian communities around the world. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.

Ganesh chaturthi is celebrated widely through these 10 days. This year it will start from 19th sept till 28th sept.(Image credit: iStocks)

Here is the history of how the celebration of ganesh chaturthi started:

Ancient Origins:

References to Ganesha can be found in various Hindu scriptures, including the Rigveda and the Puranas. Ganesha is revered as the god of wisdom, prosperity, and the remover of obstacles.

 

Rise in Popularity:

The public celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in a grand manner began during the Maratha Empire in the 17th century.

 

Peshwa Era:

During the Peshwa rule in Maharashtra in the 18th century, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations became more organized and elaborate.

 

British Influence:

The British colonial rulers attempted to suppress public gatherings and festivals. However, the devotion of the people for Lord Ganesha remained strong, and the festival continued in a more subdued form within homes.

 

Revival and Reform:

Indian freedom fighters saw it as an opportunity to bring people together and foster a sense of unity and nationalism.

 

Lokmanya Tilak's Contribution:

In the late 19th century and early 20th century, he encouraged people to celebrate the festival in a grand and public manner as a means of fostering unity and patriotism. This move helped revive the festival and make it a major public celebration.

 

Post-Independence:

After India gained independence in 1947, Ganesh Chaturthi continued to evolve. It became not only a religious and cultural event but also a platform for social and environmental awareness.

 

Here is the process of how Ganpati days are being celebrated:

Idol Installation:

The festivities begin with the installation of clay or eco-friendly idols of Lord Ganesha in homes or public pandals (temporary structures). The installation is usually performed on the first day of the festival.

 

Prayers and Offerings:

This includes chanting of bhajans (devotional songs) and recitation of prayers. Devotees offer flowers, sweets (especially modak, considered Ganesha's favourite), coconuts, fruits, and various other items as a sign of devotion.

 

Aarti:

The Ganesh Aarti, a special prayer dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is performed multiple times a day.

 

Visiting Pandals:

People visit public pandals to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

 

Cultural Programs:

Cultural events, including music and dance performances, are organized in various places during the festival. These programs add to the festive atmosphere and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India.

 

Community Participation:

Ganpati festival is a community event, and people often come together to celebrate.

 

Processions:

On the last day of the festival, the idol of Lord Ganesha is taken in a grand procession through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music, dance, and the enthusiastic participation of devotees.

 

Visarjan (Immersion):

The immersion of the Ganesha idol is one of the most emotional moments of the festival. The idol is carried to a river, lake, or the sea, and devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesha.

 

Environmental Awareness:

Many people opt for clay idols and natural materials to minimize the environmental impact of the festival. Efforts are made to reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pollutants in the immersion process.

 

Charity and Social Initiatives:

Some devotees use the occasion to engage in charitable activities and community service, such as distributing food to the needy or supporting social causes.

 

Here are some of the main points for celebrating ganesh chaturthi:

Worship of Lord Ganesha:

Ganpati festival is primarily dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the god of wisdom, prosperity, and the remover of obstacles.

 

Symbol of Unity and Togetherness:

The communal worship and celebration foster a sense of unity, brotherhood, and social harmony. It transcends social, economic, and caste barriers, promoting a sense of belonging and shared cultural identity.

 

Cultural Celebration:

The festival includes traditional music, dance, art, and other cultural performances that highlight the diversity and vibrancy of Indian culture.

 

Historical and Nationalistic Significance:

Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak used it as a platform to promote nationalism and inspire unity among the masses. Ganpati festival became a symbol of resistance against colonial rule and an assertion of Indian culture and identity.

 

Family Bonding:

Ganpati festival provides an opportunity for members to come together, perform rituals, and strengthen family bonds.

 

Art and Creativity:

Skilled artisans and devotees invest their creativity and artisanship in making the idols and pandals, making it a celebration of artistic expression.

 

Philanthropy and Social Initiatives:

Some devotees distribute food, provide medical camps, and support various social causes, demonstrating the spirit of giving.

 

Cultural Exchange:

Ganpati festival has transcended borders, and its celebration has spread to various parts of the world. It serves as a means of cultural exchange, introducing people from diverse cultures to Indian traditions and spirituality.